Ella J. (Clarke) Brubaker

Ella J. (Clarke) Brubaker, a resident of Ickesburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2024, at the esteemed age of 91. Following a brief hospitalization, surrounded by her loving family, she transitioned from her earthly life to her heavenly home.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 17th, at 1:00PM at the Buffalo Cemetery in Ickesburg. Details regarding a Memorial Service honoring her life will be announced at a later date.

Ella was born on June 28, 1932, in Philadelphia to the late John Clarke and Emma Robbins Clarke Falcone. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, James Milford and is survived by five children, daughters Mary (Ash Dotson) NV, Rhoda (Sylvia) CA and sons John (Kathy) Thailand, Jay (Melinda) PA, and Ken (Carol) TX; 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren (with one on the way) and numerous nieces and nephews. Ella was preceded in death by her siblings Beatrice Clarke, Betty Hankle, Robert Clarke, Thelma Johnson, and Thomas Falcone.

Ella was born in South Philly and graduated from John Bartram HS. While attending a Brethren in Christ mission church in North Philadelphia, Ella met and later married J. Milford Brubaker in 1955. Two years later she left the city for northern Michigan where she and her husband began in ministry at Rust Church west of Alpena. Their unwavering commitment to serving their community spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Upon retirement, they settled near Ickesburg, where they continued to be active members of Saville BiC.

From the age of 14, Ella found solace and purpose in her Christian faith, expressing her devotion through song and unwavering compassion. Throughout her life, she played a pivotal role in supporting her husband’s ministry, taking on every imaginable role with grace and dedication. Notably, she was a renowned hostess welcoming numerous guests and church leaders into her home with open arms and delicious meals.

Over the years, Ella held positions at Byberry State Hospital, a bookbinding company, Kinney Shoe, and Messiah Village, where she provided compassion as a beloved caregiver. Her resilience and work ethic shone through, allowing her to contribute and support her family even during challenging times.

Following her husband’s passing, Ella embraced life with renewed resilience and kindness. Her warm smile and unwavering ability to remember the names of those around her, even during her final days at the hospital, displayed her genuine grace and concern for others. She truly embodied the spirit of Christ in her interactions with everyone she encountered.

Ella exemplified Christ in her life to the very end. Her final words of advice for her children were “Love the Lord and Live God’s Word.” Advice we could all take to heart just as she had done.

Arrangements by Stone Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc.; Woodbury.

(www.stonefuneralhomewoodbury.com)