The management (Eddie & Jackie Nelson) and the support staff of Nelson’s Funeral Home of Ridgeway regretfully announce the passing of Mr. Clinton Darrell Campbell, 80, of Columbia, South Carolina. Mr. Campbell passed Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
In lieu of flowers the family respectfully ask that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity.
A gathering will take place Sunday, December 7, 2025, 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Nelson’s Funeral Home 270 North Dogwood Ave. Ridgeway, South Carolina.
Burial will be held Monday, December 8, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, Columbia, South Carolina.
Mr. Clinton Darrell Campbell, 80, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025. He was born on January 24, 1945, in Huxley, Texas, and grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana, and Center, Texas. Darrell was lovingly raised by his maternal grandparents, John and Annie Laurie Permenter, along with his aunts, Jean Jennings and Francis Collum, whose guidance and care shaped the values that remained central throughout his life.
Darrell was a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned both his bachelor’s degree in architecture in 1968 and master’s degree in urban planning in 1970. While at Texas A&M, he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and was one of the creators of the International Film Club, reflecting an early enthusiasm for the arts and global culture. He later continued his education by earning a Master of Business Administration degree from The Citadel, Charleston SC in 1984.
Following his graduation from Texas A&M, Darrell was commissioned in the US Air Force where he served as a civil engineer, primarily at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, DC. Following his active-duty commitment, Darrell worked as the lead architect in the early development of the Bald Head Island resort in North Carolina. He then worked as an architect for the Navy Facilities Engineering Command in Charleston and culminated his career as technical director of the Air Force Civil Engineer Center in San Antonio, TX. Darrell continued to serve as a civil engineer in the Air Force Reserve, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.
A devoted volunteer, Darrell gave generously of his time to Habitat for Humanity, helping provide safe and stable housing for families in need. He was also deeply involved in the arts community. Darrell served as a docent at the Columbia Museum of Art, where he enjoyed sharing his love of art and creativity with visitors, and as a docent at the Sundance Film Festival, a role he cherished for its celebration of film and storytelling. His daily walks at Columbia’s Canal and Riverfront Park provided quiet reflections of these things he loved. His passion for learning extended into literature, and he took great pleasure in attending author events featuring writers such as Pat Conroy, Joyce Carol Oates, and James Dickey.
Darrell traveled extensively throughout his life. He worked on a historic church restoration project in France and made memorable trips to Egypt and across Europe, with Venice holding a special place in his heart. He treasured his friendships and generously lent his skills to friends’ projects, including restoring a historic trolley and assisting with the renovation of a Washington, D.C. townhouse. Darrell formed deep and lasting relationships and was known for his reliability, warmth, and willingness to help others.
Above all his achievements, Darrell’s greatest joy and purpose was being a father. He devoted himself wholeheartedly to his children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, supporting their dreams, and providing a steady, loving presence in their lives.
Darrell is survived by his daughter, Lisa Southworth, her husband, Edward, and their sons, Campbell and Thaddeus; and by his grandson Clark, son of his late son Joshua, who passed away in July 2025. He is also survived by his former wife, Betty, and her husband, Bruce, with whom he maintained warm and supportive ties. Darrell leaves behind extended family and many dear friends who will always remember his kindness, generosity, and enduring love.