Ella M. Van Winkle, age 70 passed away on June 9, 2026 surrounded by her family.
Ella was the very definition of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. She spent her life caring for others, never seeking recognition for the countless ways she touched the lives of family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Her warm smile, generous heart, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Ella dedicated much of her professional life to serving others at Western Baptist Hospital, where she worked faithfully for 26 years before retirement. Whether preparing meals, organizing gatherings, or bringing comfort through simple acts of kindness, she treated everyone like family. Her work was never just a job—it was another way she expressed her caring nature and commitment to helping others.
Above all else, Ella cherished her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, treasured sister, and loyal friend. For 49 years, she shared a beautiful marriage with her beloved husband, Lane Van Winkle. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, hard work, and family. In retirement, Ella and Lane enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought them joy—working in their garden, spending peaceful days fishing, and making memories together.
Nothing brought Ella greater happiness than being surrounded by those she loved. Her home was always open, her table always full, and her heart always ready to welcome family and friends. She believed the greatest gift was simply being together. Holidays, cookouts, family dinners, and spontaneous visits were among her favorite moments, and she had a special way of making everyone feel loved, valued, and at home.
Ella was especially proud of her granddaughters, Olivia Headrick and Charlotte Headrick. Watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments brought her immeasurable joy. She loved every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories that they will cherish forever.
Those who knew Ella will remember her gentle spirit, infectious smile, and ability to brighten even the most difficult days. She possessed a heart of gold and an extraordinary gift for making others feel cared for. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity, encouragement, and unconditional love.
Ella was preceded in death by her parents, Eldon and Mary Daugherty, and her brothers, Charles Daugherty and Larry Daugherty.
She leaves behind her loving husband of 49 years, Lane Van Winkle; her son, Lane Van Winkle of Paducah, KY; her daughter, Tasha Headrick and son-in-law Rhett Headrick of Paducah, KY; her beloved granddaughters, Olivia Headrick and Charlotte Headrick; her brother, Eldon Daugherty of Tell City, IN; her sister, Patricia (Terry) Sledd of McHenry, MS; her brother, James Michael (Edie) Daugherty of Paducah, KY; and several cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Visitation will be held at Hughes Funeral Home on June 27, 2026, from 1pm-3pm, with Memorial Service beginning at 3pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing that Ella’s legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue through all who were blessed to know her. She taught us the importance of caring for one another, finding joy in life’s simple moments, and always putting family first. Her memory will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
“A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.”
