Mary Ellen Paramore (nee Gay) closed her eyes on this life on October 23 and opened them to see the face of Jesus. She was predeceased by her parents, Marion and Bessie Gay, her brother, Edward Gay and her husband, Charles Robert Paramore. She is survived by her children, Steve (Janene), Marion Medina (Ray) and Phillip (Soany), her grandchildren, Raymund Anthony Medina, Laura Medina Huggins, Phillip Michael Paramore, Joseph Paramore, Emily Paramore, Jonathan Paramore, Kayla Paramore and Jon Steven Paramore, and her great grandchildren Micah and Jayden Medina, and Bella, Theophilus and Gwynevere Paramore.
Mary Ellen was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, on January 7, 1931. She married Charles (Bob) Paramore on June 22, 1951, and the couple moved to Los Angeles, California, to finish their education. They later moved to Dallas, Texas, where they lived for over 60 years. During her time in California, Mary Ellen served as the Youth Director for a Baptist church in Los Angeles.
Mary Ellen was instrumental in building the family business, Museum Arts, in Dallas. She was an active member of her church and a gifted Bible teacher. Over her lifetime she taught Sunday School, many Bible studies, and she conducted Sunday worship services at the Walnut Place Nursing Facility for over 30 years.
Mary Ellen was a founding member of Forest Meadow Baptist Church in Dallas where she, along with another faithful member, cooked and served the Wednesday evening dinner for many years. Her cooking and entertaining skills were legendary as hundreds of dinner, shower and party guests can attest. She loved people and made everyone feel welcome whether in her home or in her church.
Mary Ellen was a beloved wife and mother, a much-loved grandmother and great-grandmother. She was also a champion for anyone in need. She spent her life serving others and seeking to bring hope and dignity to marginalized people. She was a valued friend to many and an example and mentor to many more. She was the eternal optimist who brought joy and happiness wherever she went.
A public viewing will take place on Thursday, October 29, from 5-8pm and a graveside service will be held on Friday at 1pm. In honor of Mary Ellen, the family requests that all visitors to both the viewing the service wear masks and observe social distancing.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18