Ella Fern Wright Binzen

Beloved mother, sister, aunt, and “Nana”, Mrs. Ella Fern Binzen passed peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones. Born in 1937 in Strawberry, Arkansas, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Binzen; her son, Gary Wright; and daughters, Susan Mayberry and Lavonne Binzen. She was the youngest of the six children of Odessa and Luther Wright, and is survived by her oldest brother, Bill Wright of Rockford IL.

It was the honor of her remaining children to shower love on their mom in her final days: Anita Harrelson, Bonnie (Dave) Caruso, Carla (Donnie) Daniel, Jeff (Tammy) Binzen, and Duane (Amanda) Binzen. She was “Nana” to 22 grandchildren and great grandma to 18 and was lovingly teased as “the little old woman who lived in a shoe.”

As a young mother, she and George moved their family from Joliet IL to Mount Pleasant SC where they shared their life and love for 42 years. They developed a number of deep relationships with George’s coworkers at BP/Amoco over the 35 years of his employment, including friends they made overseas when living in Malaysia. Most recently she has been under the loving care of her family in Goldston NC.

In her younger years, Ella was an outdoor enthusiast, participating in league sports such as softball and bowling. She and George also enjoyed boating and fishing. The most prevalent memories, however, are of her bingo nights and handiwork in beading crafts. Her children will remember her generosity and acceptance above all things. She was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of a service, the family covets your prayers and welcomes your comments below. Further acknowledgment can be made by a donation to Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Binzen family.