Elouise Durrell

Born on March 20, 1957, in Ashland, Alabama, Elouise was a radiant spirit - a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and cherished friend. She was the beloved daughter of John Hann, Jr. and Ruth Turman Hann and grew up amidst the warmth of a large family, one of ten siblings. From her early years, Elouise's steadfast dedication to faith, family, and service illuminated the lives of those around her. A woman of formidable spirit and deep faith, Elouise accepted Christ at an early age and united with Springhill Missionary Baptist Church. Later in life she continued working in the Lord's vineyard while attending New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, proudly serving as an usher. Her life journey led her and her family to Newburgh, New York, where she graduated from Newburgh Free Academy class of 1975. Soon after graduation, she met her husband, Minister Robert Lee Durrell, with whom she joyfully welcomed her only daughter, Madeline. Their journey took them across various locales due to Minister Durrell's military service, but eventually, the family returned to the familiar embrace of Ashland. With her husband being a man of God, she visited various churches continuing to fulfill her faith and trust in the Lord. Here, Elouise built a successful career as a hand sander at Wellborn Cabinets, though her greatest accomplishments were found in her family, whom she treasured above all. Ms. Durrell's heart overflowed with love, especially for her great-grandson, affectionately known as "Pumpkin," whom she considered her own. She was the epitome of kindness; a nurturing soul whose love and wisdom enhanced the lives of everyone she encountered. Known for her vivacious spirit, Elouise delighted in family gatherings, cooking, and celebrating life. She was a fashion queen, her hair and nails impeccably styled, embodying grace and vibrancy in all she did. Her love for travel and football games brought her immense joy, while moments of quietude were spent in the pages of her favorite books. As we reflect on her extraordinary life, we find comfort in the thought that Elouise's spirit now dances freely in the heavenly realm as she embarks on her journey towards eternal peace. On Friday morning, August 1, 2025, as the heavens opened their gates to welcome our angel, Ms. Elouise Durrell, she will be remembered for her genuine spirit, compassion, and dedication to all who crossed her path. In her passing, she now joins her husband, Minister Robert Lee Durrell, parents John and Ruth Hann, Jr., brothers, John E. (Alice) Hann, Rev. Marvin Hann, Walter Gay Hann, Durell (Helen Cochran Edwards) Hann, and David Hann. As time winds its course, we look ahead to a future where Ms. Durrell's spirit transcends this earthly realm, as she embarks on her journey towards eternal peace. On Thursday morning, August 1, 2025, as the heavens open their gates to welcome an angel, Ms. Elouise Durrell will be remembered for her genuine spirit, compassion, and dedication to all who crossed her path. In her passing, she now joins her husband, Robert Lee Durrell, parents John and Ruth Hann, Jr., brothers, John E. (Alice) Hann, Rev. Marvin Hann, Walter Gay Hann, Durell (Helen Cochran Edwards) Hann, and David Hann. In the tapestry of memories that remain, Ms. Durrell leaves behind a legacy woven with love, laughter, and unwavering familial ties. Her presence will forever resonate in the hearts of her only loving and devoted daughter, Madeline Durrell (Stanford) Simmons; step-daughter, Rolonda Davis Durrell (Brian) Gibson; grandson, Shamari (Ladreka Wilson) Simmons; her adorable little "Pumpkin" and the apple of her eye, great-grandson, Kaiden Simmons; step-grandchildren, Brandon Gibson and Cameron Gibson; special friend, Ted Searcy; brother, Timothy (Rochelle) Hann; three sisters, Mary (James) West, Ida (Larry) Bishop, and Lesia Hann; sisters-in-law, Janie Hann, Ann Hann, and Virginia Durrell; brothers-in-law, Johnnie (Patricia) Durrell and Terry (Lenail) Dorcey; and a multitude of loving, caring, and adorable nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. As we bid her farewell, let us carry forward her legacy of love, faith, and compassion, allowing her memory to resonate in our hearts for all the days to come. Ms. Elouise Durrell will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the lives of those she touched so profoundly.