Ellen Harrell

Ellen Stancil Harrell, 91, of Saratoga, died Tuesday, October 28, 2014.

Funeral, Saturday, 2 PM, Wilson Memorial Service followed by a time of visiting and sharing. Interment, Evergreen Memorial Park.

She was preceded in death by her husband, J. Preston Harrell, in 1993. Ellen was born January 31, 1923, in Johnston County to Charles Benton and Florence Samworth Stancil. She lived a few years in Clayton before moving with her family to Wilson where she attended public schools. During this time she was especially close to her sister, Mildred, who is just one year older. A year after graduating from Charles L. Coon High School, she met Preston and married him two months later on December 21, 1941. Theirs was the classic story of city girl marrying country guy. He was a farmer and Ellen knew nothing about farming. She quickly adapted to rural life however and became an excellent farmer's wife.

In addition to housework, she was mother to four children, helped keep farm accounts, gardened, raised chickens, cooked for workers and assisted in all aspects of farm production. She encouraged her children's varied activities as a grade mother, den mother, Bible School teacher, 4-H volunteer and booster club member. She made sure that her children always attended Sunday School and church. After the children graduated from college, Ellen and Preston enjoyed travel and time with friends. Ellen read widely, was an avid bridge player and great cook. Pets were special to her. Within the family she was known for Sunday night suppers and holiday gatherings. Ellen was proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took pride in their accomplishments and expanding numbers. A member of the Saratoga Christian Church, she loved the church and all its members.

A special word of thanks is extended to Brionda Rivera, Donna Virgil and Nell Thorpe for their care and devotion during her very senior years.

She is survived by her daughter, Judy Batten (Colin) of Saratoga; sons, James P. "Jimmy" Harrell, Jr. (Janice) of Maury, Phillip "Phil" Harrell (Brenda) and William "Bill" Harrell (Cathy) of Saratoga; grandchildren, Jay Harrell (Michelle) of Wilson, Mike Harrell of Columbia, SC, Nan Vinson (Toby) of Greensboro, Lori Martinez (Carlos) of Charlotte, Kelly Batten (Milisa) of Durham, Burt Batten (Cathleen) of Cary, Katie Harrell of Wilson, Leigh Harrell of Wilson, Amanda Harrell of Saratoga, Lauren Brennan (Jason) of Apex, Charlie Harrell (Courtney) of Saratoga and David Harrell (Megan) of Saratoga; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters, Mildred Rogers of Wilson and Barbara Ford of Dobson and brother, Fred Stancil of Farmville. A sister, Priscilla Williams, died sometime ago.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Saratoga Christian Church, PO Box 395, Saratoga, NC 27873-0395 or to Alzheimers NC, 1305 Navaho Dr, Ste 101, Raleigh NC 27609-7448.