Ella Heaton

Brevard - Ella Mae Heaton (Paris) passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026. She was born in 1930 in Henderson County to the late William Cedric Paris and Mae Hoots Paris. A few years later, she became a devoted older sister to William "Bill" Parris. Following the death of their mother, Ella lovingly stepped into the role of caregiver to her younger brother, a responsibility she carried with grace and devotion.
Ella married Thomas B. Heaton, and together they built a life filled with love, curiosity, and adventure. Upon retirement, Ella and Tommy traveled extensively, finding great joy in RV'ing across the country. Ella especially loved the beach, splitting their time between Hendersonville and Ocean Isle. Because of her deep love for the ocean, Hawaii held a special place in her heart as her favorite travel destination. They delighted in sharing these adventures with their nieces and nephews, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.
Their travels also took them abroad, including several trips to China, where they met Jon and Sophie Ling. Jon and Sophie became cherished members of Ella and Tommy's family. Having no children of their own, Ella and Tommy embraced them as their own and were overjoyed to be grandparents to Mae and Lauren, a role that brought Ella immense happiness.
Ella had a tender heart for animals, especially dogs, and she loved each of her own as true members of her family, Tinky, Bridgett, Sandy, and Kimsey-while her compassion also extended to all creatures great and small, including a cottontail bunny she lovingly named Baby, whom she faithfully fed and watched over- an expression of Ella's gentle spirit and lifelong kindness.
Ella is survived by her brother, Bill Parris; half-siblings, Freda Bacon and Mike Paris; nephews Charles Parris, Tommy Parris, Gerald Parris, and Geoff Heaton; niece Stephanie Heaton King; along with many other beloved nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her half brother, Wayne Paris, and her sister-in-law, Lucy Parris.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Shirley's Angels and the remarkable caregivers whose compassion, friendship, and dedicated care meant so much to Ella over the past year. They also wish to thank Four Seasons Hospice for their exceptional nurses and the comfort and support they provided to Ella and her family.
Ella will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Shepherd Memorial Park 2pm, Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Family and friends are invited to attend the graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice at
https://fourseasonsfdn.org/ways-to-give/give-today/
or to a local animal shelter of your choice.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.