Ellen Rose Thames Swilley

Ellen Rose Thames Swilley, age 92, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, with her family by her side. Visitation will be Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Brandon from 2:00pm until 4:00pm. A graveside service will be Monday, January 29, 2024, at Oakdale Cemetery at 11:00am with Rev. Floyd Steverson officiating. 

She was born in Simpson County, MS on March 16, 1931, to the late James Frank Thames and Missie Mae Benton Thames. 

She was a woman of unwavering faith, whose love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of her life. She was a member of Oakdale Baptist Church and  drove a school bus for over forty years for Rankin County schools. Ellen Rose cherished her family. Her love for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-grandson knew no bounds. She showered them with affection and made sure they always felt loved and valued. One of Ellen's proudest accomplishments was her dedicated service in working at the voting polls for over twenty years. She believed wholeheartedly in democracy and the power of every individual's voice. Her commitment to ensuring fair and just elections will be forever remembered as a testament to her unwavering dedication. She enjoyed gardening, her yard, and MSU football and baseball. 

Ellen Rose is survived by her children, Libby (D.) Essary, Rodney (Sandy) Swilley; daughter-in-law Jane Swilley, grandchildren Shelley Swilley, Brandi Swilley, Suzanne (Richard) Vinson, David (Anna Marie) Stovall, Walker (Jasmine) Essary, Ryan (Leah) Essary; great-grandchildren Presley, Cole, Landry, Joseph, Cora Rose, Lucy, James, Norelle, Nathaniel, Cohen, Hollie Beth; great-great grandson Lukas; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Cecil Swilley; two sons Baby John Tilton Swilley and Carl Swilley.

Ellen Rose Thames Swilley leaves behind a lasting legacy characterized by compassion, love, and a deep commitment to serving others. Her dedication to the causes she believed in and her unwavering support for her family will be forever cherished and remembered. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the incredible life she led and honor the lasting impact she had on our lives.

 In lieu of flowers the family request donations to the Wounded Warriors Mississippi, 1357 Wade Patrick Rd, Brandon, MS 39042 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at  https://www.stjude.org/donate.