Kitty Ellis Donnell

Kitty Ellis Donnell passed away peacefully at home in Austin, Texas on October 25, 2010. She was born April 1, 1921; the second child to Newnie W. and Margaret Una Ellis, a well-known Midland pioneering family. “Kitty” was nicknamed after a maternal aunt. She was a 1939 graduate of Midland High School and attended one year at Baylor College in Waco, but returned due to homesickness. Kitty married William Robert Donnell, “Billy Bob”, a naval pilot and geologist on October 21, 1948. A lovely union for 30 years produced three children, Robby, David, and Missy all growing up in Midland in a time when you knew everyone and they knew you. A Baptist during her early years, Kitty became an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Midland when she married and where she raised her family. She was a devout Christian and believed in her Lord and Savior. He provided her strength when she suffered a massive stroke at age 39. In spite of her physical limitations, she was able to maintain a nurturing home for her three small children. Kitty, at age 56 was devastated to lose her husband who was 60 at the time of his death. She soon thereafter became a grandmother to six grandchildren. Several years ago she moved to Austin to be close to her daughter and family. Kitty’s determination, spirituality, and courage were an inspiration to her family and all who knew her. She was delighted on many occasions to share her common birthday with Minister and good friend, Matthew Lynn of First Presbyterian Church. She was not only active in her church, but a longtime member of The Junior League of Midland. Many of her fondest memories were vacations and holiday gatherings at the family getaway on Inks Lake. A lovely and loving woman, Kitty will be missed by all who were privileged to have her in their lives. Her parents and husband preceded her in death. She is survived by her son William Robert Donnell IV of London England, his wife Martha Donnell and their children, Laura and Will; son John David Donnell, his wife Vicki of Midland and their children Tori and Addie; daughter Ellis Anne Moscoe “Missy”, her husband Newton Dee of Austin, Texas and their children Katie and Jon; brother Newnie Ellis and wife Charlotte of Midland; and a number of extended nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank all of the caretakers at The Summit at Westlake Hills who supported Kitty over the past several years. Graveside services are scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Saturday, November 6, 2010 at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Midland, 800 W. Texas Midland, TX 79701or Hospice of Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 100 Austin, Texas 78759.