Ella Faye Wright Jolin, born on July 21, 1950, in Woodville, Texas, passed away peacefully on Aug. 1, 2026, in Cleveland, Texas, at the age of 76. Her life was one marked by faith, devotion, and enduring love—a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.
From her earliest days she was devoted to her family, compassionately guiding her brothers and sisters and then her own children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren through the lessons and challenges of life.
She leaves behind her husband, Albert Jolin. Ella was the beloved mother of Bobby Wilkerson and his wife Gina, Johnny Wilkerson and his wife Vicky, Sherri Jordan and spouse Shannon, Kyle Brandin and his wife Rhonda, Keith Brandin, and Wayne Brandin. As a matriarch, she fostered a nurturing and welcoming home where her family could always find comfort and encouragement. Her role as “Mom” extended far beyond her immediate household, touching the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She leaves behind Bobby Wilkerson Jr., Bryan Wilkerson, Michael Wilkerson, Johnny Wilkerson Jr., Alexis Lopez, Kristen Brandin, Kyle Brandin Jr., Keith Brandin Jr., Hailey Brandin, Patrick Ryan, Emily Lowe, Jon Carter Wilkerson, Raelynn Wilkerson, Johnny Wilkerson III (Trey), Olivia Wilkerson, Carter Lopez, Harper Lopez, Micah Duralia-Tiblier, as well as her brothers James Wright, Brooks Wright, Brady Wright, and her sister Betty Watson, along with other loving relatives and a host of friends.
Ella’s love for her family was matched by her unwavering faith. Many will remember her for her devoted service to Happy Life Church in Cleveland, Texas, where she gladly cooked for church functions and lovingly kept the church spotless. Her commitment to her faith community was evident to all who attended services or visited—her selflessness and joy were always on display.
Ella’s life was filled with simple joys and comforting rituals. She cherished watching basketball, sharing cups of coffee, and spending intimate moments in conversation with her family. Long phone calls with her sister Betty were especially dear to her heart, as were the hours spent decorating and cleaning her home—a reflection of her deep pride in the spaces she made warm for others.
Those who knew Ella will fondly recall her love for the color red and her appreciation for Southern Gospel music, both of which brought her daily happiness. She was known for her cheerful exclamations of “good Lord,” a phrase that encapsulated both her humorous outlook and steadfast trust in her faith.
Ella was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Wilkerson Sr.; her beloved parents, John Wright and Mary Williams Wright; her cherished daughter, Lana Sue Wilkerson; her brother Johnny Wright; sister Francis Butler; nephews David Ott and Gregory Ott; and niece Latosha Ott. Though saddened by their absence, Ella carried their memories with grace and gratitude.
Family and friends are invited to remember and honor Ella’s life at the visitation on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Neal Funeral Home, 200 S Washington Ave, Cleveland, TX 77327. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM at the same location. Interment will take place at Montague Cemetery on Farm to Market Road 1725, Cleveland, TX.
Ella Faye Wright Jolin’s generous spirit, faithfulness, and loving nature leave a profound and lasting mark. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, church community, and all whose lives she touched. Her memory lives on in their hearts and stories, a testament to a well-lived and blessed life.
All arrangements to be handled under the trusted care of Neal Funeral Home.
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.