Psalm 23:5–6

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

A beautiful and loving soul—strong, admired, and deeply cherished—has left us. Ms. Ella Jane Bethea Howard filled every room with laughter, joy, peace, and happiness. She was gentle in her words and elegant in her style. From her stylish hats to her beautiful suits and shoes, her presence was truly unforgettable. Those who knew Ms. Bethea will always remember her grace and warmth. God knew exactly what He was doing when He created her.

Ella Jane Bethea was born on August 12, 1938, in Bennettsville, South Carolina, to the late Isabelle Bethea and David Coit. She attended elementary school and later Blenheim High School in her hometown of Bennettsville.

On June 11, 1956, Ella welcomed her first daughter, the late Geneva Bishop, with Arthur (Jake) Reid. Later, she moved to Brooklyn, New York, seeking a better life for herself and her family.

In 1959, Ella met the late Edward Jones, and together they had five children: James, Renee, Ralph, Ricky, and Steven Bethea.

In 1972, the Lord led Ella to Solid Rock Baptist Church, where she was baptized. She remained a faithful and devoted member for more than 50 years under the leadership of the late Reverend Rudolph Jones. Her love and loyalty to Jesus Christ were evident in her service to the church. She was a member of the Senior Choir, served as Treasurer for both the Bible School and Bible Institute, and was later ordained as a Deaconess by Reverend Jones. She was also appointed Mother of the Church under Reverend Uptigrow.

In 1992, she married Willie Howard, who later preceded her in death. On March 1, 2026, the Lord called Ms. Ella Jane Bethea Howard home. She was preceded in death by Aunt Mae, Aunt Louise, and her grandson Divine. She leaves to cherish her memory: her daughter Renee Jones; four sons James, Ralph, Ricky, and Steven Bethea; son-in-law Robert Jones; daughters-in-law Mary Bethea, Abigail Bethea and Joy
four aunts Annie Ruth, Vivian, Julia, and Elizabeth; her grandchildren Tonya, Ramesha, Jequella, Lawrence, Dayvon, Octavia, Ebony, Malik, and Jahmair; and her great-grandchildren Tyree, Takima, Christian, Destiny, Constance, Joey Jr., Olivia, Harmony, Journey, Alex, and Junior, along with a host of nieces, cousins, family members, and friends. Though she has left this earthly life, her love, faith, and beautiful spirit will remain in our hearts forever.