The Richmond News, Nov. 3, 2023

Ellen Elizabeth MacDonald, 67, of Richmond passed away Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, at her home. Ellen was born on Feb. 1, 1956, in Lexington, the daughter of Howard and Jean (Bryant) Baker. Survivors include her son, Jason (Kim) Christian of Lee’s Summit; daughter, Meghan (Ray) Lee of Punta Gorda, Fla.; five grandchildren, Tanner Christian, Brianna Christian, Danica Christian, Dylan Lee and Caydence Lee; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, Cathy (Mike) Habermehl of St. Joseph and Laura Baker of Richmond; stepbrother, Phil (Ann) Bengston of Versailles, Ky.; stepsister, Lois Ann (Wayne) Douglas of Raleigh, N.C.; niece and nephew; and many good friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her stepfather, Daniel Bengston.

Ellen grew up as a member of the Richmond United Methodist Church. She was a 1974 graduate of Richmond High School.

Following high school, she graduated from the Research College of Nursing. She was an excellent nurse, so appreciated by those in her care. She inspired other nurses with her gentle touch and expertise.

Her life was filled with her beloved cat, Ke-Ke; her compassion for all animals; and an endless love for her family and friends. Her hobbies included being one with nature, collecting vintage items and listening to her music. You would often hear her cheering for a Kansas City sports team. She never missed a Chiefs game.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Ellen MacDonald Memorial Fund for help to rescue and relocate the feral cat community near her home. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 11, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. and services to follow at 2.

Inurnment will be held at a later date by the family. Please share your memories of Ellen with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.