JUNE 15, 1943 – MARCH 29, 2023
Obituary
Elaine Burgess Ashcroft, age 79, of Nacogdoches, Texas passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. She was born June 15, 1943, in Nacogdoches to parents William Henry Harrison and Imogene (Barnes) Harrison.
Elaine graduated from Lufkin High School and attended Stephen F. Austin State University. She worked as a preschool teacher for 32 years, ending her career at First Baptist Day School in Nacogdoches. She was a past owner of Shipley Donuts, owning two in Nacogdoches and one in Lufkin. She enjoyed reading, Bible study, and spending time with her family and her many friends.
Mrs. Ashcroft served on the boards of the Nacogdoches Treatment Center, Samaritan Center, and the Old University Building. She served one term as President of Friends of Music and was inducted into their Circle of Honor. She was also involved with the Kononia Study Club, Junior Forum, Heritage Heralds, and Dean’s Circle, serving on the advisory board.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Carroll Louis Burgess; and her second husband, B.F. Ashcroft.
She is survived by her daughters, Christi Carroll Burgess Rickel and husband Cory and Melinda Lee Burgess Nelson and husband Jack; grandchildren, Chance Dale Rickel, Courtney Carroll Rickel, Alexander Michael Nelson and wife Rain and their daughter Echo Marie, Erich Brian Nelson and wife Daisy, Christopher Xavier Nelson, Caedon Anthony Nelson, Caroline Alexis Nelson, and Catherine Savannah Nelson; brothers, William Eugene Harrison and wife Rebecca and James Hiram Harrison and wife Cheryl; sister, Patti Harrison Brooks; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Nacogdoches officiated by Rev. Kallie Pitcock. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
Elaine will be laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery in Nacogdoches.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Music Fund at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.