Patricia Ann Ell

Patricia Ann Ell, beloved wife, mother, and friend, peacefully passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025. 

Patricia “Pat” was born in Jamaica Long Island, New York to Valerie and John Shortall. Pat grew up in Army bases across the world from Japan to New Jersey to Kansas where she attended Immaculata High School and then Benedictine College attaining a degree in social work, later she received a master’s degree in counseling and human development from Troy University. While attending Benedictine College Pat not only caught the eye of Edwin “Ed” Ell but she also caught Ed on Sadie Hawkins Day, the beginning of their lives together, a beautiful 58-year marriage.

The Ell’s moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1971 and Pat’s passion would turn to teaching where she educated and inspired many. She began teaching at St. Mary Catholic School where she taught for 24 years, serving in roles that included Librarian, Play Director, English Teacher, Counselor and Vice Principal before moving to Ruckle Junior High where she continued to teach the art of diagraming sentences and spreading kindness. Following retirement, Pat continued to care for our community by assisting Okaloosa County School District with their homeless programs making sure families going through difficult times had what they needed including the shoes off her feet, she once gave a mother needing dressy shoes for an interview. Throughout Pat’s life she created many wonderful friendships with neighbors, fellow teachers, parents, and students. Pat gave us many wonderful things but her dedication to God and the Catholic faith is what stands out most. Mrs. Ell, Pat, Mom, Nana gave us the gift of faith and the fortitude to stand for our Catholic beliefs which were woven throughout all aspects of our lives, a gift that will be shared and celebrated for generations to come. 

Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Valerie and John Shortall, and brother, Laurance Shortall. She is survived by her husband, Ed Ell; children, David Ell and wife Carolyn, Chrissy (Ell) Ridge and husband Barclay; grandchildren, Ashley Ell, Joshua Ell and wife Paula, Teresa Ell, Emily Ridge, Barclay Ridge Jr., Elizabeth Ann Ridge; great grandchildren, Sera Ell and Riley Ell; and sister, Dolores Noechel.