Ella-Marie Bethel, 73, of Cedar Creek, TX, passed away at her home on Thursday, June 23, 2022. Marie was born and raised in East Wareham, Massachusetts before moving to Texas to realize her dream of owning a ranch.

Love of people and animals was the driving force of Marie’s life. She married the love of her life, Ron Bethel, 27 years ago and began a remarkable partnership full of love and adventure. She was a horse-whisperer, animal rescuer, artist, musician, trail rider, barrel-racing, independent soul. She had a zest for life that was unmatched.

She worked hard to make a living as a single mother, building elevators for Dover and Westinghouse in the 1980’s and 90’s. Marie was one of the first licensed female elevator mechanics in the US. She then had a career in nursing. She was recognized as an employee of the month several times during her tenure as an LVN working at care facilities in Texas.

She received her nursing license from Upper Cape Cod Regional College and her elevator mechanic’s license through the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Marie created a life she adored, surrounded by family, friends, horses, dogs, cats and an abundance of other animals. She introduced many to the freedom and joy of horsemanship.

Marie was fierce in her loyalty to friends and family and especially enjoyed her time with her grandchildren, Amanda Williamson (husband, Eli), Chelsea Martin (husband, Fred), Jolie and Tanner “Bleu” Watson and Jackson Bethel and great grandchildren, Thomas Cade Williamson and Ensley Grace Martin. She especially liked cheering her grandchildren while they competed in rodeo competitions. 

Marie is survived by her husband, Ron Bethel, sister-in-law, Donna Mahr (husband Kenny); daughters Kristen Ames and Holli Watson (husband, Clint) and step-son, Clayton Bethel (fiancée, Jordan Panther); mother, Laura Ames, siblings, Beverly Ames, Barbara Garant (husband, Richard), Bradford Ames (wife, Ellen) as well as cousins, beloved nieces, nephews and a plethora of treasured friends. 

Preceded in death by her father, Elmer Ames and brother Clifton Ames.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this year.