Ela Ruth (Bankston) McCullough

Ela Ruth Bankston McCullough, 91, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away peacefully at the age of 91.

Ela Ruth was born on August 16, 1934, in the small West Texas town of Moran. She attended Tarleton State University, where she met the love of her life, Jack D. McCullough. The couple married and embarked on a life shaped by Jack's military service and academic pursuits. They lived in Austin, Georgia and later at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, during Jack's time in the military.

The family eventually settled in Houston, Texas, where Jack served in the National Guard while teaching high school. They later moved to College Station as Jack earned his PhD. Soon after, they relocated to Nacogdoches, where Jack accepted a position as a professor at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU). Ela Ruth pursued her master's degree during this time and began a fulfilling career with Nacogdoches Independent School District (Nacogdoches ISD), where she dedicated many years of service until her retirement.

Ela Ruth and Jack built a loving family. While living at Fort Belvoir, they welcomed their son Thomas Lee McCullough. Later, in Houston, their second son, Bruce Fred McCullough, was born.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack, who passed away in 2013, and her son Bruce, who passed away in 2015.

Ela Ruth is survived by her son Thomas Lee McCullough and his wife Maria of Houston, Texas; her sister Fredda Porter; nephew Robby Bankston; and her grandchildren Lindsay Allen, her husband Victor Allen and their daughter Landrie Allen; Miles McCullough, and Fred A. McCullough.

Ela Ruth lived a life marked by devotion to her family, education, and community. She will be remembered for her grace, strength, and the quiet love she shared with those around her. Her legacy endures through her family and the many lives she touched over the years.

Funeral arrangements are pending, and the family asks for thoughts and prayers during this time of loss.

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