Ellen Porter, 94, of Fort Wayne, IN, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family. Born in Pineville, KY on March 15, 1932. Ellen was the 10th child of 12 born to James Knuckles and Lillie Mae (née. Napier) Knuckles, Bird Branch, KY.
She moved to Fort Wayne in 1953 and worked at Rae Magnet Wire and then Harry's Big and Tall store as a seamstress retiring after 20 years.
She married Marvin F. Porter on April 14, 1956. They were married for 56 years at his passing. She had two children, Rodney W. Porter and Sandra J. Headley, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Ellen was a longtime member of East Allen Church of Christ. Ellen enjoyed cooking for her family, gardening, sewing and traveling.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Marvin F. Porter; her parents; and all 11 of her siblings.
She is survived by her son, Rodney W. Porter, of Fort Wayne; daughter, Sandra (Tom) Headley, of Roanoke; her grandchildren, Amber Porter of Fort Wayne, Andrea Heiser of Wabash and Kyle Heiser of Wabash; and her great-grandchildren, Ariana Collins of Roanoke, Tate Melchi Jr. Fort Wayne, Tiana Melchi of Fort Wayne and Lily Haynes of Wabash.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM -12:00 PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue (46805). Her funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM. Burial will be in Highland Park Cemetery.
Memorial Donations can be made to East Allen County Church of Christ (for Missions). https://eacchurchofchrist.org/
Fond memories may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the family.
