Evangelist Ethel Louise Durrette

Evangelist Ethel Louise Durrette of 3605 Elliott Boulevard Augusta, Georgia entered into rest on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at her residence. She was born on December 3, 1944 to the late Taylor and Viola Ramsey in Lincolnton, GA. At an early age, she accepted Jesus as her savior at First Mount Carmel Baptist Church where she served in the choir and other ministries. She graduated from John P. Blanchard Consolidated High School in Columbia County at the age of 16, and attended Fisk University and Clark Atlanta University.

In 1963, Louise enlisted in the U.S. Army and served for several years before leaving to work a variety of civilian jobs. No matter where she worked, nothing was more important to her than singing and praising the Lord as a member of various quartets and gospel choirs. Her anointing and gift for song were wildly sought-after throughout the CSRA and surrounding counties.  She retired from the Augusta-Richmond County Human Relations Commission and that’s when her life’s work really began. She not only helped managed the family’s business, A&D Auto Repair, but also launched It's A Family Affair This and That thrift store, where she sold clothing, jewelry and small household items. Her little role as shopkeeper turned into community counselor as she cultivated relationships with residents, often talking to them about life, family and Jesus Christ. A ministry was born.

Her life will be cherished by a loving and devoted husband of 45 years, Alphonso Durrette; two darling daughters, Alkeesha Durrette-Brown (Allen) and Willette Durrette; two strong sons, Alvin Durrette and Alphonso Durrette; brother, Larry Ramsey (Cheryl); three sisters, Ruth Hester (George), Elaine Jones and Barbara Bowie; devoted sister-in-laws, Sandra Ramsey, Nancy McCauley (Hayward) and Pauline Wallace (Wardell); two brother-in-laws, Roger Durrette (Marie) and Daniel Durrette; and grandchildren, Patrick, Kia, Melanie, Chris, Tyler and Tajah. She is also survived by nephew, Mel Ramsey; nieces, Valerie Ramsey and Vikki Conwell; devoted cousin, Shirley H. Robinson, an amazing caregiver and friend, Norma B. Jackson; and a host of cousins, friends and family. 

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