Louise Marie McElhaney, 87, of Dayton, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026.
Louise was born on May 13, 1938, in Franklin, Penn., to Frank Berton Patterson and Minnie Grace Sanford. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose life was centered around her family.
A member of Community Christian Church, Louise lived her life with love, strength, and devotion. She was known as the protector and guardian of her loved ones and cherished her family above all else. She also adored her many beloved fur babies—too many to name—and had a special fondness for carousels, collecting them throughout the years.
Louise worked as an EKG technician and dedicated many years of service to Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital before retiring in 1996. She was also proud to have worked alongside Dr. James H. “Red” Duke Jr. at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. She was a proud resident of Dayton for over 45 years.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, James McElhaney Sr.; her parents; all of her siblings; and her son, John McElhaney.
She is survived by her sons, James McElhaney Jr. and wife Michelle, and Donald McElhaney Sr. and wife Paula; her daughter, Karen McElhaney; her grandchildren, Justin and wife Sara, Michael, Kortni, Randy and wife Jeannie, Johnny, Mickey, DJ, and William; as well as numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
A visitation will be held on March 7, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home – Dayton. A funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Steve Spence officiating. A burial will follow at Hardin Chapel Cemetery, Hardin
Pallbearers will be Justin McElhaney, Michael McElhaney, Randy Crance, Johnny McElhaney, Austin Whisman, J. Alex Kirk, Mickey McElhaney, and Ben Salas.
Honorary Pallbearers: Douglas Johnson and Bruce Coffin.
Lou’s love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family will forever be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.