Ella Cole Weidman, 87, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the night of Tuesday, July 21st.

Ella was born in Marietta, Georgia, to Margaret and Zollie Cole on February 12th, 1939. Since the age of 7, she developed her passions and helped learned how to read by pouring through home design magazines. At 12 years old she repainted the family room celery green (with her parent’s permission of course,) to match the trends of the time.

She went to Truitt McConnel college before beginning a trail-blazing career as one of the first female designers at a major company in Atlanta with John Wieland Designs. In addition to doing architectural and graphic design work, her specialization in interior design led to her promotion from freelancer to full-time to a senior position, where she was eventually showcased as the feature designer of the 1987 Decorator’s Showhouse at Fox Run Manor. She was regularly included in the print editions of “Who's Who in Design.”

After an early retirement from John Wieland, she started an entrepreneurial career in the 90’s, launching the popular “Pathway of Memories” stepping stone kits that were sold in stores nationwide, available at both Disneyland and Disneyworld. Afterwards, she spent her later years as a member of the Sixes Community Garden Club society, and also organized public events and building renovations for the Cherokee County Historical Society. During her final years, she continued to follow her passion for design and learned drawing and painting, sharing many beautiful pieces with her friends and family.

Ella is survived by her daughter Susan Hill and her sons Tripp White, Shawn White and George Weidman. In addition, Ella leaves behind six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.