William T. Elliott was educated in the Columbia public schools, receiving an A.B. from Davidson College in 1923, where he captained the tennis team, and an LL.B. from the University of South Carolina Law School in 1926. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and taught English while studying law at the University of South Carolina. He married Mildred Gibbes and they had a son and a daughter.
He practiced law for several years and, in 1932, became an instructor at the University of South Carolina Law School. He later was promoted to an associate and then full professor. He taught twelve different courses over the years and excelled at criminal law and domestic relations.
His keen intellect and careful study reduced complex legal doctrines to simple rules and definitions. His sense of drama and flashing wit made his classes sparkle and his courses interesting without sacrificing substance.
He had the greatest affection for his students, and they for him, their friend, confident, advisor and teacher.
His life furthered the great goals and principles of the law.