Ella Lee Brazier

Ella Lee Brazier was born on July 24, 1925, in Bryarly, Texas to Allie Lee and Levencer Horton. From the very beginning, she had a strong spirit, a sharp eye, and just enough attitude to make sure everybody stayed in line—or at least knew they were out of line. In 1944, she married Henry Randall Jr., and together they built a lively and loving family. They had eight children, including their only son, Lanelle, who passed at birth. Ella was blessed with seven daughters—Delores, Mary Lou, Gloria Jean, Verna Dean, Rosa Linda, Ella Jo, and Alice Faye—who survive her and proudly carry on her legacy (and, if we’re honest, a little bit of her personality too). She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren, along with a growing number of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Every one of them experienced her love—whether it showed up as a warm meal, a life lesson, or some very direct “feedback” about how they looked that day. As a young girl, Ella Lee rode her horse, Big Red, everywhere. Before independence was something people talked about, she was already out there living it—riding around like she owned the place. Ella was a gifted professional seamstress with impeccable style. She made beautiful, fashionable clothing for herself and her family and loved teaching others how to sew. If something didn’t fit right, she would fix it. And if you didn’t look right… well, she might fix that too—with a few choice words. She spent much of her life caring for her grandchildren, pouring love into each of them. Her first grandchild, Gerold, held a special place in her heart—and in her kitchen—where she created his favorite dish, lovingly known as “chickenfeed.” No one ever questioned the name… they just ate it. In her earlier years, Ella Lee worked as a maid and at Zales, but no matter where she was, one thing was certain—her presence would be felt. Quiet was never really her thing. Ella Lee shared a close bond with her sisters and loved a good phone call. In this family, “Don’t tell nobody” really meant “give it five minutes.” Somehow, everybody always knew—and honestly, she probably told them herself. She was strong-willed, opinionated, and refreshingly honest. If you were gaining a little weight or not looking your best, Ella believed it was her responsibility—maybe even her calling—to let you know. In her world, looking good mattered, and she was just trying to help… whether you asked or not. After moving to California, Ella Lee embraced Islam, an important and meaningful part of her life. Years later, she married Richard Brazier, and they lived in Compton for several years before moving to Las Vegas in 1990, where she continued doing what she did best—living life exactly how she wanted. Ella Lee loved to gamble and visit thrift stores, always on the hunt for antiques and hidden treasures. She had a gift for spotting value where others might not—and she carried that same outlook into how she loved her family. Ella Lee Brazier will be remembered for her strength, her style, her honesty, and her humor. She loved deeply, spoke freely, and never left anyone wondering what she was thinking. Her legacy lives on through her daughters, grandchildren, and everyone lucky enough to have been loved—and occasionally corrected—by her.

Ella Lee Brazier

July 24, 1925 - April 11, 2026