Ellen Sue Lawrence

Ellen Sue Lawrence, 81, of Logan, Ohio passed away February 28th, 2025 in Lancaster, Ohio. She was born December 24, 1943, to Robert and Edith Lawrence in Circleville, Ohio. 

She attended Chillicothe High School and graduated in 1962. Following high school, she furthered her education by obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Education at Ohio University, graduating in 1966. Ellen worked for Chillicothe schools from 1966-1969 where she taught Physical Education at Mt. Logan Jr. High and in addition, coached tennis, cheerleading, and developed the first girls track team at Chillicothe High School. After three years of teaching and coaching she relocated to Bowling Green, Ohio to obtain a Master's Degree in Education at Bowling Green State University where she graduated in 1970. After graduation she moved to Shelby, Ohio teaching Physical Education and coaching for 27 years. Ellen coached a variety of sports including track, volleyball, softball, tennis, and of those 23 years, basketball, leading the girl's team to winning the state championship in 1983 and second place in 1992. 

Ellen's interests included music, golf, tennis, movies, and motorcycling. Her strongest passion was being a dedicated coach, an inspiring leader, and a devoted mentor to countless young women. She not only shaped skilled athletes but also instilled confidence, resilience, and love for the game. Ellen's impact extended far beyond just the game, leaving a lasting legacy in the lives of those she coached and the community she served. She was involved in many organizations including the National Education Association, Ohio Education Association, and the Ohio University Alumni Association. She was an avid member of the Hocking County Democratic Party and Chelle's Angels women's riding club. 

Ellen will be inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame Saturday April 12, 2025 at Hilton Polaris, Columbus, Ohio. She was able to receive her award prior to her passing.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Edith, her sister Faith Fraser (Bob) of Circleville, and her brother Fred Lawrence (Jerri) of Westerville. 

Ellen is survived by her sister Anne Kern (Richard) of Bowling Green, Ohio, niece Emily Doster, Bowling Green, Ohio, nephew Erik Kern, Tontogany, Ohio, and many other loving relatives and friends. 

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers and staff at Fairhope Hospice and Pickering House in Lancaster. Your kindness, dedication, and support during Ellen's final days brought comfort not only to her, but to all of us who loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29th, 2025 from 1-4pm at Shelby High School in The Commons. Friends and family will have the chance to gather and share memories of Ellen while enjoying popcorn, food, and drinks. 

Memorial contributions can be made to: Shelby Whippet Athletic Boosters, memo: Girls Basketball in memory of Ellen Lawrence, mailed to: Shelby Athletic Boosters in c/o Cathy Dodge, 145 Mansfield Ave., Apt. 7, Shelby, Ohio 44875

Please sign her online guestbook at www.cardaras.com