Ellie Wilson Golden

If you ever had the privilege of being welcomed into Ellie Wilson Golden’s kitchen, then you already knew one thing for certain: she loved deeply and generously. Love was served through every warm meal, every homemade dessert, every conversation filled with laughter, and every moment spent gathered around her table. Her home was a place of comfort, joy, and belonging.

After an extended illness, Ellie “Bell” Wilson Golden peacefully entered her eternal home on Friday, May 15, 2026. While her family and friends will miss her dearly, they find comfort in knowing she is now at peace and free from pain.

Ellie was born on April 26, 1944, in Wilkinson County, Georgia, to the late Mr. Andrew “Bud” Wilson and Mrs. Clara Mills Wilson. From an early age, Ellie possessed a determined spirit and a heart devoted to helping others. Inspired by her compassion and intelligence, she dreamed of becoming either a nurse or a lawyer. Her dedication to excellence led her to graduate as valedictorian of Millville High School in Dublin, Georgia.

Following graduation, Ellie relocated to New York, where she completed her undergraduate studies at Fordham University. She began her professional career with AT&T, formerly Southern Bell, before eventually returning home to Georgia. There, she worked nights for the telephone company while teaching during the day at her former high school, a reflection of her tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to family and community.

As a devoted mother, Ellie made the selfless decision to leave her home in Dublin, Georgia, to ensure her son could receive necessary medical treatment following a tragic accident. Family was always her priority, and every sacrifice she made was rooted in love. She later continued her career with BellSouth until her retirement.

Ellie’s greatest joy came from spending time with family and entertaining friends. She had a gift for making people feel cared for and welcomed. She also enjoyed cooking, sewing, gardening, and creating warm memories with those she loved. As her health declined and mobility became more limited, she found comfort in reading, especially the Bible, and completing word puzzles. She was also a devoted fan of the New York Mets and her beloved Jacksonville Jaguars.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Ellie worshipped faithfully at Bethel Institutional Baptist Church until her health no longer allowed her to attend regularly. Her faith carried her through life’s joys and hardships alike and remained a steady source of strength.

Ellie was preceded in death by her husbands, Will Washington and Henry Golden; her beloved son, Derek Washington; her grandson, Gerard Washington; and her siblings, Helen Louise White, Christine Jones, Robert Wilson, and Anita Ashley.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories, her loving son, Reginald “Reggie” Washington; grandchildren, Xavier Washington, Quinn Washington, Jerad Washington, Jaden Washington, and Jantzen Washington; daughters-in-law, Tonya Washington and Erin Boyle; goddaughter, Sharrone Williams; siblings, Douglas Wilson, Vivian Denson, Gwendolyn Stanley, Gerileane Carter, and Evangelist Claretha Bell; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and many sorrowing friends whose lives were touched by her kindness, wisdom, and love.

Ellie’s life was a beautiful example of strength, faith, sacrifice, and unconditional love. Though her earthly journey has ended, the warmth she gave so freely will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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