Mary Britts

Mary Ellen Lamb Britts, 86, of Salem, Va., passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026.

On a cold Sunday morning at 9:45 a.m., the only child of the late Giles W. (Talley) Lamb and Ella Surber Lamb arrived at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Pearisburg, Va. The baby girl was named Mary Ellen for both of her grandmothers, Mary Brown Surber and Georgia Ellen Lamb.

She grew up in Pearisburg, became a Red Devil, and graduated with the Class of 1958 from Pearisburg High School. It was off to Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, Va., where she not only made lifelong friends, but received her degree in nursing. A registered nurse, she lovingly and proudly provided care for many, finally retiring at the age of 80.

Mary Ellen and her late husband, Donald Gray Britts, were married for 61 years, had two children, and made wonderful memories. She was a member of Ridgewood Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her daughter, Lisa Britts McDaniel.

Her surviving family includes her son, Brian Britts (Missy); granddaughter, Bree Smith; grandson, Seth McDaniel; great-granddaughters, Lani Grey Poole and Calesha Mans; great-grandson, Nazareth Mans; and sons-in-law, Wayne McDaniel and Kevin Craft.

Family members and friends may gather for a celebration of Mary Ellen's life from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel located at 305 Roanoke Boulevard in Salem, Va. Join us for a casual gathering as we honor the life and memories of Mary Ellen Britts. Friends and family are encouraged to wear red or pink - her favorite colors.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.