Miriam Jean Ellis

Miriam Jean Ellis (Dudley), 74, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026. Born in Bessemer, Alabama, on May 10, 1951, Miriam was raised in Columbus, Ohio. From an early age, her mother knew she was destined for great things

Miriam attended Central High School, graduating in 1969. After graduation, she dreamed of becoming an airline stewardess and was accepted into a program. However, after a frightening flight experience, she chose a different path. She later began working at The Ohio State University, first as a Physical Therapist and then as an Executive Assistant. Still, Miriam had a vision of being her own boss. Taking a leap of faith, she left her position and founded her own business, Scent From Above.

Miriam found true joy in her work. She loved the oil business, meeting new people, and helping others feel confident and refreshed. What began at flea markets blossomed into a storefront, and throughout Columbus she became affectionately known as "The Oil Lady."

Miriam was known for her kindness, warmth, and open heart. She was easy to talk to, never judgmental, and always willing to help anyone in need. Whether you knew her for five minutes or fifty years, she made you feel like a lifelong friend.

She cherished time with her friends, especially her beloved group, "The Divas." Wherever they went, laughter and joy followed. She also enjoyed quieter moments with her cousin Sandra, visiting bingo halls and casinos around Columbus, where she could relax, play for hours, and strike up conversations with anyone nearby. Miriam truly never met a stranger.

In her later years, Miriam became an active member of True Love Ministries. She was a familiar and joyful presence at church events, where she was lovingly known as Ms. Myra.

Her greatest devotion was to her son, Eric. She worked tirelessly to provide for him and to show him that anything is possible with determination and faith. While working during the day, she attended school at night and earned her bachelor's degree in communications.

Miriam's heart overflowed with love for her granddaughters. When Ariana and Erica were born, she proudly embraced the name "Nana," a title she wore with joy. She treasured every moment spent with them, from making their favorite "panny cakes", as Ariana called them, in the morning to frequent trips to McDonald's for chicken nugget Happy Meals. Ariana and Erica were her "Lil Divas". When Aramis was born, Miriam fondly declared her "Little Mama", and declared that she would one day become the first female President of the United States. She loved her granddaughters deeply and unconditionally.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Dannye Mae Butcher.

Miriam leaves to cherish her memory her Devoted Husband: John Earl Ellis; her Son: Eric (Qiana) Ellis; her Stepson: Wade Lamont Ellis; her Great-Niece: Marianetta Foster; her beloved Granddaughters: Ariana, Erica, and Aramis Ellis; her Step-Grandson: Khalil Johnson; her Best Friend: Melissa Keck and a host of Extended Family and Dear Friends.

Miriam had a gift for seeing the good in everyone. Her radiant smile, wise words, and boundless love will be dearly missed. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.