Mary Nell Waters

In Loving Memory of Mary Nell Ellison Waters

August 23, 1943 - January 29, 2026

"Throughout her 82 years, Mary Nell remained the heart of her family-a cornerstone of strength, kindness, and unwavering support."

A Life of Devotion

Mary Nell Ellison Waters, age 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Riceville, Tennessee, on the morning of Thursday, January 29, 2026. She began her final journey at 8:15 a.m., surrounded by the warmth and love of the children and grandchildren she spent her life devoted to.

Born on August 23, 1943, in Spring City, Mary Nell was the daughter of the late Clifford Roddy Ellison and Sudie Christine Cissom. She grew up in Meigs County and attended Ten Mile Elementary.

A Legacy of Faith

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Mary Nell was a member of the Holiness Faith at the Church of Jesus Christ of Grandview, under the leadership of Pastor Lawrence Waller. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she stood as a testament to the values of her church community.

Family & Heritage

Mary Nell was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Charles Waters; her second husband, Franklin David Waters; and her siblings: Jeffie Lee Ellison, Glen Doyle Ellison, and Wanda Faye Ellison Malone.

Her legacy of love continues through her children:

* Ricky C. Waters of Ten Mile

* Pamela Kay Roberts of the Ten Mile area

* Karen Trew (Allen) of the Peakland area

* Glenda Cowgill (John) of Evansville

* Brandon Scott Waters of Riceville

* Brian Harmon of Riceville

* Chloe Waters of Riceville

Cherished Grandmother to:

Megan Waters, Melanie Waters, Misti Branham, Deano Roberts, Carrie Johnson, Danielle Roberts, Amy Crawley, Falon Smith, Jace Trew, Scotty Queen, and Ashley Cowgill. She also leaves behind 22 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy and pride.

Service Information

Service arrangements will be announced at a later date. The family is being assisted with these arrangements by Companion Funeral & Cremation Service - Athens.

In her final years, she was able to remain in the comfort of her home thanks to the dedicated care of her family-a testament to the deep bonds she nurtured throughout her life.