Ella May Covey, passed away January 31, 2022- one day before her 98 th birthday, with some of her family present.  We think she wanted to spend a heavenly 98th birthday, with her husband Bob Covey (of 60 years) and oldest daughter Bonnie Poindexter who both predeceased her.  She was born in San Diego, California, to Birdie ( Gregory) Reynolds and Frank Reynolds. Ellie, (as most people called her) was ahead of her time and was a force to be reckoned with. She wore many hats throughout her life. She was a pioneer, wife, Mom, friend and an all-around fun person. Ellie and Bob raised five wonderful, smart, strong, and determined children:  Bonnie , ( William) Poindexter, Kathy, (Max) Poindexter,   Betty,(Thomas),Bongiorno,,  Rebecca ( Todd Block) Covey,  and one “Golden Haired Son” Robert(Bud) Covey II, who was her primary care giver for the last  12 plus years of her life! His self-sacrifice and contribution to Ellie’s quality of life, especially as it wound down was truly appreciated. She also leaves nine adoring Grandchildren who she loved and cherished: Cindy, (Dave),Ewing, William Poindexter II, Tammy Daily; Shelly (Dennis), Hartmann, Max Poindexter II, Hillary, ( Matt), Fisher; Stacy, (Heather) Jones, Heather, (Michael) DiCosola; Christy,(Greg),Daw.  And she leaves behind 23 Great Grandchildren and 11 Great-Great Grandchildren!

Ellie and Bob built four houses together(two in South Haven, one on Swan Lake and one in Florida)-the truest Test of a Marriage!!  And which they passed with flying colors!!!...and some flying language and objects !! Her heart was always in warm climates.  This is likely why she painted our white brick Michigan home a Hot Flamingo Pink one year!! Sometimes her maverick thinking was a bit embarrassing for her family.

Ellie was a forward thinker and was one of the first Car Hops at the original Tommy’s Drive Inn, located on Blue Star Hi-way. She was one of the first teacher aids at Maple Grove School and worked at the first Rubber Company. She went to Cosmetology School and then worked in some local Beauty Shops. When she and Bob retired to Florida she worked at Zayres, and Goodwill .

Ellie loved her Bingo and crosswords  and did well at both. She also was a skilled and tactical Euchre player and even played the weekend she died!! She was hard to beat!! She could play hours on end and was relentless. She was a very good sport right up to the end. Always up for new places and new adventures. She enjoyed many mother-daughters trips going to Reno, San Diego, West Virginia, Chicago, Savannah and the Upper Peninsula. She also made several Florida-Michigan road trips with her son.

All can agree that she will be greatly missed. But we will keep her in our hearts with happy memories and gratitude for the example she set.  She inspired us all and her legacy of good humor, independent thinking and bold gusto for life will live on.

Ella May has been cremated per her wishes. A zoom memorial will be offered on March 22 at 6 p.m. with details for attendance will be provided via face book  through her daughter, Kathy Poindexter.