Elida Whiddon

Elida "Ellie" Ramirez Whiddon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend, entered the presence of the Lord on Monday, July 6, 2026, at the age of 87. Though her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in knowing she lived a life marked by unwavering faith, genuine kindness, generous hospitality, and deep love for those around her. Ellie leaves behind a legacy of grace, service, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Ellie was born on September 15, 1938, in Poth, Texas, and grew up in San Antonio. Throughout her life, she was known for her warm smile, impeccable sense of style, and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and cared for.

Ellie enjoyed a successful career as a hairstylist for more than 40 years, working in respected salons throughout San Antonio, Houston, Conroe, and Sugar Land. She loved helping others look and feel their best, and many of her clients became lifelong friends.

Following her retirement, Ellie devoted much of her time to Christ Church in Sugar Land, where her faith continued to flourish. She faithfully served in the church choir, participated in women's Bible studies, and became a trusted mentor and treasured friend to many women. Through her wisdom, encouragement, and servant's heart, she became a pillar of her church community.

Her love for studying God's Word remained a constant throughout her life. Whether participating in Bible Study Fellowship, women's Bible studies, mission trips, or volunteer opportunities, Ellie found great joy in serving others and growing in her faith.

Ellie also embraced a vibrant social life. She was an active member of the Red Hat Society and the Christian Women's Club in Sugar Land, serving as chairwoman for two years. She delighted in opening her home to others, hosting luncheons, dinner parties, and afternoon teas. Every gathering reflected her thoughtful attention to detail, from beautifully arranged tables to the warm hospitality that made each guest feel special.

Ellie loved to express her creativity in various ways. She loved sewing, embroidery, quilting, and cross-stitch, creating beautiful handmade pieces that her family will treasure for years to come. She also had an eye for fashion and carried herself with timeless elegance.

Ellie's love was perhaps most evident in her kitchen. Most days she could be found wearing one of her many colorful aprons while preparing homemade soups or favorite Mexican dishes for family and friends. If given the choice, she would always choose a home-cooked meal shared around the table.

Ellie met the love of her life, Wesley "Wes," on a blind date in San Antonio in 1962. After a brief courtship, they were married on November 24, 1962, in the chapel at Kelly Air Force Base. Together they built a beautiful life, raising their children, Michael and Rebecca, in Houston and Conroe. Through nearly 64 years of marriage, their relationship was a beautiful example of steadfast love, commitment, and faithfulness.

Nothing brought Ellie greater joy than her family. She was a devoted mother and an even prouder grandmother to Haley Morris Dupuis, Jordan Morris Gum, Walker Whiddon, and Marshall Whiddon. She delighted in celebrating each grandchild's accomplishments, making them her famous waffles, cheering from the sidelines, and sharing stories about them with anyone who would listen. Her family was her greatest blessing and the source of her deepest pride.

Ellie was preceded in death by her beloved son, Michael Scott Whiddon; her parents, Benito Sr. and Felipa Ramirez; her sister, Hope Rodriguez; and her brothers, Adam Ramirez, Benito Jr. Ramirez, Benicio Ramirez, and Benino Ramirez.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Wesley Whiddon; her daughter, Rebecca Whiddon Morris (Trey); her daughter-in-law, Patricia Whiddon Benson; her granddaughters, Haley Morris Dupuis and Jordan Morris Gum (Elic); her grandsons, Walker Whiddon and Marshall Whiddon; and her brothers, Benjamin Ramirez (Abby) and Baldemar Ramirez (Marci), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Heart to Heart Hospice and to Ellie's devoted caregiver, Vivian Komukyeya, for the compassionate care, kindness, and dignity they provided during her final days.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Church, 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Music Ministry at Christ Church.

Those who knew Ellie will remember her for her unwavering faith, her generous heart, her welcoming home, and the quiet ways she made others feel loved. Her life was a beautiful reflection of God's grace, and her legacy will live on in the family she cherished, the friends she encouraged, and the countless lives she touched.