Ida Mae Johnson Ellett

To the Family of Mrs. Ida Ellett, I would like to express my sincere sympathy. I met Ida when I was an employee at DGSC and she worked in the Personnel Office. When there was a problem or a question, she was also ways ready to help. Her pleasant and friendly personality always gave me comfort. It was a pleasure to know her. May God continue to bless you and may this beautiful lady rest in peace. Alma V. Jackson

The Delver Woman's Club, Inc. Established 1945

A Resolution in Loving Memory of Ida Mae Johnson Ellett

Ida M. J. Ellett during her tenure as an active member of The Delver Woman's Club, Inc. served as a Financial Secretary, and later became an Honorary Member.

She was a faithful, supportive, productive, and vivacious member of the Drama Interest Group working diligently to accomplish its objectives and goals.

Whereas, it has pleased Almighty God, the Sovereign of the Universe, to summon to His immortal legions our beloved friend and member, Ida Mae Johnson Ellett, on Wednesday, July 13, 2022; and

Whereas, we humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while ever cherishing in our hearts, her contributions to humanity and to the mandates of this organization; and

Whereas, the mission of this organization has greatly benefited from her loyal service, especially her commitment to promulgating and exemplifying the tenets of Drama and the Dramatic Arts; and

Whereas, we believe in the observations attributed to King Solomon, as recorded in Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under Heaven—a time to give birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted," Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, that in declaration of our mutual grief, lasting love and abiding respect, this resolution be given to the family of Ida Mae Johnson Ellett, and a copy of the resolution becomes a part of the permanent record of our organization in recognition of her dedicated service to The Delver Woman's Club, Inc. of Richmond, Virginia.

Lolita S. Moses, President The Delver Woman's Club, Inc Evelyn S. Rodriquez and Patricia W. Smith, Co-Chairmen Drama Interest Group

Proclaimed by The Delver Woman's Club, Inc. on Saturday, August 13, 2022

There's a softness and comfort about Grandma Ida that engulfed the room when she was present. Her lessons were taught with patience and an undeniable love. For someone like me, that meant the world. When I was about 16 or 17, Grandma Ida taught me how to bake a Thanksgiving turkey. Together we properly cleaned, seasoned and cooked that bird to perfection!  What she taught me has never left me. Thanksgiving is now hosted at my house each year. I cook it all! All due to Grandma Ida teaching me proper sanitation practices in the kitchen. I just don't trust that folks are washing their hands and sanitizing areas each time they should while preparing meals!  Grandma Ida had me wash my hands a million times that day! She taught me well! And I love her for it. Thank you, Grandma Ida! 102 years! Wow - well done! I can only imagine all the love and knowledge you have spread in your 102 years here! I'm sure your reach is far and wide. Our time was relatively short but your impact has positively enriched my life. It has birthed a place where people come and enjoy good food, community, and love. I love you and your gentle spirit. Rest well. Love, Tiffani

My dear spiritual sister and friend Robin,  

I am so very sorry for your loss.  I know that you have been a wonderful and devoted daughter to Miss Ida, through the good and challenging times. You and Gayann gave it your all to make sure that she was comfortable and wanted and needed nothing. I know that you're at peace with yourself simply because you walked with her and held her hand to the very end. That is the best gift you could have given her.  What a beautiful thing: She saw you take your first breath outside her womb, and you saw her take her last breath before entering her tomb. You were able to experience a portion of life that completes you as a daughter. I found this poem that I hope will bring you a bit of solace as you read it and reflect on what your mom will always mean to you. She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk through your garden; the scent of the flowers you pick, the fragrance of life itself. She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well,  She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a  rainbow and the tweeting of the birds.  She is Thanksgiving and Christmas mornings. Your mother lives inside your laughter. She's the place you came from, your first home, and she's the map you follow with every step you take. She's your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy. But nothing on earth can separate you. Not time, not space, not death. May the spirit of your mom, Miss Ida soar in power, as she continue to watch over you and Gayann, until you meet her again.

Your friend always, Yvette Finch St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Island

My heart is weak now because you left us so soon.  You are and always will be my champion. You embraced life with the Strength and Grace only given to a select few.  You gave us the dignity, respect  and the endurance to press on to accomplish your ambitions/goals.  You made me feel proud & strong and You gave me a piece of your heart that I took with the understanding that Love is bigger than life ...Love is our shield and will guide us through anything that we may go through .. even at this very precious moment.  Ms. Ellettt even now that you are with our Father in heaven ...your work continues on and knowing that  ..my heart will heal to become a better person giving unto others as you .. to forgive anyone I may offend & more importantly to forgive my foes.  I will take that piece of your heart that you gave to me ...to continue to spread the word that Love conquers death..Love defeats fear & more importantly, Love gives us strength and shines throughout our life to survive...now & forever.. I share these moments now as a testimony of our bonds created through time .. Love & friendship....over time.... However, last count ..I won that domino game...

