Ellen McKibben

Ellen Hawkins McKibben, a vibrant soul known for her loving kindness and forthright spirit, passed away at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville, TN, on the 19th of August, 2025. Born on September 2, 1960, in Clarksdale, MS to the late Woodley Hawkins and Hazel Morgan Hawkins, Ellen's infectious warmth touched everyone she met throughout her 64 years of life. Ellen will be profoundly missed by her devoted husband, Dean McKibben, who stood by her as a pillar of strength and partnership. She leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom in her daughter, Liza McKibben, and her son, Drew Prahl, who, along with his wife Randi, cherished every moment spent with her. Her faith in Jesus was the centerpiece of her life, which affected her family as she embraced every role with tenderness and an unwavering dedication. Her son, Tyler Prahl, whom she held dear, preceded her in death, and she is now reunited with him in eternal peace. The bond of family ran deep through Ellen's life, which is evident in her close-knit relationships with her sisters, Phyllis Campbell, Barbara Hunter and her husband Bob, Brenda Bennett and her husband Fred, Kim Pijma and her husband Ray; and her brothers, Ronnie Hawkins and his wife Mandy, and Butch Hawkins and his wife Dottie. She was dedicated to her Christian beliefs, which guided and shaped her throughout her lifetime. She was a member of Faith Fellowship Church in Grenada, MS, and had more recently been attending Discovery Church in Pontotoc, MS and Mt. Zion Church in Dumas, MS. Professionally, Ellen was the respected office manager at 4-Way Electric, where her sharp wit, attention to detail, and managerial skills greatly contributed to the success and warm atmosphere of the company. Ellen's zest for life and her 'tell it like it is' approach endeared her to many. Her authenticity was only matched by her tender-hearted nature, making her not only a pillar in her family but also a beloved figure in her community. She sought joy in the simplicity of spending precious time with her family and found solace in the love and laughter that filled those shared moments. A visitation will be at United Funeral Service in New Albany on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until funeral service time at 2:00 p.m. United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Ellen McKibben, please visit our Tree Store.