Judith "Judy" Shotwell Vick

 

Judith Shotwell Vick, affectionately known as Judy, wife of Bingham Lafayette Vick, Jr., passed away on Saturday, October 7th, 2023, following a tragic choking accident.

Born on June 19th, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia, the daughter of the late Nathan Randolph and Margaret Proctor Shotwell, she graced the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her. In addition to her parents, Judy is preceded in death by her sister, Mary Shotwell.

Her remarkable journey started at Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she met the love of her life, Bing.  Judy pursued a major in history at Wake Forest University, class of 1966. It was here that she delved into the rich tapestry of history and emerged with a bachelor's degree that served as a testament to her intellectual curiosity and tenacity.

Judy’s warmth and kindness were undeniable. As a loving wife, she shared an unbreakable bond with her soulmate throughout their journey together. Their love story was one for the ages, filled with compassion and unwavering support for one another. The profound connection they shared was an inspiration to all who knew them.

Judy and Bing were high school sweethearts, they spent their lives growing up together. Master gardener, gourmet cook, and perfect hostess, she welcomed 40 years of Furman Singers and countless Greenville Chorale members and supporters into their lives. She was a faithful choir singer during Bing’s 28 years directing the Westminster Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Choir.  Dedicated music lover, Judy was Bing’s strongest supporter and fiercest critic. Bing relied faithfully on her perspectives in music and in life. Avid travelers, they explored the world together, making memories and becoming global citizens. Through their generosity, Judy and Bing have contributed to the growth of Furman University’s Music

Department, Judy’s alma mater Wake Forest University, and the greater Greenville community. Judy was extraordinary and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Beyond her role as a devoted partner, Judy embraced a multitude of passions in life. Immersed in the art of cooking, she delighted in crafting delectable dishes infused with love and creativity.

She loved entertaining students and friends in her home with delightful dinner parties. Her culinary skills were widely lauded and celebrated by those fortunate enough to savor her meals. In fact, Judy's expertise extended beyond her own kitchen; she generously shared her knowledge by teaching cooking classes to the students of Furman University, leaving a lasting culinary legacy. A woman of innate charm and charisma, Judy had a flair for entertaining. Her gatherings were opportunities for joy and connection, where laughter filled the air and memories were formed. She effortlessly weaved together conversations, ensuring that everyone felt welcomed and embraced in her presence. With a genuine interest in others and an infectious laugh, she had an extraordinary ability to uplift spirits and create lasting bonds.

Judy had a deep passion for music that spanned over 40 years. She dedicated herself to the Furman Singers,  leaving an indelible mark on their tours and performances here and abroad. Through her unwavering commitment, she elevated the emotional resonance of every song they performed together. The memories she created with the Furman Singers will forever be treasured by those fortunate enough to have been touched by their collective art.  Many of those (her “Furman Singers children”) have mentioned that Judy and Bing were the ideal model for a happy marriage.

Nature and vegetable and flower gardening held a special place in Judy's heart, particularly flowers. Among all the blossoms that adorned her life, orchids held a cherished spot. Over the years, she lovingly nurtured these delicate flowers in the greenhouse specially constructed by her doting husband. Perhaps it was in this nurturing act that we witnessed the essence of who Judy was—a caretaker, not only for beautiful blooms but for all those she held dear.

Judy and Bing just recently moved into The Woodlands at Furman, where they have been warmly welcomed.
Married in 1967, Judy and Bing were blessed with each other, with many friends, and a wonderful journey through life, 56 years together.

A Service of Memory and Celebration will be held on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. in the Charles E. Daniel Chapel on the campus of Furman University.

The service will be live-streamed and can be viewed by clicking here.

In lieu of flowers, (Judy always said she wanted to enjoy her flowers during her life) memorials may be made to    the “Nathan R. and Margaret P. Shotwell Scholarship in History” fund at Wake Forest University, Office of Gift Planning, P.O. Box 7227, Winston-Salem, NC 27109, 

Or the Greenville Chorale (greenvillechorale.org) or mail to Greenville Chorale, P.O. Box 16851, Greenville SC 29606.

Or the “Judith and Bingham Vick Student Conductor of Furman Singers Scholarship” fund at Furman University, Furman University Office of Planned Giving, 3300 Poinsett Hwy, Greenville SC 29613

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.