Ellen Bane Hull

Marion, VA 

Ellen Bane Hull passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at the age of 95. She was a woman of many interests and remained passionate about learning throughout her life. Among other things, she enjoyed music, literature, history, art, and traveling. She appreciated good conversation, the changing of the seasons, watching birds from her back porch, flowers, and sunsets.

After graduating from Hazard High School in Kentucky at the age of 16 and from Hollins College (now Hollins University) at age 20, she began her teaching career in Hazard, where she became known as "the teacher on roller skates" due to her unique mode of transportation to the school. After her divorce, she relocated with her mother and children to Marion, VA, where her parents were raised. She continued her teaching career locally, at First United Methodist Church kindergarten, third and fourth grades at Atkins Elementary School, and fourth grade at Marion Intermediate School. She concluded her working career as the circulation director at the Smyth-Bland Regional Library and later served on the library's Board of Directors, including as president.

A classically trained pianist during her studies at Hollins, she used her musical talents in service to the community. When her children were young, she served as the Sunday school pianist and co-founder of the junior choir at Christ Episcopal Church. In later years, she was a guest accompanist for the Ebenezer Lutheran Church choir and performed at numerous events throughout the area.

Ms. Hull was a loyal friend and a wonderful mother. She took enormous pride in both of "her" towns, Hazard and Marion. She appreciated her many years of good health and demonstrated tremendous courage as her health declined over the last two years. As she wished, she was able to remain in her home until the end, thanks to the commitment of her family and dedicated caregivers.

She was predeceased by her parents, Walter A. Hull and Katherine B. Hull. Her survivors include her daughter, Katherine O. Foreman of Roanoke; her son, Lewis H. Foreman of Bristol; and her daughter-in-law, Denise G. Foreman. She is also survived by her special cousin, Martha Hull Copenhaver of Williamsburg, VA, and her lifelong friend, Nan Hagan Gorman of Hazard, KY.

Graveside funeral service will be held at Round Hill Cemetery on Sunday, October 27, at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor James Bangle officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barter Theatre in her memory. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home is serving the family.