Lillian Grant Baker Ellison Greer

Lillian Grant Baker Ellison Greer, 99, formerly of Roanoke County, Va., passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2010. Born in Frostburg, Md., she was the daughter of the late Earl Clarkson and Blanche Hansel Baker. She is predeceased by her husband of six years, Carl Adolf Ellison, died 1940, the father of her two sons; and by her husband of 65 years, Luther Edward Greer, died 2006; a granddaughter, Kendall Paige Ellison; grandson, Wesley French Ellison; and three brothers, John Jacob Baker, Samuel Edward Baker, and Gene Albert Graybill.
She is survived by two sons, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Z. Ellison and wife, Mary, of Marietta, Ga., and Ronald E. Ellison and wife, Patricia, of Norfolk, Va.; four grandchildren, Charles Shuman, Brent Ellison, Peter Ellison and Melissa Ellison Franzmeier; nine great-grandchildren, Jarrod, Charles Jr. and Landis Shuman, Sarah and Caroline Ellison, Brenna, Tressa, Carissa and Reegan Franzmeier; one great-great-granddaughter, Syri Kayden Shuman; seven nieces; and eight nephews.
Lillian was a pre-World War II and early World War II era employee of the American Viscose Corporation. After her husband's entry into military service in 1945, she was employed by Pugh's Department Store until 1946. She entered the work force again in the early 50s with Kenrose Manufacturing Company as an inspector, and later with the Hal-Mode Corporation from which she retired. She and her husband made their home in Southeast Roanoke County (RFD#6/Mayflower Hills/Rutrough Road) from 1948 until his death in 2006. They were both long-time members of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, and developed friendships that were a large part of their lives. She was also known as "T" to her nieces and nephews.
Lillian was known as a good cook with boundless energy and a sweet and ready smile. She looked forward to the Christmas season for this was a time for the baking of her delicious fruitcakes and the making of Boiled Plum Pudding which she learned from her German mother. There was always room for a guest or neighbor at her table. She will be sorely missed by family and friends, and neighbors.
The family wishes to express our love and gratitude to all who helped and supported Dad as Mother began a losing battle with Dementia. The children of Blanch and Harry Young (Dad's sister and her husband) for their loving care and attention to both Mother and Dad, and Julius and Eleanor Shepheard, the excellent, caring and compassionate staff at Snyder's Nursing Home, Salem, Va., for their care of Mother since October 2008. Most importantly to dearest Anita and Mike Baker, who were our "eyes and ears" since we live away from Roanoke.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Oakey's Vinton Chapel, where the family will receive friends on Thursday, April 15, 2010, from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. The service will be conducted by the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Z. Ellison will take place 2 p.m. on Friday, April 16, 2010, at Oakey's Vinton Chapel. Burial will take place in Mountain View Cemetery following the service.