LIMA -- Ellen M. Hanafee, age 78, passed away on September 29, 2025, at 7:18 am, at Kessler Estates. Ellen was born on October 29, 1946, in Lima, OH, to James T. and Beatrice M. (Golliday) Guthrie, who preceded her in death. On November 28, 1975, she married Michael J. Hanafee, who survives in Lima, OH.
A woman of grace and spirit, Ellen had a natural eye for beauty and detail. She delighted in shopping for the perfect outfit, always dressing with elegance and flair. Her love of redecorating made every home she lived in a reflection of her warmth and creativity-spaces that welcomed friends and family with comfort and charm. A devoted reader, she always had a good book nearby and loved sharing her favorites. She was a passionate fan of Ohio State Buckeye football, cheering on her team with pride every season.
Above all, Ellen's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife to Mike, sharing 49 years of marriage filled with love and partnership. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who cherished every moment spent with her growing family. Her legacy will live on in the traditions, laughter, and love she inspired.
In addition to her husband, Ellen is survived by her daughter, Sarah (Gary) Rubenstein of Raynham, MA and son, Steven Hanafee of Lima, OH, grandchildren: Anthony, Charlie, Braidon, Brianna and Kian, a great grandchild, Jaidon, siblings: Kathy (Donnie) Spyker of Columbus, OH, Tim Guthrie of Lima, OH, John Guthrie of Boston, MA, Sister, Mary (Chaz) Crompton of Laguna Woods, CA. She was preceded in death by an infant brother, James T. Guthrie.
There will be a Mass of Christian Burial held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:00 am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with Father Kent Kaufman officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery following the service.
Friends may visit on Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, SHAWNEE CHAPEL where an 8:00 pm parish wake service will follow visiting hours.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Valerie Warnock
September 30, 2025
Ellen was very good friend of mine. We were roommates for a time and shared upstairs/downstairs fun and laughter with some other Golden Girls. The laughter never stopped. I will never forget her and always remember her with great fondness. RIP Ellen
Amy Fleming
September 30, 2025
I was honored to spend time with Ellen and her amazing family. She was a beautiful, smart lady with a great sense of humor and had a lot of love to give. We will miss you all and you are all in my prayers
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