Elda Maxine Ellis, 95, of Jackson died Thursday, Dec. 27, 2007, at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

She was born Feb. 24, 1912, at Oak Ridge, daughter of John Henry and Ina Agnes Penny Bowers. She and John I. Ellis were married Nov. 29, 1934. He died Oct. 21, 1986.

Ellis was a graduate of Oak Ridge High School. She received a bachelor of science degree in education, with major in music, from Southeast Missouri State University.

She was an elementary school music teacher with Jackson School District more than 20 years, retiring in 1968.

Ellis was a member of New McKendree United Methodist Church, organist more than 25 years, choir director more than 15 years, member and past president of WSCS, member and chairman of Dorcas Circle and member of the Quilting Club.

She was a 50-year member and past worthy matron of Jackson Chapter 91 Order of the Eastern Star, member and past president of Thursday Study Club, member of Beta Iota chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa and past member of the Jackson Library Board.

Survivors include a son, John E. (Dottie) Ellis of Jackson; a daughter, Nancy L. Ellis of Kirkwood, Mo.; two grandsons, Robert B. (Wendy) Ellis of Drummonds, Tenn., John E. (Diane) Ellis II of Batesville, Ark.; and a great-grandson, Robert J. Ellis of Jackson.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Leon Bowers.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Cracraft-Miller Funeral Home.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with the Revs. John Rice and Jimmie Corbin officiating. Burial will be in Cape County Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to New McKendree Methodist Music Fund.