Barbara Ann "Boots" Ellis

Barbara Ann "Boots" Ellis passed away Thursday, February 26 ending a fulfilling 87-year life on this earth and beginning an eternal life with Jesus in heaven. Up until the end Boots maintained her zest for life, including her humor and occasional unfiltered comments.

Boots was born Barbara Ann Bahnsen on April 10, 1934. Her mother Genevieve later married William Lilje but Barbara kept the surname Bahnsen.

Barbara became Barbara Ann Ellis on June 29, 1963 when she married James Aubrey (Rex) Ellis. They were married for 43 years until Rex's passing in 2006. Rex was the love of her life and she took pride in his music career which included 20 years of guitar picking at the Opry.

She had a love for animals, with dogs being at the top of her list. Boots was not happy when Addie could not be around, and Addie will certainly miss her Mommie, but has been placed in a new, loving home already acquainted with Addie and Boots.

Boots loved Alabama football and all that went with it. She loved plants, sewing and needlework, collecting recipes, and being at home. She did not like hospitals and hated the thought of being in a care facility. She wanted to be at home, and that's where she was when she departed this life.

Boots is survived by Rex's brother John, some remote family members, and an army of friends from church and her career with Dupont. She will be greatly missed and forever cherished.

There will be a gathering of friends and family for fellowship on Monday, March 2 at the Chapel of First Baptist Church Hendersonville starting at 12:00 noon. A service will follow at 2pm with Dr. Bruce Chesser officiating. A public graveside service will be held on a forthcoming date at Spring Hill Cemetery in Nashville where Boots will be laid to rest beside Rex.

Flowers should be delivered to the First Baptist Chapel on Monday, March 2 by noon. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Baptist Church Music Ministry or a pet organization of your choice.