Ellita Louise Cox Colledge

Ellita Louise Cox Colledge, 93, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025 at home surrounded by family. First we give thanks to God for allowing us to have Ellita as our Mother and Nana. She was the loving foundation of our family.

Ellita was born in Marshall, Texas and was the eighth child of Alphonso Cox and Ella Gilchrist Williams Cox. She is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Gregory Cox, Durward Cox, Mozelle George, Leslie Hall, Angus Cox, Beverly Champion and Sidney Cox.

Ellita was also preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Wilson Colledge, Jr. (Buster), her daughter, Jennifer Colledge McHaley, her son, Arthur Wilson Colledge, III (Buddy), and her son-in-law, Gary McHaley.

Ellita is survived by her daughter, Colleen Colledge (Nancy Indriso) of Asheville, NC; her granddaughter, Dearborn McHaley (Patrick Sherren) of Greenville, SC; her grandson, Devin McHaley (Heather McHaley) of Asheville, NC; and her granddaughter, April Nixon of Charlotte, NC. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Stephen Carpenter, Emma Stewart and Hayden McHaley.

Because Ellita’s father was an insurance salesman, the family moved frequently but eventually settled in Weaverville, NC. While attending Weaverville High School (now North Buncombe High School) she met and later married her high school sweetheart, Buster Colledge. Ellita was a housewife and mother until Buster passed away in 1973 at the age of 41. In order to support her children Ellita assumed her husband’s position in the family business Biltmore Furniture Company in Asheville, NC. When her father-in-law passed away, Ellita and her son owned and operated the furniture store until it’s closing. She later worked at Rollin’ Pin Bakery until her retirement.

Ellita was a child of God and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. More than anything she enjoyed spending time at her home of 70 years in East Asheville. She loved animals, watching movies, and watching sports, especially NFL football. She also cherished time with family and friends and was known for the best fried chicken and coconut cake ever made.

Ellita will be forever missed by all who knew and loved her; but we rejoice in the knowledge that she is now with Jesus and reunited with the family she so dearly loved.

There will be a private graveside service and celebration of life for family and close friends at a later date.

Donations may be made in Ellita’s honor to MANNA Foodbank, 99 Broadpoints Dr., Mills River, NC 28759, or online at donate.mannafoodbank.org.

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.