Mrs. Ethel Mae Townsend was born on November 28, 1952, in Wadesboro, Anson County, NC, to the late William Stanly Chambers and Georgian Colson Chambers. She peacefully entered eternal rest in the early morning hours of Christmas Eve at Hospice of the Piedmont in High Point, NC. She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband, Arthur G. Townsend, whose memory she cherished deeply. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Mr. Cleophus Hood and Ms. Betty Adams.
Mrs. Townsend was a devoted and long-term resident of High Point, NC, where she faithfully served the community through her employment with the Guilford County Department of Social Services. Her work reflected her compassionate spirit and sincere concern for others. After her retirement, she and her beloved husband relocated to Seagrove, NC, where they embraced the quiet beauty and comfort of country living.
Mrs. Townsend was a proud graduate of Shaw University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology—an achievement that reflected her love of learning and intellectual curiosity. She found joy in gardening, fishing, decorating, and spending precious time with family and friends. She especially enjoyed watching Jeopardy! and other programs that challenged her intellect. Her home was often filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and stories that will be treasured for generations to come.
Mrs. Ethel Mae Townsend leaves to cherish her loving memory a brother William “Ted” Chambers, Greensboro, NC; her devoted children: Arthur Giovonne Townsend (Latoya) of High Point, NC; Erica Fershay Townsend of Jamestown, NC; and Terrance Benjamin Townsend of Seagrove, NC; she also leaves six grandchildren, Christian Townsend, Julian Townsend, Alexia Randleman, Eva Olverson, and Eden Olverson; and four great-grandchildren: Wynston Roberts, Kehlani Roberts, Brayley Townsend, and McKenzie Townsend; additionally, she leaves a loving host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
Though her earthly presence has ended, Mrs. Townsend’s life, love, and legacy will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her. This parting is not a farewell, but a gentle see you later, until we meet again.
Scripture: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23 (KJV)
Funeral service will be held Friday, January 9, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. Interment will follow at Guilford Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 12:00 p.m. until 12:30 p.m. Please send all Cards, Flowers to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
Erica, Giovonne, and Terrance,
"I'm so sorry about the loss of your mom. I know there are no words that can truly ease that kind of pain. Please know that you're loved, you're not alone. May God hold you close and give you peace when the days feel heavy. Sending love to the entire family. Latoya Bethea and Family
Hello, Family:
Ethel was my classmate and such a lovely person. Look up and trust God to Comfort and Keep you. God Bless each of you.
Dr. Gwendolyn Johnson-Green
Praying for God to give you all strength in these days to come. Mrs. Townsend was the epitome of a classy woman and always treated me like I was family even checking on my grandbaby Ava. Take your rest Queen. To my sister and Giovonne and the family you all have my prayers and condolences 💐
Thinking of the family as you celebrate Ethel's beautiful life. She will live on in your hearts. Love you, Aunt Shanda
I miss you so much mommy. You fought long and hard. Take your rest and rejoice with the Lord. I love you and til we meet again. Missing you mommy. 🩷
Ethel you were one of a kind. You will be missed. RIP
Sorry for your loss
Ethel Mae, you're finally at rest. Praying you're rejoicing with our forefathers...
To my first sister-in-law you will be missed from your brother-in-law and his family love you so much
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.