Ellen Lea Wilkins (January 19, 1929 – September 9, 2016)

Ellen Lea Wilkins, 87, of Zanesville, died at 5:18 P.M. on Friday, September 9, 2016 at Genesis Hospice-Morrison House, Zanesville surrounded by her loving family. She was born January 19, 1929 in Barberton, Ohio, daughter of the late Harry and Ada Fox Thompson. She graduated from Salem High School Class of 1947.  Ellen married Gale D. Wilkins on July 2, 1947 and lived all her married life in Zanesville. She retired as a Ward Secretary at Bethesda Hospital where she worked for 20 years.

Ellen is survived by a daughter, Terrie Laudenbacher, of Zanesville; a son, Tim (Sherry) Wilkins, of Zanesville; a granddaughter, Kaci (Justin) Tyo, of Zanesville; a sister-in-law, Barbara Thompson of Saugus, CA; and a nephew, Derry (Connie) Null, of Zanesville. She treasured her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gale Wilkins, whom she married July 2, 1947, a brother, Bill H. Thompson; a son-in-law Jack Laudenbacher; and a sister-in-law, Maebelle Null.

Friends and family may call from 4:00 – 8:00 P.M. on Monday, September 12, 2016 at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE where funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, September 13, 2016, with Pastor Chris Riggs officiating.  She will be laid to rest at Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery, Zanesville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Shelter Society, 1430 Newark Road, Zanesville, Ohio.

To send a note of condolence, or to order flowers or comfort food: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com , follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551.

Dignified and professional services entrusted to BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME.