In Loving Memory of Ella Johnson Hensley

November 25, 1923, to November 6, 2023

Granny Eller, a beacon of faith and love, passed peacefully at home on November 6, 2023, after having lived just nineteen days shy of a century on this earth. Born in Madison County, she married Arnold "Monk" Hensley in 1946 after his return from service in France during World War II. We were blessed by her steadfast presence in our lives and her spirit of resilience and grace that endured nearly 100 remarkable years. She was the best biscuit maker, ever.

A cherished prayer warrior, Granny was a testament to the power of faith and the strength of community. In addition to Shelton Laurel, she and Monk spent 15 years in Plano, Illinois, where she continued to weave a tapestry of friendship and kindness that enfolded all who knew her. To say she never met a stranger is an understatement, as she was renowned for transforming chance encounters in grocery aisles, doctors' offices, and even wrong number phone calls into lasting connections and opportunities to tell newly found friends about Jesus.

As we mourn the absence of our beloved Granny, we extend heartfelt appreciation to the countless individuals who brightened her days. Your acts of kindness added warmth and love to her life. We are grateful to Teresa Gunter, whose cheerful and tender care was a blessing to Granny. The compassionate care provided by the team at Hot Springs Home Health, especially Brian with his "big muscles" and his dance moves, brought comfort and smiles in times when they were most needed. A special note of thanks to Dr. Chipper Jones, whom she held dear as a doctor and friend. Many thanks to Emerson Franklin and the Laurel Fire Dept. Volunteers who supplied support and care any time Granny ever needed them. It is a blessing beyond words to know that each person who took a moment to call, visit, or send a card held a special place in Granny's heart.

Preceding Granny in her journey to heaven were her husband, Arnold "Papa Monkey" Hensley; her youngest daughter, Rosalee Roberts Fritsch; and her cherished grandchildren, Rosella Roberts Franklin, and Lewis Aikens.

She leaves behind her children, Phyllis Aikens (Alonzo), Judy Shelton (Casey), and Kenny Hensley (Phyllis); her grandchildren, Loretta Shelton (Chris), Wanda Clemens (Jim), Patricia Wallin (Steve), Regina Frazier (Jason), Ricky Fritsch (Laura), Brian Hensley (Rachel), Ryan Waldrop (Maria), Tabitha Hensley, Brianna Hensley, and Casey Hensley; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Crystal Hill, Ashley Weaver (Coty), Kayla Wooten (Ryan), Jeremy Wallin (Lashay), Wesley Hill, Gaston McGill, Ayla Buchanan (Elijah), McKenzi Shook (Bryson), Jonathon Franklin, Kelci Ross (Zach), Kelby Aikens, Jessie Frazier, Ayden Lindholm, Knoah Mosell, Keegan Mosell, Adalynn Govero, and Gianni Hernandez, plus 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Whether family, friend, or neighbor, each encounter with Granny left one feeling they were loved unconditionally. Her 'special son,' Bernard Franklin, and many nieces, nephews, and other family members, whose numbers are too vast to count, held a special place in her heart. To honor her memory and the mark she left on our hearts, we encourage each and every one to live with a heart as loving and embracing as Granny.

Since Granny was looking forward to her 100th birthday party this month, we invite you to join us in celebrating her life at Carmen Church of God, 30 Big Creek Road, Marshall, on Thursday, November 9, at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be held prior to the service at Carmen Church of God from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Flowers, birthday balloons, and cards would be a welcome comfort.

The family will also be receiving friends and relatives at Granny's house, 1966 Cutshall Town Road, Marshall, NC, on Wednesday, November 8, from 1:00 PM to 12:00 noon on Thursday November 9. We welcome those who knew Ella to join us in fellowship and remembrance of a life beautifully lived.