Ella Ford DeYoung

Ella Ford DeYoung passed away on January 24, 2022 at the age of 15 surrounded by her family who loved and cherished her. The adult in the room since the day she could speak, Ella’s wit, frankness, and curiosity left an impression on everyone she met.

Ella’s true love was learning about people and the human experience. She loved travel and music, and adored hearing and telling stories about family and friends at any kind of gathering. Holidays and birthdays were her most treasured days.

Ella loved learning and embraced the opportunity to let her independent spirit grow. She attended Calvary Episcopal School in Richmond from Pre-K through her 8th-grade graduation last May. A natural leader, Ella was elected student government leader in 7th grade. In September, she began attending Foster High School.

An accomplished athlete, Ella rose to extraordinary heights in competitive gymnastics. She also excelled at competitive volleyball and golf. Her exceptional level of maturity shone through her interest in working with children only a few years younger than her. She taught gymnastics classes to children in the neighborhood, babysat, and was CPR certified. Ella worked at Iron Cross Gymnastics helping kids find success in the sport she loved.

Ella had tremendous empathy for those less fortunate than her and anyone going through a stressful time. She always wanted to make things right. Ella enriched the lives of those closest to her during her 15 short years. She had lofty ambitions and plans. Life for those who knew her will not be the same without her.

She will be eternally loved by her parents, Shannon and Jason, her siblings, Avery and Von, her grandparents, Bill and Susan Jameson and Richard and Lynn DeYoung, her uncles and aunt, Richard DeYoung Jr. and Jared and Jennifer Jameson, and her cousin, Jensen Jameson.

A memorial service to celebrate Ella’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at River Pointe Church, 21000 Southwest Frwy, Richmond, Texas.