Elaine Hill Ory was born October 25, 1927 to Henry Clay and Lelan Hill in Salado, Texas.
She graduated from Salado High School in 1945 and attended Southwestern University and
then Southwest Texas State (now Texas State) to receive her Bachelor’s degree. Later she
received a Master’s degree from Eastern New Mexico University. She enjoyed teaching in
Holland and Kerrville, Texas and served as teacher and principal in Clovis, New Mexico in a
career spanning over 35 years.
Elaine married Willie B. Ory in 1951 and they moved to Clovis, NM where Willie B. was an
investigator for the USDA. Upon their retirement, they moved back to their home place just East
of Salado to ranch and enjoy their log home. After the death of Bill in 2001, Elaine continued to
manage their cattle and place until her death in November 2024.
She was a member of the Salado United Methodist Church; Served on the cemetery board and
was a proud member of Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Preceding her in death were her
parents, Henry Clay and Lelan Hill, her husband, Willie B., her Brother H.C. Hill and half-sister,
Wanda Pope.
She is survived by two sons and their wives: Bill and Bonnie Ory, Richard and Tamara Ory;
grandchildren: Taylor and Jess Ory, Avery Ory and Kathrine Starr, Will and Shelby Ory, Lori
Keathley, and Blake Worlow; great grandchildren: Jason, Madison Grace, Kalen, Ki, Kolsen,
Avery, and Brilynne; great great grandchildren: Kato and Kolt.
Services in the care of Broecker Funeral Home of Salado.