Mary Ellen Nunnelly

Mary Ellen McCrary Nunnelly was born on November 30, 1934 in Plantersville, Alabama. The youngest of four children, she spent much of her childhood in small Alabama towns, adored by her mother, Daisye, and lovingly coddled by her sister and two brothers. Eventually the family settled in Hueytown, where Mary Ellen hosted and sang on her own radio program, competed in the Miss Alabama pageant, met her lifelong best friend and, most importantly, met the love of her life, Tommy.

Mary Ellen was musically gifted and blessed with a heavenly voice. Tommy first heard that voice one Sunday morning when she sang a solo at church. He turned to his mother and declared, “Who is that angel? I’m going to marry her one day.” And he did. Mary Ellen and Tommy were happily married for more than six decades. Together they built a beautiful life in Atlanta, raising three children, loving and spoiling nine grandchildren, and later welcoming great-grandchildren. Mary Ellen was a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, and a gentle and kind presence.

Though she is leaving behind many who love her, the imprint of her life will never fade. She will be remembered in the lives she nurtured, the family she cherished, the music she shared, and the love she gave so freely. And while her absence will be deeply felt, there is great comfort in knowing that Mary Ellen is finally Home—with Jesus, whom she loved and faithfully served, and with family for whom she longed.

The family will honor Mary Ellen with a graveside service at a later date.