Ellen Ester Eldridge

In loving memory, we gather to celebrate and honor the life of Ellen Ester Eldridge, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and beloved friend. Ellen, born on November 8, 1944, in the heart of Limerick City, Ireland, peacefully departed this world on April 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Daughter of the late Terence and Christina Whelan, affectionately known as "Mama and Dada," Ellen was raised in a home filled with warmth and laughter. She shared her childhood with her siblings Terence Jr., Gerard, Delores, and Mary. As time went on, Ellen found the love of her life, Robert Eldridge, with whom she shared an enduring marriage until his passing. Together, Ellen and Robert raised a beautiful family, instilling values of love, kindness, and resilience in their children: Steven Eldridge, Billy Eldridge and his wife Lonnie, Coleen Mayberry and her husband Barkley, Kerry Eldridge, and Robert Eldridge and his wife Mandy. Ellen was a proud grandmother to Garrett Sogineir, Ryan Gautreaux and his wife Dawn, Nicolette Binkley and her husband Dylan, Dani Pardon and her husband Thomas, Terry Dawson and his wife Shelby, Ethan Eldridge, and Blane Eldridge. She was further blessed to welcome six great-grandchildren into the world, each carrying a piece of her loving spirit. Ellen dedicated much of her life to serving others through her work as a waitress and hostess. Her career was a testament to her unwavering work ethic and her innate ability to make everyone feel at home. Beyond her professional life, Ellen was an avid shopper and a passionate poet. Her words, often infused with her quick wit and unique sense of humor, brought joy and reflection to those who were fortunate enough to read them. Known for always seeing the best in people, even in the most challenging times, Ellen was a beacon of hope and positivity. Her infectious laughter and kind heart left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. A service to celebrate Ellen's remarkable life will be held on May 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church, located at 3323 Bethlehem Rd., Springfield, TN 37172. Family and friends are invited to gather and share in the memories of a life well-lived. The Eldridge family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Skyline Medical Center for their compassionate care during Ellen's final days. Ellen's legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered for the joy she brought to our lives. May she rest in peace, reunited with her beloved Robert and family who have gone before her.