Ethel was born on September 15, 1947, in Flat Creek, Alabama to Evelyn and Clarence Borders. Raised in a loving home, she was the third of seven children and shared a special, unbreakable bond with her mother, Evelyn. The two spent countless cherished hours singing and shopping together, and later in life, Ethel served as her mother’s devoted caregiver.

From an early age, Ethel’s vibrant energy and determination shined through. She was an active child, especially known for her speed on the track, where she won numerous sprint races. After graduating from John Hay High School in 1965, she pursued studies in Business and went on to serve her country as a Military Processor/Computer Specialist for the U.S. Government with the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), from which she retired after a career of 38 years.

Ethel found lasting joy and pride in raising her two sons as a single parent, Andre and Mitchell, with whom she maintained close and loving relationships throughout her life. Later, she lived with Mitchell before moving to Solon Pointe, where she continued to touch lives with her gentle spirit.

Ethel was widely known for her natural caregiving abilities, unmatched humility, and quiet strength. She was the kind of person who was always there when others needed her, never seeking the spotlight, but always ready with a kind word, a helping hand, or a home-cooked meal. Her turkey legs were legendary among her sons, and her sweet tooth—especially for Kit Kats—was matched only by her sweet demeanor.

A faithful Baptist, Ethel was an active member with Olivet Institutional Baptist Church. She found joy in reading the bible and gospel music. Ethel could also often be heard singing and dancing to the soulful sounds of Motown, sometimes all by herself. Though she preferred solitude, she bowled in a league with family and friends and babysitting the children of loved ones. She opened her home to many, offering comfort, support, and her famous reminder to “pray all the time.”

Ethel’s life was a reflection of quiet grace, unwavering faith, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the lives she touched, and the countless ways she gave without ever asking for anything in return.

Ethel, 77 went home to be with the Lord on Monday, July 7, 2025. She was preceded in death by her mother, Evelyn Borders, her siblings, Annie L. Booker, Clarence Borders Jr., Jacqueline Borders, Aylwin C. Borders Sr., Claricer Borders, and her nephew Terrence Booker.

She is survived by her beloved sons, Andre (Crystal) and Mitchell (Shauna), grandchildren, Kellen, Sean, Peyton and Dion, her sister, Vanessa Cunningham and a host of family and friends who will miss her deeply but cherish her memory always.

In honoring Ethel’s beautiful life, we remember her as a caregiver, a loving mother, and a woman of great humility whose heart was always open to others.