Ella Mae VanLoan Woodruff, 89, of West Columbia, wife of the late Donald James Woodruff, passed away Thursday, September 24, 2020. Born July 19, 1931 in Elmira, New York, she was the daughter of the late Edward A. and Uarda Davie VanLoan. Ella obtained a BS Degree from Geneseo State University and taught in South Carolina public schools until her retirement. She served as chairperson of Lexington District 4 School Board, was a reader for SCETV radio, volunteered for Clemson Extension as a Master Waste Educator, and was a Cub Scout leader. She enjoyed reading, sewing, walking, traveling and recycling. Ella loved her family dearly and cherished the time she spent with them. She instilled the importance of family to all she met. Ella was a member of Beulah United Methodist Church and a former member of Congaree Presbyterian. She was a Sunday school teacher and made two mission trips when in her 80’s. Ella is survived by three daughters, Karen Woolsey (Donald Jr.) of Gilbert, Kathleen Woodruff of Gilbert and Kristine Sasser (Aaron, Sr.) of Monetta; a son Kurt Woodruff (Jeannie) of Lexington; 6 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Connie Crooker. The family would like to thank all of the caregivers and staff at Colonial Gardens for the care and attention provided to their mother. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, September 26 at Thompson Funeral Home Lexington with the Rev. Tony Rowell officiating. The family will greet friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Beulah United Methodist Church, 161 Beulah Church Road ​Gilbert, SC 29054 or Boys and Girls Club of America, 500 Gracern Rd, Columbia, SC 29210. Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington is assisting the Woodruff family.