Sally Ellis Tierney

On May 31, 2026, the world lost a vibrant soul, as Sally Ellis Tierney peacefully passed away at the age of 88. Born on April 24, 1938, in Fredericktown, Missouri, Sally was the cherished daughter of Wendell and Eugenia Ellis. She was raised alongside her siblings, Yvonne, Carolyn, Ivan, and Mimi, in a loving family that nurtured her gentle spirit and unwavering faith. Sally's life was a testament to love, dedication, and service. She graduated from Fredericktown High School in 1956, and soon after, she embarked on a career that spanned over 25 years at Shell Oil Company in Houston, Texas. As a secretary, Sally was known for her meticulous attention to detail and her warm, welcoming demeanor, which left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. In November 1960, Sally married the love of her life, John T. Tierney, in her hometown of Fredericktown. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three wonderful children: Mary Tierney Racer, Beth Tierney Jablonski (husband Jeff), and John (Jack) Tierney. Her family was her greatest joy, and she delighted in her role as a grandmother to Brian Racer and Daniel Racer, who brought her endless happiness and pride. Sally's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She actively participated in her church community and dedicated herself to serving others through various prison ministries in both Houston, Texas, and Jackson, Missouri. Her compassionate heart and unwavering dedication touched countless lives, offering hope and kindness wherever she went. Upon retiring, Sally returned to Missouri, settling in Jackson to be closer to her family and the breathtaking landscapes of the Ozarks. Here, she indulged her love of nature, tending to her vibrant flower gardens that were a reflection of her own colorful spirit. Her home was always filled with the joyful presence of her beloved dogs—Shadow, Honey, Spice, and Joy. In her final years, Joy became a devoted service dog, embodying the unwavering loyalty Sally had always shown to those she loved. Sally is predeceased by her parents, Wendell and Eugenia Ellis, and her sister, Yvonne Ellis Godzwon. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister Carolyn Ellis Rhoades, brother Ivan G. Ellis (wife Lou), sister Mimi Ellis (husband David), and numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory and continue her legacy of love and kindness. A service to celebrate Sally's life will be held on June 5, 2026, at 2:00 PM at St. Michaels Catholic Church, located at 400 W. Main St, Fredericktown, MO 63645. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to America - Capetown for the compassionate care they provided to Sally in the last three years of her life. Sally Ellis Tierney's life was a tapestry of love, faith, and service, woven together with grace and warmth. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.