Ellen Grace (Kittle) Reel passed away May 1, 2020 with her beloved soulmate Denver Delauder holding her hand. They were united in love for 48 years. They had one daughter, Tara Dawn Reel, who will carry on her legacy. Ellen promised to watch over them until they meet again. She was joyfully reunited in the early morning hours with her son John Michael and heard “Welcome home, Gracie” from her brother Wortie. Her parents, Wib and Katie Kittle, along with countless other loved ones, were there to greet her as well. Ellen had been hospitalized and separated from her family due to the pandemic, but they found ways to let her know they were with her. Her wonderful ICU nurse Erin promised Denver she would reunite them. Though she and the other medical staff did everything to heal her, God had other plans. Healthcare staff at United Hospital Center and the Good Samaritan went above and beyond to allow her soulmate and daughter to say goodbye to her under current conditions. For that, they will be eternally grateful. Ellen will be remembered by her loved ones for her beautiful blue eyes, and her loving and caring nature. She often thought of others more than she thought of herself and made many sacrifices throughout her life. She was a survivor. Ellen survived domestic violence and became a single mother at a tender age. Ellen would fight illness for most of her life. Despite suffering a weak heart, she loved and was profoundly loved by those closest to her. In the end, she fought valiantly to be with her loved ones for as long as she could. It is that love they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Love never dies. Her brother David and wife Vickie took Ellen into their home after her illness progressed. They created many memories over the years she wants them to cherish. She wants her brother Larry and wife Janet to know she was grateful for their 8pm evening phone calls. She will no doubt be sorely missed by her brother Tom, her sister-in-law Patty, many nephews and nieces, and her grandchildren. People from all over the world lit candles in her honor following news of her passing. Due to the pandemic, a traditional service will not be held due to the health and safety concerns for others. The family plans on holding a private memorial in remembrance when it is safe to do so. In lieu of funeral services, if you wish to honor her memory, the family asks you to do so in your daily life. Do one intentional act of kindness a day. Think more about what you can give instead of what you receive. Be useful, honorable, and compassionate. Make some difference that you have lived and lived well. Ellen would want you to know that you can whisper her name in your heart, and she will be there with you always. The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins will oversee the arrangements for Ellen Grace Reel. Ellen’s Facebook page will also remain open and all are welcome to post memories and final words to her there.
