Ellanore (aka: Ellie) was born in Fargo, North Dakota. She lived most of her life in Oregon. She graduated from Oregon City High School, which is where she met her husband, Herman Woodford. They wed in August of 1952. Oregon City was home to her, her husband and children all but 10 years (1963-1973), where they resided in Coburg, Oregon.

Ellie is survived by her son Steven, daughters Paula Graville, Rebecca Ashley, 9 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 4 great great grandchildren.