Deaconess Ethel Ross Sellers

A Faithful Servant of God, Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, Colleague, Friend Lifelong Educator, Businesswoman, Church Builder, Deaconess and Church Administrator.

Ethel Lacine Ross Sellers made her grand and heaven-ordained entrance into the world in Glennville, Georgia, born to Mrs. Winner Teasdell Ross and Mr. Theodore Ross. She was the fifth child of twelve, a position that would soon reveal her strength, grace, and divine calling as a matriarch in the making.

Even as a child, there was something intriguing about her spirit—quietly strong, deeply rooted, and filled with a compassionate love of God that would guide her all the days of her life.

Ethel’s educational journey began in a humble one-room schoolhouse in Tattnall County. Her brilliance soon became evident as she graduated Valedictorian of Tattnall County Industrial High School, Class of 1959. She continued her studies at Savannah State College, earning a bachelor’s degree in science education in 1964. Her pursuit of knowledge continued as she later obtained a master’s degree in special education and pursued postgraduate studies at Georgia Southern University. Her life reflected not only intelligence, but divine purpose.

During her college years, while residing with her Godmother, the late Bishop Edna Kent Owens, she met Thomas Jefferson Sellers. In 1964, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, when the world was divided, she chose love. She united in marriage with Thomas, and together they built a life rooted in devout Pentecostal Christian faith, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Their home was filled with joy and hospitality. They enjoyed traveling, especially to New York, hosting families, and preparing delicious meals that became staples of love and fellowship. From salmon croquettes and creamy grits to blue crabs and boiled shrimp, her kitchen was a place of comfort and connection. Together, they raised their beloved son, Dr. Antonio Jefferson Sellers, whom they loved deeply and were immensely proud of.

Deaconess Sellers was a beacon of strength within her family. After the passing of her beloved mother, she stepped fully into her role as matriarch—opening her home, sharing her resources, offering guidance, and providing spiritual covering to her siblings and extended family. Her life was marked by generosity, wisdom, and a continual outpouring of kindness.

Her faith journey was the cornerstone of her life. She faithfully attended First African Baptist Church in Glennville, Georgia, and later united with First Christ Holiness Church under the leadership of Bishop Edna Kent Owens and Bishop Albert Owens. She served diligently as Sunday School Superintendent, Deaconess, Senior Choir member, and special attendant to Bishop Owens. She was instrumental in the naming of Athens First Christ Holiness Church in Lanier, Georgia.

At Little Rock Holiness Church, founded by her mother, she continued her service with excellence. She served as Church Administrator, Financial Officer, Adult Sunday School Teacher, and a leader in multiple ministries. As Lead Project Manager, she played a vital role in the construction of two church buildings, leaving a legacy in the house of God. She was also a tremendous support to her son, Dr. Antonio Sellers, who served as her pastor.

A lifelong educator, Deaconess Sellers dedicated over 34 years to public education, serving in numerous school systems including Clark County, Tattnall County, Bryan County, and Chatham County. She later returned to education for an additional 20 years as a Special Education teacher in Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools. She was a mentor, advocate, and champion for students and families, often going beyond the classroom through home visits and personal encouragement.

Beyond education, she was a visionary businesswoman and property owner. In the early 1980s, she purchased and transformed part of the old Richmond Hill Primary School into thriving real estate. She was also known for her hands-on approach, often engaging in construction projects alongside her husband.

Deaconess Sellers was truly in the “people business.” She fed the hungry, supported those in need, and poured love into her community. Through her former store, Joey’s Stand and Snack, she provided meals and care to many. Her generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve made her a pillar in both her community and church.

She was a gentle soul with a kind heart, sharp mind, and unwavering dedication. She served as a caregiver to many, including her sister Ruby Ross, Bishop Edna Kent Owens, and her aunt Maggie McMillan.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Deacon Thomas Jefferson Sellers; her parents, Winner Teasdell Ross and Theodore Ross; her brothers Sylvester Ross and Roy Chester Ross; and her sisters Ruby Ross, Earnestine Hampton and Linda Ross.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving and devoted son, Dr. Antonio Sellers (Tiershondria LaToya Sellers) of Richmond Hill, Georgia; grandchildren Techiya Sellers and Katrina Banks Jones; great-grandchild Aaliyah Myers; siblings Laura Ross, Melissa Ross Goode (Eduardo), Lillian Ross, Angel Ross Moody (Larry), Nancy Ross Stewart (Bobby), and Joe Ross; her loving Aunt Bernice Teasdell; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, church family, former students, and colleagues.

Deaconess Sellers was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was a caregiver, a guide, a covering, and a true matriarch. She was filled with heartfelt compassion, strength, and unwavering faith. Her life was a testimony of resilience, humility, and grace.

As we bid farewell, we celebrate a life well lived. Her legacy will continue through the countless lives she touched.

“Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.”

Not Goodbye… But See You Later

In honor of the life and legacy of Deaconess Sellers and in accordance with her wishes, the family request that in lieu of flowers, expressions of love be made through donations to Little Rock Holiness Church Special Building Projects. All monetary checks and cash can be mailed to 272 Highland Circle, Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324 or via cashapp, $tonyjsellers or Zelle 912-663-1974.