Ms Ida

From the moment we met Ms Ida, we loved her. It was such a joy to be in the presence of this ageless, intelligent and very witty lady. Her deadpan humor was quite amusing. We will surely miss her and her yearly birthday celebrations which included Sydney. We will always remember you Ms Ida.

May the angels welcome you into paradise -Agnes, Andrea and; Sydney

When Robin introduced me to her momma 20 years ago, I immediately recognized that I was in the company of a strong, smart, determined, and self reliant lady. I also got a peak of a wee hint of stubbornness. That Ms. Ida graced this earth with her presence to the age of 102 certainly did not surprise me.  She would have had it no other way.  She loved her family, she loved her life, and she made sure that she lived it to the fullest.  Ms. Ida is, without doubt, among the angels happily running things!   Robin, Gayann, and family; my family and I send healing prayers during this difficult time. You are in our hearts and thoughts, and we wish you peace and solace.  With love and condolences,  Jackie Adams, Jordan Adams, and family.

Dear Grandma, Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting and you will never be forgotten.  Though miles may lie between us, we are never far apart, for friendship doesn't count miles, it's measured by the heart. You and I will meet again, When we're least expecting it, One day in some far off place, I will recognize your face, I won't say goodbye grandma until we will meet again. We Love & Miss You Grandma Ellett         Love Raiquon, Damali; and Family

RIP Aunt Ida, I love you and will miss you,,, Chucky

Missida – my "other mother" taught me many lessons and one of the first was I could not outrun her shoe! At a tough point in my adult life, she told me not to worry about the opinions of others and to do what I knew was right for me.  She and my Mom pressed that I should always have money that was only available and visible to me and when I moved into my home she slipped me the money for a new hot water heater and a chair (which she said I should sit on and think of her).  She always brought a smile to my face because she gave me the only nickname I've ever had (Tiddly), and she called me by that nickname my entire life!  Most importantly, I know that she is with me because a few minutes ago when I pulled out a huge box of old photos to look for one of her, the first photo I touched was one of her! I love you and will miss you Missida!!!  Hope you and Mom are having fun! Tiddly ___________________________________________________

There was a softness and comfort about Grandma Ida that engulfed the room when she was present. Her lessons were taught with patience and an undeniable love. For someone like me, that meant the world. When I was about 16 or 17, Grandma Ida taught me how to bake a Thanksgiving turkey. Together we properly cleaned, seasoned and cooked that bird to perfection!  What she taught me has never left me. Thanksgiving is now hosted at my house each year. I cook it all! All due to Grandma Ida teaching me proper sanitation practices in the kitchen. I just don't trust that folks are washing their hands and sanitizing areas each time they should while preparing meals!  Grandma Ida had me wash my hands a million times that day! She taught me well! And I love her for it. Thank you, Grandma Ida! 102 years! Wow - well done! I can only imagine all the love and knowledge you have spread in your 102 years here! I'm sure your reach is far and wide. Our time was relatively short but your impact has positively enriched my life. It has birthed a place where people come and enjoy good food, community, and love. I love you and your gentle spirit. Rest well. Love, Tiffani ______________________________________________________

Our beloved aunt, friend, confidant and advisor was always available and willing to offer anyone and everyone excellent advice and wisdom on how to best navigate life and its many obstacles whether requested or not.  As she was extremely knowledgeable and wise on any and every subject and motivated everyone to achieve their fullest potential and become a valuable asset to their family and society.  Having been well read and very enthusiastic, she was a "go getter" in every manner, way, shape, and form.  She was well loved and respected by family, friends, acquaintances, and all who knew her.  May God continue to bless her in her heavenly home.  She will truly be missed and forever remain in our hearts. The Williams and Booker Families

Before I was invited to visit Robin and her family in Richmond, the furthest south I had ever been was New Jersey. But I'm writing to tell you that southern hospitality is the real deal. The Elletts were so warm and welcoming to me, it was almost like being with my own mommy and daddy. Thank you so much, Miz Ida, for trusting me with the love and friendship of your darling daughter. I know that you are in glory and in peace, rejoicing in the love of your precious ones who went before you. Psalm 91:1-2 - He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." Ashton Cynthia Clarke

Thank you for all the memories words of Wisdom and Support. We shared lots of special memories that will be cherished for eternity.

