Dr. Evelyn Ellis Elmer, Elizabethton, died peacfully at Hillview Health Center, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014.
She was the daughter of the late Josephine Hyder Ellis and Cale D. Ellis. Her ancestors included many early settlers from Tennessee as well much earlier ones from several colonies. Her husband, Dr. Glaister Elmer, passed away in 2008 and her sister, Aileen Ellis, died in 1979. Evelyn is survived by cousins, a special friend and a number of old friends from around the world. She was a scholar, writer, investor, collector and animal lover.
She was a graduate of Elizabethton High School and received a Ph. D. from Ohio State University. She also did graduate work in journalism at O.S.U. She first was a reporter for the Elizabethton Star during high school vacations, and was an unusual sports reporter covering professional baseball for the Star. She also worked later for the star occasionally.
Her professional journalism career focused on resort areas including Atlantic City, N.J.; Savannah, Georgia; And Palm Springs, Ca., Where she was the editor of a daily newspaper.
Her career in education included three years as a professor at E.T.S.U. And teaching at Ohio State University, Mississippi State University for Women, and St. Mary’s College/University Of Notre Dame which were merged at the time.
Evelyn was also a consultant for varied work including for Itek, an aerospace company. Two publications were among the few scholarly ones in the 1980’s that discuss issues involved with uncontrolled immigration.
It was her wish to have her body cremated and no services. A special “thank you” to the nurses and staff of hillview health center and pine oaks assisted living for the excellent care she received. In honor of Dr. Elmer donations may be made to the East Tennessee Spay & Neuter, P.O. Box 2171, Elizabethton, Tenn. 37644.
Condolences may be emailed to mfc@chartertn.net.
Memorial funeral chapel is serving the Elmer family.