Ellen Rae Spillett

Ellen Rae Spillett, lovingly known as Rae, passed away on October 11, 2026, surrounded by family after living a fulfilled, vibrant, and exceptionally well-rounded life. Born on November 18, 1937, Rae carried herself through the years with a spirit that was spunky, hardworking, and strong—balanced always by a sharp, effortless wit and a delightful touch of mischief.

Rae married Robert “Bob” Spillett, and together they built not just a home, but a rich, enduring life. She worked on the farm alongside her husband and children, sharing in the daily labor, the lessons, and the deep satisfactions that come from tending the land, caring for animals, and raising a family with steady hands and a determined heart. She also served for many years as a cook at Rockland Schools, nourishing generations of students with the same practical generosity, quick smile, and steady dedication she brought to her own table.

Her humor was as natural as her warmth. If caught on a windy day or after a long morning of work, she’d look in the mirror and declare, "I look like I combed my hair with an eggbeater," and if anyone ever mistook her for overly delicate, she’d quickly set the record straight: "I'm not an acrobat, more like an awkward brat." She was a storyteller through and through, turning ordinary moments into treasures worth retelling, and she could be delightfully ornery in the way only the most deeply cherished people can be.

Rae loved her children, the farm, her animals, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with a fierce, unwavering devotion. Among the accomplishments she held most dear were building a life with Bob, raising their children, and watching her family expand through her grandkids. These were not merely milestones to Rae; they were the holy work and great joy of a lifetime.

She is survived by her daughters: Gina Schneringer, along with her husband Steve and their children Lyndsay, Seth, Jade, and Emily; Donna McCall, along with her husband Corey and their children Craig and Nate; Shelly Bailey, along with her husband Ben and their children Brandi, Shanna, and Monte; and Shon Olson, along with her husband Fred and their children Colton, Megan, Ricky, and Daniel. She is also survived by her son Ron Spillett, along with his wife Lynn and their children Eric and Eli, as well as her granddaughter Brandi Nielson. Her family was her greatest delight, and we are so deeply grateful to have been raised by her, teased by her, fed by her, and gathered around her table.

Rae was reunited in death with her beloved husband, Bob Spillett; her son, Robert “Bob” Spillett Jr.; and her sister, Ramona Shipp Shoulberg. Their memories remained a sacred part of her life, just as hers will forever remain part of ours.

Rae leaves behind a family shaped by her grit, brightened by her spice, and kept warm by her love. She will continue to live on in stories retold, in her funny little sayings echoing through the generations, and in the strong-willed sparkle of those who came after her. Ours is a far better family for having had her at its center, and as she always said to let you know you were loved, "Bye now!"