Lisa, Carley and Shea

Simply put my Great Aunt Ida was great to me! She always greeted me with an enormous smile and core warming hugs. As a remembrance plays of my summers spent with Aunt Ida, she always went out of her way to make me feel welcome. The two of us were such an odd couple, sweet and salty which made the perfect blend. I was the wild child; she was Lady Ida Governess of Etiquette. (smile) My Aunt firmly believed there's an order to things and "a time for everything". While searching for the perfect words to say how much I love her I realized she already knew that undisputedly. Also, her love for me needs no words. I decided a more fitting way to honor my great aunt is this passage Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. This is one of the best lessons she taught me as well as shinning a spotlight on a part of her essence. I want to honor her on this day by sharing the lesson with you all. Everything has a time. With my forever love and admiration, I know your time has come, Dara.  Simply put, I love you beyond words. Dara,

A Time for Everything 3 There is a time for everything,     and a season for every activity under the heavens: 2     a time to be born and a time to die,     a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3     a time to kill and a time to heal,     a time to tear down and a time to build, 4     a time to weep and a time to laugh,     a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5     a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,     a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6     a time to search and a time to give up,     a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7     a time to tear and a time to mend,     a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8    time to love and a time to hate,     a time for war and a time for peace. Dara Spencer

Because she cared for me, Mrs. Ellett always wanted to know what I was thinking and where I was headed in life.  I can still hear her voice giving me words of encouragement at a pivotal point in my life.  Her opinions were deliberate and unfiltered.  She was the one in the room unafraid to ask the question everyone was thinking.  Yes, Ida Mae could bring it...and at the end of the day she made us better. Rest in Peace Fermando

Ida...thank you for being the best grandmother and great grandmother to all of us! We love you and are thankful for the many memories and stories we have shared. Especially the memories with your great grandchildren  Carley, Maliyah and Jordan. You have touched all of us with your wisdom, laughter and your joy of living life. We were blessed to have spent time with you and you will forever be in our hearts. Rest In Peace. Love, Charles Nadine Carley Maliyah Jordan and your great great grandson Antonio

Mrs. Ellett was a remarkable woman who lived a full life and more with two careers.  She was connected to my family on many levels and it started before I was born with her graduating from Armstrong High School in the same class as my father.  My first connection to meeting her was when I was very young and her youngest daughter Robin and I were in dancing school together.  Later by the time Robin and I got to high school we were close friends, and Mrs. Ellett and my mother were the parents we called to pick us up from tennis practice.  She didn't mind supporting our extracurricular activities.  I also use to spend the night in her home with Robin when we were in high school and she was very welcoming.  Fast forward I lived in another state for a period of time and became Catholic; upon my return to Richmond in the year 2000, I found out Mrs. Ellett was a member of the church I started attending, St. Paul Catholic Church.  It was nice to see an old familiar welcoming face.   Mrs. Ellett was very active in church activities at St. Pau with one of them being a lector.  She also lead a class station one summer with the church's Vacation Bible School week and my son got to know her better when he spent time in her class station.  The last memorable occasion was when my grown son and I spent Thanksgiving, 2018 with Mrs. Ellet, Robin, and other family members, which was the first time we had ever had a Thanksgiving together.  The fellowship was nice.  Mrs. Ellett lived to the age of 102 and touched many lives during her life time and she will be remembered through each and every one of those lives. Cheryl Christian

If anyone would ask me who Ida Ellett was to me, I would say, first and foremost, she was my friend. You know that kind of person that people say was a ride or die sort of friend. I always knew that Ida had my back. In fact, she always reminded me she had my back. She used to say, Tanya, we got this. I knew it was true. When Ida was with me, I knew we could conquer almost any obstacle. Ida was a strong woman and I loved her. I have known Ida for almost 25 years. She was on the hiring committee when I applied for my first director of religious education job and she has been there for me ever since. When my daughter was going through a very difficult stage, Ida helped me get through it. She didn't judge me. Ida use to ask me "what is going on over there at the church?" All I had to say was a person's name and Ida's eyes would widen and we both burst out laughing. It wasn't like gossiping, it was more like girlfriends sharing secrets. When Ida said she was moving with her daughter Robin to the Bahama, my heart was sad, but I was happy for Robin because with Ida you never felt alone. Ida was a strong woman. She was a fighter. She was my friend and I loved her. Be at peace Ida, you will be missed! Tanya Lesane

