Ella Maria Redding

Ella Redding, 88, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2016. She was born in New York City on March 9, 1928, the daughter of James J and Bridget Cecilia McGarraghy of Brooklyn, NY. Ella graduated from St. John's University with a bachelor's degree in Business and Hofstra University with a Masters degree in Education. She worked in the New York City garment industry as a Better Dress and Bridal buyer for many years and later, while raising children, re-entered the workforce as an elementary school teacher. Ella married Edward Redding in February 1952 and together they raised five children; Judi, Ed, Ken, Suzann and Jennifer. They lived in several different locations including New York, England, Belgium, and New Jersey. In 1985, Ella became a part time resident of Sarasota, Florida where she became a parishioner at the Church of the Incarnation and a member of the Women's Club. Ella will be remembered for her strong Catholic faith. She set a remarkable example for all those who knew her. Ella, also known affectionately as "The Queen", loved having a big family and gathering them together. She always felt blessed and happiest in a room filled with her children and grandchildren. Mrs Redding is survived by 5 children: Judiann R Smith (Jeffrey) of New Rochelle, NY; Edward P Redding Jr. (Terrie nee Trepte) of Sarasota, FL; Kenneth J Redding (Wendy nee Boyland) of Bellevue, WA; Suzann Redding (Tom Hodapp) of Sausalito, CA; and Jennifer Gates (Alan) of Chatham, NJ. Ella is also survived by her treasured 11 grandchildren; Jeffrey, Elizabeth & Cathleen Smith; Ana & John atrick Redding; Blake and Michael Redding; Katherine Hodapp; Christopher, Maggie and Ellie Gates. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7:00 pm Monday evening June 6, 2016 at Toale Brothers Funeral Home – 40 North Orange Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 am Tuesday morning, June 7, 2016 at Church Of The Incarnation – 2929 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34239. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ella's name may be made to Incarnation Catholic School of Sarasota. To make a donation by check, please send to 2911 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239. To make a donation with a credit card, please call 941.924.8588.

Tributes

Ella Maria Redding

June 3, 2016