Ella Mae Rich, a lifelong resident of Rich Hill, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026 at the age of 98. She devoted her life to her family, her community, and serving others with kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. On January 27, 1951, Ella Mae married the love of her life, Marvin Rich. Together they built a loving home and raised three children: Warren Rich of Rich Hill, Missouri; Vickie Sue Rich of Rich Hill, Missouri; and Greg Rich who preceded her in death. Ella Mae was a proud grandmother to Scottie Rich, Jason (Brenna) and Merida Rich, Jeremy (Katrina) Rich, Tony (Elizabeth) Rich, Keith (Tracy) and Ayden Rich, Becky (Justin) Moreland and Melissa Eaton. Great Grand Children Justin, Riley, Jozelynn, Cheyanne, Jacey, Brooke, Jordan, and Cody. Loved by her Sister Dorothy Mitchell and Daughter-In-Law Nancy Rich.
For many years, Ella Mae dedicated herself to being a homemaker. In 1968, she began a new chapter by joining the Rich Hill School District as a cook at the elementary school. Her talent for preparing delicious home-cooked meals and her strong work ethic earned her a promotion to Head Cook, a position she proudly held for 31 years. She touched the lives of generations of students with both her cooking and caring. Ella Mae’s greatest joy was caring for others. She devoted her life to her family and was always willing to lend a helping hand, providing in-home care to many neighbors during times of need. Her compassion and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
She found great happiness in decorating for the holidays, especially the Fourth of July and Christmas. Her beautiful Christmas displays became well known throughout Rich Hill, earning her several city awards and bringing joy to her community. An avid gardener, Ella Mae filled her yard with colorful flowers, particularly her beloved red geraniums and vibrant tulips. Her passion for gardening led her to become an active member of the Rich Hill Garden Club. Ella Mae was also an exceptionally talented quilter. Every new baby in the family received a handmade quilt lovingly crafted by her hands, and many couples treasured the beautiful quilts she created as wedding gifts. Each stitch reflected her love, generosity, and remarkable talent.
She took immense pride in her hometown. Following the Rich Hill Tigers’ 2000 State Championship, Ella Mae created a beautiful quilt that was auctioned to help fund a monument at the Rich Hill Tigers football stadium, leaving a lasting tribute to her community. Ella Mae lived a life defined by love, faith, hard work, and service. She will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, delicious meals, beautiful gardens, treasured quilts, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 98 years.
Funeral Services
Tuesday July 7, 2026
Heuser Funeral Home
Rich Hill, Missouri
Service at 2:00 p.m.
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