Ellen Marie (Porter) Winney, 80, Great Falls, was called home on Sunday, March 15, 2020, while surrounded by her loving family.
Ellen was born in Belt, Montana on February 26, 1940, to Theodore and Julia Porter. Ellen was raised in Belt and graduated from Belt Valley High School in 1958. Ellen attended nursing school at the Columbus School of Nursing and was capped in 1959. Ellen married Joseph L. Winney in 1961, and became an Air Force wife and was stationed with him in Okinawa, Louisiana, and Montana. Ellen was mother to four children and opened her home to anyone who needed a place to stay or someone to take care of them.
Ellen spent time as a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout leader and was active with the Conrad Swim Team, where her youngest son, Daniel, was a swimmer on the team.
Ellen had a long career as a CNA in Louisiana. She later worked for Columbus Hospital, Benefis Hospital, and at the Golden Eagle Plaza, all in Great Falls and at the Pondera Medical Center in Conrad, MT. She also spent many years on and off as an Avon representative, a CASA guardian ad litem, as well as a Senior Companion with Cascade Co. Aging Services. Ellen was a member of St. Mark's Parish in Belt and St. Michael Parish in Conrad. She was also a life-long member of the VFW Women's Auxiliary.
Ellen loved time with her children, grandchildren, and her many pets throughout the years. She was very close to her brother, James Porter, and has always had a deep love for the members of her high school graduating class of 1958.
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and many aunts and uncles. She is survived by her brother, James Porter; children, Robert (Darla) Winney, Michael (Rebecca) Winney both of Shelby, MT, Theresa Redding and Daniel (Connie) Winney both of Great Falls. She also leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren to carry her love onward.
To read the complete obituary and share condolences, visit the Schnider Funeral Home website.
