Ella Marie Holts

Ella’s Story Ella Marie Bransford, later Holts (affectionately known as Marie) was born in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky on November 11, 1926, to the union of Quintella Martin and Elzie Bransford. She was the second of three children, Edward the eldest, and Florine the youngest, both of whom preceded her in death. Marie’s family moved to Glasgow, Kentucky, after five generations at Mammoth Cave, when she was seven years old. She attended Caldwell Elementary and graduated from Glasgow Normal High School. Marie joined Hopewell Baptist Church at an early age where she expressed her love of music by singing in the choir. She also faithfully served as a delegate to the Baptist Convention for many years. In 1947, Marie followed her brother Ed, and Uncle Frank Martin to Chicago IL, as part of the Great Migration. There Marie joined Central Park Baptist Church. Entering the workforce, Marie was hired by Michael Reese Blood Bank in 1948, and worked there until November 1974. In March 1975, she began her second career working for the State Board of Elections and remained there until her retirement in February 1999. Marie married Larnell Holts in 1952. To that union a daughter was born, Chandra L. Holts, whom she adored throughout her life. Marie lived her life to the fullest and will be remembered as a fun-loving person who loved to travel. Marie and Chandra took many trips exploring new cities and sharing far away adventures together. Her favorite vacation was always their annual trip to Las Vegas. Always up for a fun time, Marie enjoyed outings with friends, including trips to various casinos. She never came home empty handed. Marie was devoted to her daughter Chandra, her family, and close friends. Always the life of the party, her charismatic personality brought joy and laughter to everyone. Marie leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Chandra L. Holts (my baby); three nephews, Don Bransford, Randolph T. Savage and Danny Overstreet; her niece by marriage, Denise Bransford; great-nieces Qiana Savage (Shawn) and Donna Bransford (David); their children Milan and Kiawn; and Matthew; and a host of great-great nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her family, Marie had a host of friends who became “family” to her. She held a special bond with many people and was often referred to as “Mama Holts”. Marie wanted everyone to know how much you, her special friends and adopted family, meant to her.

Ella Marie Holts

November 11, 1926 - October 31, 2025