Ella Laura Pettus, daughter to Scott Ervin Pettus and Mary Ellen Payne Pettus, was born on Tuesday, March 6, 1934 in Clarksville, Tennessee. Her first husband and father of her children, George Graves; second husband, Isaiah Allen; children: Michael Graves, Kenneth Graves, and Frances Graves; stepchildren: Elizabeth Gardner and Johnny Allen; her parents; 10 siblings: Gus Pettus, Julius Pettus, Charlie Pettus, Lewis Pettis, Sr., Robert Pettus, Sr., Anna Buck, Nannie Merriweather, Margaret Smith, Genevieve McKeage and Ellen Fowler preceded her in death.

She gave her life to Christ at an early age and was a member Concord Missionary Baptist Church where she faithfully served as a member of the Mothers Board; Mass Choir; Ladies Chorus, Usher Board; Sunday School Teacher; Pastor’s Aide and Blue Pheobe Ministry. She was also a member of the People Helping People Choir and the Foston Memorial Choir. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23. She attended the Clarksville Baptist School of Religion.

Ella received her education in the Montgomery County School System where she attended and graduated from the Historic Burt High School.

In 1952, Ella entered into holy matrimony with George Graves, welcoming seven children into the world. In 1981, Ella united with Isaiah Allen where she gained five stepchildren. Ella was the pillar of her family; she stood as the unwavering foundation upon which all else was built. Her strength and resilience provided a sense of stability that permeated every aspect of their lives. Whether it was through her nurturing presence during challenging times or her ability to foster unity among family members, she consistently demonstrated an extraordinary capacity for support and guidance. Her wisdom and compassion not only inspired those around her but also instilled a deep sense of security, allowing each individual to flourish in their own right. In essence, she was not merely a member of the family; she was its heart and soul, the essential force that held them together through life’s inevitable trials and tribulations.

She loved spending time with family and friends; enjoyed listening to gospel music and watching westerns on television. Her favorite song “Come See About Me;” favorite color, blue. All who knew and loved her will sorely miss her presence and beautiful smile.

She had faith of a mustard seed up until she took her last breath. On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Ella’s earthly journey ended peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

She leaves precious memories to be cherished by her daughter, Gloria (William) Dixon; sons: George (Romona) Graves, Jr., Anthony Graves, and Arthur (Sylvia) Graves; stepchildren: Derrick Allen, Isaiah (Mary) Allen, and Rodney (Beverly) Allen; all of Clarksville, TN; devotedgrandchildren: Shanavika Davis-Jackson, Dawn Graves, Anthony Graves, Jr., Giovanni Graves, and DerMesha Graves; sisters-in-law: Celeste Pettus, Laura Boyce, Betty Coleman, Katherine Hoosier, Susie Tramil, and Eula Ortega; godson, Carl Hall; goddaughter, Kathleen Owens, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.