Ellen CANTRELL

Spokane - In loving memory of Ellen Sue Cantrell, who left an incredible mark on the lives of those who knew her.  Sue was born in Rohwer, AR, on Oct. 13, 1944. She went peacefully to Heaven with her beloved husband, Randy, by her side, holding her hand as she passed.  Sue had many different careers and hobbies. It didn't matter if you met her in the courtroom, gardening club, counseling session, in a grocery store, antique store, at a table in Seabeck, or in a meeting, you walked away feeling special and loved.  She met her husband, Randy, while she was working at a diner when she was only 17, and it was love at first sight for both of them. They had a love that you only see in movies.  She loved to talk and touched the hearts of everyone she met. She was truly a Southern woman. Many of us will never hear the words, or even forget her saying, "Bless your heart," "That's nice," or "Put your big girl panties on."  She was a friend of Lois W. for over 44 years. She lived and walked the program every day. She was always willing to share her experience strength and hope with anyone that reached out. She was a Delegate of panel 53 "WE, not ME" and she lived by that theme.  Sue and Randy were foster parents to many and adopted two brothers, Ron and John, whom they considered gifts from God.  Sue is survived by her husband and love of her life for over 63 years, Randy Cantrell of Spokane, WA; and son, Ron Cantrell of Santa Cruz, CA.  She was preceded in death by her son, John Cantrell; her parents, John and Lee Kilcrease; and her siblings, James Kilcrease, Tom Kilcrease, Gorman Kilcrease, Ricky Benton, Sitis Wilson, Joan Bordeaux, Billie George, and Zerl Manship. Though she may have departed this world, her spirit will live on forever among us, a shining beacon of love, laughter, and unwavering strength. She will always be one of a kind. God told her He only made one Ellen Sue Cantrell and today... Heaven is better with her in it. The funeral service will be held May 22, 2024, at 10 am at Mary Queen Catholic Church, 3423 E. Carlisle Ave., Spokane, WA, with a celebration of life to follow in the church Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, Randy respectfully requests if you want you can donate to the Blinded Veterans Association or Lou Gehrig Disease.