Ellie Lee Woolbright

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Ellie Lee Woolbright, a cherished member of the Cookeville community, passed away peacefully at her home in Cookeville, Tennessee, on April 22, 2026. Born on October 24, 1923, in Overton County, Tennessee, Ellie’s life was marked by dedication to family, community, and a lifelong commitment to the values she held dear.

Ellie attended Rickman School, where her roots in the community were firmly established. She devoted many years to working in the cafeteria at Rickman School, earning the affectionate nickname “Ma Woolbright” from generations of children who fondly remembered her nurturing presence. Beyond her professional life, she was a homemaker for many years, thoughtfully tending to her household and those she loved.

A woman of faith, Ellie attended Netherland Church of Christ in Rickman, where she found spiritual sustenance and fellowship. Her personality reflected the warmth and kindness nurtured in that community. She had a deep passion for quilting, gardening, mowing the yard, and most especially for children, all of which brought joy to her everyday life.

Ellie’s family was the cornerstone of her existence. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Lisa Woolbright Swallows, and her husband David; grandchildren Tony and Tina Woolbright, Tonia and Billy Sells, Bryant and Stephanie Swallows, and Letha and Tyler Gaw; along with 28 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love and devotion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Adaline Smith; her husband of 44 years, Anthon Woolbright; her son, Anthony Gerald Woolbright; her daughter-in-law, Glenda Miller Woolbright; her brothers, Clay and Howard Smith; her sisters, Filena Tayes and Eliza Hawkins; and several nieces and nephews, whose memories she held closely.

Funeral services for Mrs. Woolbright will be held Monday April 27, 2026 at 1:00 pm in the Cookeville Chapel with her grandson, Tyler Gaw officiating.

Interment will follow in the Netherland Cemetery with Kris Bybee, Will Tenpenny, Jay Smith, Anthony Woolbright, Dakota Woolbright, Matthew Sells, Peyton Hogue and Adam Dodson serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Sunday 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Cookeville Chapel and Monday from 10:00 AM until service time.

Ellie Lee Woolbright’s enduring spirit, generous heart, and steadfast devotion to her family and community will be remembered with great respect and affection. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.