Ella Mae DuRard

Ella Mae (Massey) DuRard (86) a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Jesse Burton (J.B.) DuRard (October 24, 2024); by her parents, Roy Massey, Sr., and Shirley (Stevens) Massey; and by her brother, Roy Massey, Jr.

Ella Mae was born and raised in Princeton, KY. After high school graduation, she moved to Nashville to attend Fall's Business College. She enjoyed a 30 year career with the Methodist Board of Discipleship as an administrative and financial assistant.

Ella Mae was happiest when she was with her family. She loved going back to visit Kentucky and spending time with her brothers and sister. She loved being a mother to her daughters and then a grandmother to her 5 grandchildren. She never said "no" to anything her family needed. Her selflessness was undeniable.

Ella Mae was a longtime member of Bellevue Christian Church, where she served as a deacon and in numerous other capacities alongside J.B.

Ella Mae is survived by her cherished daughters, Dena (David) Mays-Sullivan and Tanya (Scott) Rice; and her loving grandchildren, Kayla Rice, Andrea Mays, Kirsten (Cole) Bradshaw, Justin DuRard Mays, and Cassidy Rice. Great-grandchildren, Kai Rivers, Fallon Willcutt, and Wylder Bradshaw. Her dearest sister, Dorothy (Massey) Beckort; her beloved brother, Dennis (Debbie) Massey; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bellevue Christian Church, or the charity of your choice in honor of Ella Mae's memory. Her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of those she touched.