Ellen Paige Brayfield passed away peacefully with her family by her side on April 10, 2014. Ellen was born in Springfield on August 18, 1939, to Laddie and Mary Shanks (both deceased). Ellen’s husband of 42 years, Marion “Richard” Brayfield, preceded her in death in 2005.
Ellen graduated from Parkview High School. Many people will remember Ellen as “Stella” at Modern America Insurance and the Plumbers and Pipefitters LU #178.
Ellen could make you laugh, love and fear her all at the same time with her wit and sass. She loved the water, whether it was her backyard pool or camping at the lake and river. Ellen was a crafter and many people enjoyed her artistry.
Ellen was a woman who put her family first. She loved her children and grandchildren fiercely and unconditionally. Her children: Steven Potts, deLacey (Anthony) Miller and Scott (fiancée, Shelly McCarty) Brayfield. Ellen was “Mimi” to her grandchildren. Mimi would do anything for her grandchildren and they adored her, they are: Tucker, Laddie and Chauncey Miller; Kannon Brayfield and Russell Potts (deceased). Her step-grandchildren: Baylea Smith and Anita Adams. Step great-grandchildren: Miranda and Kayla Adams.
Ellen came from a large family; she was the oldest of 12 children: Bobbi Jameson, Bennett Shanks, Becky (Bill) Fullerton, David (Linda) Shanks, Mike (Diana) Shanks, Pat (Carolyn) Shanks, Carmen Bein, Terri Shanks, Sandi (Tom) Drake; Scotti (Gene) Inmon and Jimmy (Becky) Shanks. Ellen is also survived by her sisters-in-law: Betty (Stan) Hill, Maxine Baker and Shirley (Bob) Gruhn. Ellen was also blessed with a host of nieces, nephew and friends, too numerous to list.
Ellen is now with the love of her life, Richard, singing and dancing to Willie Nelson, just like they did many, many times with their family and friends.
A funeral service to celebrate and honor Ellen will be on Monday, April 14th, 9:30 am at Greenlawn North (3506 N National, Springfield).