Ethal Beatrice Kellon

Ethel Beatrice Kellon, a devoted wife, cherished mother and grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on May 17th at the age of 85.

Born on March 12, 1940, Ethel’s life was one of remarkable strength, purpose, and love—a legacy that will endure for generations.

A prodigious student, Ethel graduated from Tuskegee Institute schools at the age of just 16. During her school years, she proudly served as a drum majorette, gracefully leading her band with spirit and pride—a symbol of the leadership and determination that would define her life.

She went on to serve her country’s veterans with compassion and commitment, dedicating over 30 years to the Tuskegee VA Medical Center. Her work was more than a career; it was a calling—rooted in service, empathy, and excellence.

She also loved to sew and craft, and was a devoted attendee and member of local craft groups through the years where she thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship and creating with friends. She was also a talented cake maker, along with many other talents and hobbies she utilized to give love to those around her.

Ethel shared an extraordinary love with her husband, Sidney Thomas Kellon until his passing in 2016. In an era and place where their union was not accepted, the two courageously traveled from Lee County to Montgomery to marry—defying the odds with grace and resolve. Together, they built a home filled with love, faith, and perseverance.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. A devoted member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn, Alabama, Ethel lived out the Gospel in both word and deed. She ministered overseas in Russia through Samaritan’s Purse, preaching the Word of God and bringing light to the nations. Her generosity extended beyond borders, as she also sponsored international students pursuing higher education at Auburn University, offering them not just opportunity, but a sense of family and belonging.

Ethel was also a patron of the arts, giving faithfully to the Atlanta Opera for many years. She believed in beauty, in culture, and in lifting others—whether through faith, education, or art.

To her family, Ethel was a rock—wise, nurturing, and unshakably faithful. To her grandchildren, she was more than a grandmother: she was a second mother, a prayer warrior, and a light in every season of life.

She is survived by Her sister Chris Glass and husband Rusty, daughter Meatha Garner and husband Gary, Son George Williams and wife Tammy, son Jeff Williams and wife Cindy, grandson DJ Garner, granddaughter Darrah Mallory, granddaughter Brittany Register, her husband Will and their son Beau, granddaughter Heather Williams and her children Ryder, Kaydn and Lilly, granddaughter Christina and her daughter Rylan, and several other family members to include grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mrs. Kellon will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of Ethel’s life will be held at Town Creek. Details will be announced by family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse or the Atlanta Opera in her memory.

“Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
— 1 Peter 3:4