Ellena May Tilson, born November 12, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, in Albany, Oregon. The daughter of Viola and Russell Beougher, Ellena grew up beneath the Arizona sun before setting out in her twenties to build a new life in Oregon.

Over the years, Ellena lived in Salem, Stayton, Klamath Falls, and finally Sweet Home, where she spent the last 13 years surrounded by the quiet beauty she cherished. Her final home held one of her greatest delights, a beautiful garden she tended with care and looked forward to nurturing each season.

In her younger years, Ellena was full of energy and spirit. She embraced the freedom of seasonal work while traveling, camping, and picking berries, finding joy in the rhythm of nature and the simplicity of life on the road. Weekends often found her singing karaoke, laughing with friends, and line dancing late into the night.

She carried that same vibrancy into motherhood, where she poured her heart into raising her daughter with love, strength, and unwavering faith. Deeply spiritual, Ellena loved teaching others about God and sharing the comfort and hope she found in her beliefs.

Ellena had a playful side too, as she was famously "addicted" to Mickey and Minnie Mouse, collecting memorabilia with childlike delight. She enjoyed collecting jewelry, Bingo nights, and trips to the casino, where she savored the fun and excitement of the moment.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Rick Tilson, whom she loved dearly.

Ellena is survived by her brother Rusty Beougher; her sister Sharon Ropas; and her daughter Lisa Tilson, who will forever carry her mother's love and legacy in her heart. She is also survived by her 2 faithful Chihuahua companions Maya and Mr. McGee.

Ellena's life was shaped by resilience, faith, joy, and a deep appreciation for the simple gifts of the world around her. She will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, her devotion to family, and the gentle spirit she shared with all who knew her.