Ellen M. (Axton) Kustra, 76, of Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of Chicopee, MA, passed away on April 21, 2025. She was born on March 29, 1949, in Holyoke, MA, to the late Eileen (Mulvihill) Axton and Benjamin Axton.

Ellen was a history buff, avid reader, teacher, dollhouse and miniature collector, and devoted family genealogist. Her curiosity and love for learning were constant throughout her life.

Ellen is survived by her beloved husband of 52 years, Lawrence J. Kustra of Myrtle Beach, SC; her daughter Stefanie Kustra and her fiancé Christopher Reddy of San Diego, CA; her sisters Mary Norman of Brimfield, MA and Anne Axton-Jones of Myrtle Beach, SC; her nieces and nephews, including Patricia Norman-Simpson, Mary-Laura (Midge) Norman-Barker, David Norman, Kaitlin Roberts, Daniel Jones, Robert Kustra, Darlene Coolong, Laurie Labrie, Kristen Christopher, Matthew Peetz, and Cheryl Reilly. Ellen also enjoyed a large extended family including many great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, and many life-long friends.

She was preceded in death by her sister Elizabeth Niland, brother-in-law Stanley Kustra, sister-in-law Patricia Kustra, and Eileenmari Leclerc.

In memory of Ellen, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a cause close to her heart. A celebration of life for Ellen will be held in the future with a date to be announced.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Horry County Emergency Services for their care and support.