Ella May Kerbow McMillan

Born in Ladonia, Texas, on November 15, 1922, Ella was the daughter of the late Susie May Bennett and Robert Allen Kerbow. She attended Cooper High School and East Texas State University, where she lettered in tennis and softball. Her love of sports continued throughout her life, and she played tennis into her 70’s as a member of Charlotte Indoor Tennis Club.

Ella loved bridge and was a member of several bridge clubs, one for 40 years. She was a talented seamstress, always keeping her children and grandchildren dressed exquisitely and bringing great delight to those who witnessed her creations.

Ella will be remembered for her fierce and steadfast love of family and her mental strength and clarity that remained long after her health declined. Her greatest joy was in caring for her children and grandchildren. She was a devout member of St. Ann Catholic Church for 58 years. She treasured her friendships forged there and in her neighborhood. A former president of Charlotte Executive Secretaries, Ella worked for Standard Trucking Company for 40 years.

She was preceded in death by: her husband of 57 years, Albert Porter McMillan; her granddaughter, Claire McMillan Horton; and her siblings, Francis Delores Kerbow; David Mansel Kerbow; Bennett Allen Kerbow; and Mattie Marie Kerbow Bartley.

She is survived by her brother, Odis Doyce Kerbow of Houston, Texas; daughter, Mary McMillan Horton (Tom); sons, Ralph Reiss McMillan (Sally); and George Kerbow McMillan (Shelley); and granddaughters, Sara Porter McMillan, Dorothy Bennett McMillan Ryan, and Eleanor May McMillan.

The family would like to thank Shelley McMillan for her loving and devoted care during Ella’s illnesses over the years. In addition, they extend gratitude to Cathay Davis for her loyal companionship and care, as well as Drs. Scott Lindblom, Erika Bono, Richard Zollinger, and the staff of CHS Pineville.

Her family will receive friends Sunday, September 13, 2015, from 6-8 p.m. at the home of Sally and Ralph McMillan. Her family will also receive friends in the church vestibule one hour prior to her service to celebrate Ella’s life at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2015, at St. Ann Catholic Church, 3635 Park Road, Charlotte.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Ann Catholic Church or to donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be offered at www.mcewenpinevillechapel.com