My grandma taught me a few key things that will help me greatly in life, patience is far better than arrogance, and love is boundless as long as you respect it. She always had something to show me or teach me, although I thought I knew better. I now realize she was preparing me for trials that without her wisdom I may never figure my way through, but now I realize it just takes a moment of silence and strong thought. She looks after all of us in her own special way, but I know for me she's hugging just a bit tighter. My connection with grandma may not be understood by all so let me clarify, grandma will always be the queen in my book, I love you Grandma ida. Javon Patrick

Our hearts were saddened upon learning of Ida's passing. Immediately, we began to reminisce on our memories of Ida. She often visited her father Robert Johnson and her cousins in Henderson. Ida was an advocate for education, equal justice and she was a Christian dedicated to her faith. Her cousin James stated, "I was always glad to see Ida coming because she helped me with my homework." "When I was in the VA Medical Center in New York, she visited me on several occasions." "Ida gave assistance to me so I could attend Camp for two weeks," Mary Lee said. The memories went on and on. Ida spoke of issues not people. She guided and inspired others by the life she lived and the services she gave.

We believe that a life lived as Ida's was lived cannot die, but will live on in the hearts, memories, and ideals of all those who knew and loved her. Ida's legacy will be passed on for generations to come. The Children of Bessie Mae Johnson Ingram: James Henry Ingram and Mary Lee Ingram Cobbs

Our hearts were saddened upon learning of Ida's passing. Immediately, we began to reminisce on our memories of Ida. She often visited her father Robert Johnson and her cousins in Henderson. Ida was an advocate for education, equal justice and she was a Christian dedicated to her faith. Her cousin James stated, "I was always glad to see Ida coming because she helped me with my homework." "When I was in the VA Medical Center in New York, she visited me on several occasions." "Ida gave assistance to me so I could attend Camp for two weeks," Mary Lee said. The memories went on and on. Ida spoke of issues not people. She guided and inspired others by the life she lived and the services she gave.

We believe that a life lived as Ida's was lived cannot die, but will live on in the hearts, memories, and ideals of all those who knew and loved her. Ida's legacy will be passed on for generations to come. The Children of Bessie Mae Johnson Ingram: James Henry Ingram and Mary Lee Ingram Cobbs

The elements of a BEAUTIFUL WOMAN: IDA MAE JOHNSON ELLETT

I = INDEPENDENT / INVALUABLE / IMPECCABLE D = DETERMINED / DELIGHTFUL / DURABLE A = ABSOLUTE / APPRECIATIVE / ARTICULATE M = MATERNAL / MOTIVATED / MOTHERA = ACCOMMADATING / ACTIVE / AFFLUENTE = ELEGANT / EMBRACING / ENGAGING J = JOYFUL / JOLLY / JUSTIFYIABLE O = OPINIONATED / OPEN / OPTIMISTIC H = HOLISTIC / HUMBLE / HONEST N = NEIGHBORLY / NEGOTIABLE / NUTURING S = SPIRITUAL / SENSITIVE / SAUCY O = ORDERLY / OUTSTANDING / OUTRIGHT N = NOTEWORTHY / NOTORIOUS / NIMBLE E = ETERNAL / ENTERTAINING / EXELLENCE L = LOYAL / LOVING / LIFELONG Lisa Ramseur

If anyone would ask me who Ida Ellett was to me, I would say, first and foremost, she was my friend. You know that kind of person that people say was a ride or die sort of friend. I always knew that Ida had my back. In fact, she always reminded me she had my back. She used to say, Tanya, we got this. I knew it was true. When Ida was with me, I knew we could conquer almost any obstacle. Ida was a strong woman and I loved her. I have known Ida for almost 25 years. She was on the hiring committee when I applied for my first director of religious education job and she has been there for me ever since. When my daughter was going through a very difficult stage, Ida helped me get through it. She didn't judge me. Ida use to ask me "what is going on over there at the church?" All I had to say was a person's name and Ida's eyes would widen and we both burst out laughing. It wasn't like gossiping, it was more like girlfriends sharing secrets. When Ida said she was moving with her daughter Robin to the Virgin Islands, my heart was sad, but I was happy for Robin because with Ida you never felt alone. Ida was a strong woman. She was a fighter. She was my friend and I loved her. Be at peace Ida, you will be missed! Tanya Lesane

