Ellen Jane Shrum

Ellen Jane “Janie” Shrum, age 81, of Fordyce, went to be with her Lord on June 22, 2024. She was born September 28, 1942 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucy Ann Boiter, Joseph Boiter and Herman Bailey, and her brother Kenny Bailey.  She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Kenneth Shrum. Janie was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, foster mother, and a cherished member of her church and community.

She is also survived by her children, Tara (Marcus) Morgan of Shirley, Teresa (Darrell) Crutchfield of Fordyce, and Tait (Andry) Shrum of Hot Springs; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Brittany Dow, Gavin Morgan and son Cohen, and Allyssa Crutchfield.  Additionally, she is survived by her foster child, Nancy Bench; Todd (Lark) Clayton; foster grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Michelle Clayton, Sarah Huffmaster and sons Gunner and Connar, Samantha (Garrett) Davenport and daughters Kinsley and Adaleigh, and Michael Clayton.

As a child her family lived all over the United States, she lived as far north as Minneapolis, Minnesota and as far south as Brownsville, Texas.  She was a student at Central High School during the turbulent desegregation events, which prevented her from graduating high school.  Later in life she studied and completed her GED requirements.

Janie achieved many milestones and contributed greatly to her church and community. She was heavily involved in children's church at Zion Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years, guiding and nurturing young souls. An artist at heart, Janie was skilled in floral design and an avid gardener. She successfully owned and operated several businesses with her husband, including a grocery store, a ceramics shop, a floral business, and a greenhouse.  Her dedication to service and her community left an indelible mark on those who knew her.

Janie was known for her deep compassion and selflessness. She was always willing to lend a helping hand regardless of the personal sacrifices. Her cooking and baking brought joy to many, and her passion for helping others was evident in all that she did.

Her personality was characterized by warmth, tenderness, and her infectious smile. She was soft-spoken, empathetic, and always joyful.  A prayer warrior and a devoted Christian, Janie was a beacon of boundless love. She was a mother or grandmother to everyone she met, always ready with a comforting hug and encouraging words.  Known to everyone as "Grammie," she believed that love was the key to life and lived each day sharing that love with others.


Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Zion Baptist Church in Fordyce. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Scott Smith and Bro. Nick Flowers officiating. Interment will follow in Ebenezer Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to Zion Baptist Church Youth Fund, Morning Meadow Animal Rescue or Hope Place in Fordyce.

Arrangements by Buie Funeral Home of Rison (870) 325-6216.