Elinor "Ellie" M. Markham

Elinor M. Markham, 94, was called home by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, August 9, 2026.

Ellie exhibited a quiet faith that was evident in the love she had for her family, her loyalty to her friends, and her steadfast commitment to the causes and principles in which she believed. Her faith was reflected in the way she lived and in the way she loved those around her. After moving to Lynchburg, Elinor became active in the GE Wives Club, several bridge clubs, and St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. In 1973, she joined the P.E.O. Sisterhood, beginning an association that would span more than five decades. She remained a devoted member and was recognized for 50 years of service to the organization. Family beach trips with the Coburns & Mincers became annual highlights and created lifetime memories. Ellie had a warm smile and sharp mind. She lived independently until just a few months ago. She loved spending time with her grandsons, and late nights laughing and talking while playing Aggravation, Phase 10 and other games are fond remembrances. Heritage at Wyndhurst became another important part of Ellie’s life. There she developed close friendships, enjoyed playing games, helped with social events, and took particular pleasure in welcoming new residents and their families into the community. Her willingness to become involved and make others feel welcome reflected the quiet care for people that characterized her life.

Ellie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James C. Markham, Jr.

Ellie is survived by her three children, Laura Wells of Wilmington, North Carolina; Judy Sconyers (Jim) of Southport, North Carolina; and Richard Markham (Tina) of Lynchburg, Virginia. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Carlton Wells (Brittany), Mark Wells (Craven), Alan Wells (Jacy), Benjamin Riley (Meghan), and Walker Riley; and by her great-grandchildren, Ellis, Jackson, Archer, Olsen, Hayes, and Elsie.

Elinor leaves behind a family and a wide circle of friends who were blessed by her love, friendship, loyalty, and quiet faith. While those who loved her grieve her absence, they do so with gratitude for 94 years of life and with the assurance that the faith by which she lived has now become sight.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2026, at Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg.

A Celebration of Elinor’s Life will follow at 3:00 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2026, in the chapel of Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, with the Rev. Jonathan Falwell officiating. Interment will be held privately at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, Virginia.