Lenna Elder, 85, of Owensboro, passed away on October 23, 2025. She was born on July 6, 1940, to the late Leonard and Edna (Bus) Ranson. Lenna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Murray State University. She worked as a Registered Nurse with the Daviess County Health Department and found great joy in teaching as a Clinical Instructor at Owensboro-Daviess County Hospital.
Lenna was a devoted member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, The Community of Our Lady of All Peoples, The Church of John, the Family of Sons and Daughters of Mary, the Oblate Patriots, and the Paulians. Lenna devoted her life to serving others — visiting the sick, generously donating to those in need, and constantly giving of herself. She worked tirelessly for the Blessed Mother and dedicated her time to countless works of charity. Lenna’s love for her family was unwavering and unconditional.
In addition to her parents, Lenna is preceded in death by her siblings, Paul Ranson, Nicholas Ranson, David Ranson, and Mary Sue Bruner.
Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 61 years, James Elder; her children, Christianne Elder of Owensboro, KY, Jeannie Elder of Lexington, KY, and Gregory Elder of Manassas, VA; her grandchildren, Therese Elder, Luke Stokes, Mary Katherine Elder, Ava Ruth Elder, Abigail Elder, and Peter Elder; her brother, Daniel Ranson, and several cherished nieces and nephews from St Louis, MO.
Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory with Father Bruno Ruel presiding. Friends and family are invited to visitation on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of charitable donations of masses for the sick and poor souls. Envelopes will be made available at the funeral home.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with Mrs. Lenna Elder‘s care. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mrs. Elder and sign their virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.