News Summary
The community of Blythewood is mourning the passing of Kellie Tisdale Sauls, a dedicated nurse and paralegal, who peacefully died at her home. Kellie, remembered for her compassion and service in both nursing and law, leaves behind her husband and children, along with a sizable family and many friends. Funeral services will honor her memory and contributions to the community.
Blythewood, South Carolina – The community is mourning the loss of Kellie Tisdale Sauls, a dedicated nurse and paralegal, who passed away peacefully at her home on May 3, 2025, at the age of 55.
Kellie, born to George “Butch” and Glenda Tisdale on August 21, 1969, in Sumter, South Carolina, was raised in nearby Chapin. She graduated from The University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in humanities and social services. Pursuing further education, she became certified as a paralegal after attending the National Center for Paralegal Training in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her professional journey began in the legal field, where she worked as a paralegal for the Richland County Solicitor’s Office, Criminal Defense Attorney Jack Swerling, and the South Carolina Senate for eight years. Kellie developed a strong interest in nursing after working on a notable case involving Shaken Baby Syndrome, which brought her into contact with medical records and the medical community.
In December 2002, Kellie earned her associate’s degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College and began her nursing career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Palmetto Health-Richland. She dedicated 11 years to the NICU, showcasing her commitment to caring for vulnerable infants. Kellie later transitioned to NICU case manager positions for health insurance providers Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Healthcare.
In 2019, she returned to a clinical nursing role, becoming the school nurse at Killian Elementary School, where she served for six years. Known affectionately as “Nurse Sauls,” her compassion and dedication left a lasting impact on the students and staff at the school.
Kellie Tisdale Sauls was a beloved member of her family. She is survived by her husband, James “Jimmy” Robert Sauls, and their two children, Emma and Jay Sauls. She is also survived by her parents, George “Butch” and Glenda Tisdale, a sister, Beth Drafts and husband Ryan of Evans, GA, a brother, Chris Tisdale and wife Amanda of Chapin, SC, in addition to nine nieces and nephews, a loving extended family, and many friends.
Kellie had previously faced personal tragedy with the loss of her younger brother, George H. Tisdale III. Despite this, she remained a source of support and love for her family and community.
A funeral service was held in her honor at 12 p.m. on May 10, 2025, at Chapin Christian Community Church located at 415 Lexington Avenue, Chapin, SC 29036. Friends and family were welcomed as guests starting at 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. In accordance with Kellie’s wishes, memorial contributions can be made through a scholarship fund established in her name.
Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, assisted the family with arrangements during this difficult time.
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Additional Resources
- Shives Funeral Home: Kellie Tisdale Sauls Obituary
- Wikipedia: Nursing
- The Columbia Star: Pastor of Northminster Presbyterian Retires
- Google Search: Kellie Sauls
- The Columbia Star: VP of Human Resources Speaks to Columbia Rotary Club
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nursing
- The Columbia Star: Ali Bradley Crowned USA National Talented Miss 2014
- Google News: Kellie Sauls
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CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
