Ouida Carrington

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Ouida Sue Wakefield Carrington announces her passing on March 31, 2026, at the age of 72.

Born on April 16, 1953 in Norfolk, VA, Ouida built a life centered around her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a joyful grandmother who cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren. Those closest to her knew her as someone who valued family gatherings and the relationships that meant the most to her, especially the deep and lasting love she shared with her husband of 50 years, her college sweetheart.

She worked for 35 years as a special education teacher including 26 years with the Effingham County School System, making a lasting difference for hundreds of students.

Many will remember Ouida for her steady presence, her generosity, her trademark laugh, and her enduring sense of humor which she carried with her through the years and shared easily with others. She maintained a quiet personal faith in Christ throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her father, Olis Wakefield; her mother, Nina Wakefield; her brother, Douglass Wakefield; and her sister, Ianna Wakefield.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Bruce Carrington; her children, Jaime Szahun (Todd), Adam Carrington (Dana), and Paul Carrington (Amy); her grandchildren, Nathaniel Archer, Benjamin Archer, Elias Carrington, Ianna Carrington, Abram Carrington, E.J. Carrington, Ella Szahun, Alek Szahun, Charlotte Szahun, Liv Szahun, and Adam Szahun; and her siblings, Gail Tompkins (Tom), Jayme Melofchik (Neil), William Wakefield, and Elizabeth Gray (Mike).

A visitation will be held at New Providence Baptist Church, Guyton, two hours prior to the funeral service. The funeral service will begin at 4pm on April 11th. There will be no graveside service.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel (912) 754-6421