Mary Ellen Fults

Mary Ellen was born on November 18, 1937, in Tampa, Florida, where she spent her childhood at 2920 Wallcraft Avenue. She attended Ballast Point Elementary School, Wilson Middle School, and graduated from Plant High School in 1956.

A devoted Christian and lifelong member of Bayshore United Methodist Church, where her family were founding members, Mary Ellen faithfully served as a Sunday school teacher, sharing her love of God with children. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life, guiding her through every joy and challenge with steady trust.

Her Christian life was a true testament to her deep spiritual devotion. Mary Ellen was a woman of great dignity, strength, and enduring grace. She lived her beliefs not only in word, but in action, and her steady spirit served as a guiding light to her family and all who knew her.

Mary Ellen met her loving husband, Clarence ‘Ray Fults’, in junior high school. They were married in 1957 and were together until Ray’s passing in 2018. Together, they built a life centered on family, shared values, and commitment to each other.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clarence ‘Ray’ Fults; her parents, Allen and Mary Lou Hampton; her brothers, Quentin, Bob, Wesley, and John (“Mickey”) Hampton; and her sister, Sara Stout.

She is survived by her loving children: Jay Fults (Sandi Fults), Sara Kay Bonti (Ray Bonti), and Leslie Graff; her cherished grandchildren: Jason Fults, Marci Fults (Michael Armstrong), Chris Bonti (Mallorie Bonti), Katie Bonti (Philip Fellows), Aaron Graff, and Ashley Graff; and her great-grandchildren: Madison, Ellie, and Wyatt. She was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her great-granddaughter, Lulu, who will be born in late May 2026.

Nothing in life was more important to Mary Ellen than her family. She had a joyful spirit, a warm and easy laugh, and a wonderfully silly sense of humor that made her so much fun to be around. She was especially loved by children, who were naturally drawn to her playful spirit and kindness. Everyone always wanted to be at Mary Ellen’s house.

She was lovingly known as “Nanny” and brought light, comfort, and laughter to everyone in her life. She loved her yard, gardening, and spending time on her front porch, where many cherished conversations and quiet moments were shared. Mary Ellen lived with grace, strength, happiness, and a calm assurance that carried her through every season of life.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hafeez Chatoor of Florida Cancer Specialists for the compassionate care and support provided to Mary Ellen over the years.

Her legacy of love, devotion, and joy will live on in all who knew and loved her.

A Graveside Service will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4207 E Lake Ave Tampa, FL 33610, on April 7, 2026, at 10:00 am.