Celebrating the Life of Marie Elleby, 97, A Pillar of Faith and Family“A Life of Faith, Family, and Service unto the Lord”

Marie Elleby, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother,

great-great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, entered into everlasting rest on October 19, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on August 30, 1928, in Barnesville, South Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of a Buffalo Soldier and minister, a foundation that planted deep roots of faith, courage, and purpose within her.

As a young girl in Bradenton, Florida, Marie gave her heart to Christ at just nine years old, a holy commitment that guided every step of her nearly century-long journey. Later moving to Seattle, she worked diligently at Rhodes Department Store for 17 years and then served with excellence at Harborview Medical Center for 22 years. In 1975, she was honored as Harborview’s first-ever Employee of the Year.

Marie built a life of love and devotion with her husband, William L. Elleby Sr., an Army veteran who reflected the same strength and bravery she admired. Together, they raised ten children and cultivated a family rooted in faith and unity. God expanded her legacy generously: 26

grandchildren who cherished her wisdom, 45 great-grandchildren who basked in her love, and 3

great-great-grandchildren who continue the beautiful story she began. Her home was always open and her table always full, a place where hearts were nourished and souls were strengthened. Marie mothered not just her own, she mothered God’s people. Her heart was a home where many found refuge, joy, and belonging.

Marie’s impeccable style may have turned heads, but it was her faith that truly turned hearts. She

lived each day with purpose, unwavering in her beliefs, bold in her devotion to God, and gentle

in her love for others. The light she carried was the light of Christ, shining through her with a radiance that uplifted every soul she encountered. She didn’t just brighten a room,

she illuminated lives.

Marie’s Homegoing Ceremony will be held on Friday,

November 14th at Greenwood Funeral Home,

350 Monroe Ave NE in Renton,

with viewing at 10:00am followed by the service at 11:00am.

A Celebration of Life will take place on

Saturday, November 15th at 11:00am at

Southside Church of Christ, 12200 59th Ave S in Seattle.

The Committal Service will be on Monday, November 17th at 1:30pm

at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St in Kent.

Having fought the good fight and kept the faith, she now rejoices with a crown in glory,

and her life will echo through eternity.