Ella Bird

Ella M. Bird, 94, of Cape Girardeau died Monday, April 23, 2012, at Monticello House in Jackson.

She was born Aug. 10, 1917, in Keaton, Tenn., to Walter and Florence Johns. She married Everett Bird, who preceded her in death.

Bird was a member of Greater Dimension Ministry in Cape Girardeau, where she served as church mother more than 47 years. She was also president of the Prayer and Bible Band, and an active missionary until her later years.

She is survived by four sons, Evitt Bird of Houston, Dr. William Bird Sr., Earnest Bird and Benjamin Bird of Cape Girardeau; three daughters, Luella Ayers of Jackson, Shirley Nelson of Cape Girardeau, Rose Holley of Alexandria, Va.; 28 grandchildren; 58 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by a son, Marblin Bird.

Friends may call from 11 a.m. until service time Friday at Greater Dimension Ministry, 723 Hackberry St. Calvin Bird, pastor, will officiate. Interment will be in Fairmount Cemetery.

Williams Funeral Home of Charleston, Mo., is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent at www.thewilliamsfuneralhomes.com.