Lucy Viola Ellington was born on October 27, 1933, in Boswell, Oklahoma, to William "Buck" Harrison Crowder and Ruby Mae Thomas Crowder. One of eleven children, Lucy grew up learning early the importance of faith, family, and hard work—values she carried with her every day of her life. She was also a proud member of the Choctaw Nation, a heritage she honored with quiet strength and pride.

Lucy passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 92.

On January 9, 1953, Lucy married the love of her life, Douglas Ellington, in Montgomery, Texas. Together they shared a life built on devotion, perseverance, and love. They raised two children, Marsha Lynn Casey and Steven Douglas Ellington, and created a home filled with care, guidance, and steady support.

Lucy worked hard her entire life, never shying away from a job that needed doing. Over the years she worked as a carhop, cashier, in a meat market, for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and finally as an Administrative Assistant at Sam Houston State University. After 20 years at SHSU, she retired, leaving behind not just a strong work record, but the respect and appreciation of those who worked alongside her.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Lucy loved the Lord deeply and lived her beliefs through kindness, humility, and quiet strength. She found joy in simple pleasures—working in her yard and garden, watching things grow, and sharing meals with family. And if there was hot catfish on the table, Lucy was especially happy.

Lucy is survived by her daughter, Marsha Casey and husband Tim; her son, Steve Ellington and wife Joyce; her grandchildren, Justin Ellington and wife Alyse, Christopher Casey and wife Christy, and Emily Casey; and her five great-grandchildren—Brooklynn, Madelynn, Autumn, Jace, and Tealy—each of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Douglas Ellington; her parents, Buck and Ruby Crowder; her ten siblings; and her grandson, Jeremy Daniel Ellington.

Lucy Viola Ellington will be remembered for her deep faith, her love for her family, her hardworking spirit, and the gentle way she cared for those around her. Her life was one of quiet devotion, and her legacy lives on through the many generations who were blessed to call her Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma.