Ellen Jeannette Henney, 93, of rural Columbia City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at Parkview Whitley at 10:55 p.m., Monday, June 6, 2022, after being hospitalized since last Wednesday, June 1st.

She was born on August 28, 1928, in Whitley County, Indiana, a daughter of the late Harry and Ethel (Shively) Jagger. Growing up in Whitley County, she graduated from Columbia City High School in 1946.

On October 16, 1949, she married William Matthew Henney.  They have always made their home in Whitley County.

Ellen began her work career at the Columbia City Telephone Company as a telephone operator for three years.  She then worked at International Harvester in administration for four years.  She ultimately found her calling as a homemaker, looking after the farm and their five children.

Ellen's hobbies included gardening, canning and finding treasures at garage sales.  She enjoyed traveling and attending her grandchildren's activities.

She was a lifetime member of the Blue River Covenant Brethren Church.

Surviving is her beloved husband of 72 years, Matthew; children, Bill Henney of Columbia City, Tom (Julie) Henney of Columbia City, Nancy (Kent) Lefever of Angola, Sally (Randy) Hinen of Columbia City, Bev Schrader of Columbia City, 11 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Ardith (Ray) Cormany; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by sisters, Ruby Sherman, Marjorie Mowrey and JoAnn Prater; and brothers Clee Jagger and Guy Jagger.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 12 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home in Columbia City with burial at Blue River Cemetery.  Service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, at the Blue River Covenant Brethren Church, 3040 E. 700 North, Columbia City, (formerly Blue River Church of the Brethren), with visitation one hour prior.

Preferred memorials are to Blue River Covenant Brethren Church Mission Fund or Whitley County 4-H.