How do I even start, Grandma The life you lived you have seen it all change and modernize right in front of your eyes And you Pivot your way through it just like the game of domino's The queen of dominoes hands-down I remember when We used to homeschool me you were teaching me how to read and Apparently I was reading way too fast not on your pace we got into it 20 minutes later when Mom came home We pretend that we've been doing schoolwork for the last 30 minutes Ooh Grandma you were unique in your own ways and I love you for that At times tooo space but that's what made you this amazing human being that we all love. You will be forever stored in my heart Spread your soul in this beautiful universe, and please watch over us. Fillemon

"Our Grilfriend Ida Ellett" I have known Ida for many years as a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. We became close friends when we both served on the Pastoral Council committee. We attended Sunday Mass and Wednesday Mass where she was the reader. In our travels around town, she suggested that I become a volunteer usher for Center Stage after we attended the grand opening of the Carpenter Theater. Ida was also a volunteer worker at community hospital, and she invited my husband Ray and myself to join her there as Hospital volunteers. Ida attended Elementary School in Fulton with Admiral Samuel L. Gravely. He was the US Navy and first African-American Commander. They always competed against each other for the highest grades in class. Ida was smart articulate and very knowledgeable. She kept excellent records and always took her appointed positions very seriously. My husband and I were very glad that Ida was a special friend and we had many great social times and meals together. Try as we might, we never could beat her playing dominoes. We never fail to tell her that we loved her up until the day before she passed. Ida has and will always have a special place in our hearts forever. Ray and Carolyn Page

It is our turn to shine your light on the rest of the world, so you may Rest In Peace. Grandma you'll always be loved and remembered, your voice and your smile will always be with us, today and tomorrow, and my whole life. I will always love and cherish you. I wish I could see you before you go. I want you to continue to look over me. One thing I could say is that you was old, but you act like you was young. Love you 4ever Raiquon james

Ms Ida Testimonial I first met Robin's mother at Rene Wilder's apartment in NYC. Rene's mother, Jackie, and Robin's mom had been friends since the girls were born, and the room was soon full of old stories, teasing and calls of 'Miss Jackie" and Miss "Ida'. I called Robin's mom 'Ms Ida" from then on, and grew to love her dearly. When we travelled to Richmond to visit, Ms Ida included me in her activities, taking us to her church, to serve thanksgiving dinner in a local shelter, and to make rounds meeting and visiting relatives all over town. When she came to stay with us in the Virgin Islands, Ms Ida became an active member of a local church, Nazareth by the Sea, and attended in person and virtually during Covid, often doing scripture readings on line. She enjoyed being with and tutoring our 3 boys and patting and watching our 5 dogs. She loved reading about the local government scandals and often had good suggestions about how to handle controversies at my work. When Robin and her Mom were separated, they spoke on the phone almost every evening, even when we were in Africa for a few years. Robin and Ms Ida were truly blessed to have such a long, sustaining and loving relationship, and as her family, we were blessed to share in the memories and joy of having this amazing woman in our lives. Dr. Gayann Hall

To the family of Mrs. Ida Mae, deepest sympathy, may God and his angels grant you the strength to continue to carry the banner. Earth has no sorry heaven cannot heal. Look to the hills your help surely comes from the Lord. Continuously praying your strength.

Miss Ida was an inspiration to our daughter w/ helping w/ mathematics when she was struggling in high school. Always generous, compassionate, kind, and above all..... loving. A very loving person, soft spoken, friend of anyone. RIP our dear Ida..... Cannot wait to get to Heaven to hear your sweet voice. Condolences to family. Joe and Nancy Naman

< I WILL NEVER FORGET MRS IDA MAE ELLETT, nor the pleasant memories we shared. REST WELL mrs ellett.GOD IS WELL PLEASED

Robin & Beryl, Wishing you strength, peace and comfort to mend your heartaches at this time.

We offer our support and a listening ear whenever you need it. Just know that you are loved.

Ray and Carolyn Page

To the family & friends of Ida Ellett,

We at Mount Calvary Cemetery wish to express our deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one and we pray that God will help to ease your pain in the days to come. We are proud and honored to be chosen as the final resting place for Ida. This is a responsibility that we do not take lightly and I pledge the highest level of perpetual care to honor her memory. Please do not hesitate to call us with any concerns or if there is anything we can do to make these difficult experiences any easier.

Jim Glass General Mgr. Mount Calvary Cemetery 804-355-5271

Robin, I'm sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I was a friend of Aunt Tiny and she mentioned you frequently in our conversations.

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.