Maeola (Beddell) Ellison

Maeola Ellison was born in the year of our Lord 1940 in Talbot County, Georgia to the late Only Beddell and the late Emily (Mitchell) Beddell.  
Maeola obtained her education from Thomaston Training School in Thomaston, Georgia.

Maeola was united in marriage to Willie Junior Ellison. From this marriage they were blessed with one child. Victoria Ann Ellison. Both of Maeola’s loved ones preceded her in death. 

Maeola was a fabulous cook, her love for cooking started at 7 years of age. Her mother put her on a stool at the stove and taught her how to cook, and the magic began.

She was a lifetime employee with the Fromm Electric Company. She worked dutifully and lovingly until her retirement. She also spent a brief period of time working at Ludens Candy Factory. 

Later in life, Maeola returned to her love for cooking and began a catering business with her cousin Robert Weaver and they serviced, Weddings, Family Reunions, Church events and other occasions for over 20 years. 

Maeola will be remembered for her love of family, and her outgoing and independent spirit, her outstanding culinary skills, sweet potato pies, and homemade dressing and her love for her church and above all, her love of God. 

Maeola was a longtime member of the Union Baptist Church.  She served as a founding member of the Reading Usher Unit.  She served in many capacities including President of the unit. She also served as president of the ushers for the Reading vicinity and the Ministerial Association. 

She was a long time member of Union Baptist Church. She was a member of the Usher's Board. She served as ministry leader of the Usher's for a number of years. She served as the church housekeeper. She cleaned and dusted and mopped and did whatever needed to be done to keep the building service ready. Of course we all know that she cooked. Ms. Maeola prepared many meals for many events at Union Baptist Church. She always knew what the favorite meal was for every pastor that came her way. She was always expected to serve fried chicken, meat loaf and sweet potato pie.

She worked with the Daycare Center when it was active. She prepared snacks and meals for the children. She also took care of the housekeeping duties in that building as well. She worked with the Food Bank when it was up and running and helped distribute food to families in need.

She often worked behind the scenes and was a valued instrument in getting things that the church needed done. She only wanted to help wherever she could.

She formed a special bond with many of the children. She encouraged them and made them feel important. They often looked for Ms. Maeola as soon as they came into the church.  She showed a special interest in them that made a positive impression. She was well respected and loved.

Maeola was predeceased by one sister, Annie Mae Cooper, one brother, Melvin Beddell, and her granddaughter, Kinatai Ellison.  

She leaves to cherish fond memories, one sister, Martha Sue Beddell, one grandson, Nasir Ellison, one god-son and nephew, her caregiver, Stanley L. Cooper.  
Also, four granddaughters, Catherine, Tyisha, Nyisha, and Christina, her great grandchildren, Shakiera, Chiante, Dashay, Aubrey Jr., and Imani. 
Six great great grandchildren Azai, Amiya, Nyla, Amari, Zuri and Aubrey III, and a host of adopted sons, daughters, nieces and nephews and church family and friends. 

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