Ellen Greene

Ellen Ruth Noel Greene, 75, of San Ramon, Calif., died unexpectedly of a heart attack Monday, Feb. 6, 2012.

She was born March 1, 1936, in Jackson. Ellen was raised on the family farm near Gravel Hill, Mo., the second oldest of six children of Arthur and Frances Noel.

Ellen graduated valedictorian of her Lutesville, Mo., High School class in 1954. She earned a bachelor of science degree from Southeast Missouri State University. She taught commercial subjects at Fisk-Rombauer High School in Fisk, Mo.

She met her future husband on a blind date in 1959. She married 2nd Lt. Rockwell Nathan Greene May 15, 1960.

Ellen wrote "My 2 Year Honeymoon in Turkey" (ISBN #1-884680-02-X -- or available from Nathan) about their adventurous experiences. She enjoyed traveling. She will be missed by all.

Survived by her husband of almost 52 years; a son and daughter-in-law, Rockwell Noel and Rosalee Greene; grandchildren, Allie, Katie, Michael, and Frannie; and three siblings.

Burial was Feb. 16 in San Joaquin National Cemetery in Santa Nella, Calif.

Expressions of condolence and donations in Ellen's memory can be sent c/o Grace United Methodist Church, 19901 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon, CA 94583. www.sanramongrace.org or Gravel Hill Methodist Church.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Gravel Hill Methodist Church, County Road 370, Marble Hill, Mo. A luncheon will be held at niece Becky Terry's home, a half-mile west of the church at 550 County Road 370, Marble Hill. Please RSVP to Becky (573-204-1494).