Ellen Henley Villeneuve

Ellen Henley Villeneuve, 73, of Neptune Beach, FL, passed away in Cary, NC. She was born on May 2, 1951, in Talladega, AL, and spent her childhood in Anniston, AL. She later attended the University of Alabama, an experience she remembered fondly throughout her life. Ellen eventually settled in Neptune Beach, FL, where she lived for many years near the ocean she loved.

Ellen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leslie Villeneuve; her son, Brant Villeneuve; and her parents, Tim and Betty Henley.

She is survived by her sons, Eric Villeneuve (Amelia) and Carey Villeneuve (Stephanie), and her cherished grandchildren: Jadon, Piper, Samantha, Elijah, Xavier, Easton, and Rhodes.

She is also survived by her sister Kay Lilly and Kay’s children, Wesley Hicks and Melissa Houston; and by her sister Rebecca Dawson, brother-in-law Larry Dawson, and their children, Bradley Dawson and Kristen Barnes.

Ellen loved being a mom to her three boys. Her greatest joy was found in nurturing her family, and she took immense pride in the people they became. A woman of faith, Ellen loved Jesus and her life had many reflections of that love in the hospitality, generosity, and grace that marked her presence with others.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion to those she loved, and her deep appreciation for life’s simple joys—especially time spent by the sea.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 25 at 2:00 p.m. at Summit Church Apex, 3000 Lufkin Rd, Apex, NC 27539. Light refreshments will follow the service. As a note, the family is hoping to hold a small memorial service in the Jacksonville area in the fall for folks who cannot travel and to spread Ellen's ashes in Neptune Beach with Les and Brant's.