Ella Mae McKinney

Ella McKinney, 85, a resident of Bridge City, Texas, peacefully passed away in the comfort of her residence on Sunday, February 4, 2024. She was 85 years old.

Friends and family will gather to pay their respects during the visitation hours at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Groves, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

 A heartfelt funeral service will commence at 11:00 a.m., also on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Groves. Presiding over the ceremony with grace and compassion will be Reverend David Burk. Ella's final resting place will be alongside her beloved husband at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Nederland.

 Ella was born on May 5, 1938, in Palestine, Texas. She was the cherished daughter of Alvis Anderson Higginbotham and Edna Mae Higginbotham. Ella dedicated many years of her life to working as a Teller at Nederland State Bank before finding solace in retirement. A proud and devoted member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Nederland, Ella showcased her musical talents by playing both the piano and organ for an astounding fifty-three years. In her journey through life, Ella knew both joy and heartache. 

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, J.B. McKinney, and her dear brother, Alvis DeWayne Higginbotham. 

Left to treasure cherished memories are Ella's daughter, Linda Noyola, accompanied by her loving husband Dino of Groves, TX; her son, Mike McKinney of Bridge City, TX; six grandchildren: Trevor Noyola, Nathan Noyola and his devoted wife Amberly, Jordan Noyola and his beloved wife Alyssa, Courtney Bolles and her adoring husband Brett, Matthew McKinney, and Jessica McKinney; as well as six great-grandchildren. Ella is also survived by her sisters: Laverne Moore of Burleson, TX, Jean Berryhill of Burleson, TX; and sister-in-law Rhonda Higginbotham. Additionally, Ella leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and a wealth of friends whose lives were deeply touched by her presence.