Ellaree Ferguson Shands was born on November 19, 1942, to the late Otis Ferguson and Queen Esther Ferguson in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She was educated in Spartanburg County schools. After completing her education, she later retired after more than thirty years of faithful and dedicated service with Spartan Mills.

Ellaree was a devoted member of Harrison Grove Baptist Church, where she faithfully served on the usher's board for many years. Later in life, she moved her membership to St. James Baptist Church in loving support of her brother, Reverend O. C. Ferguson, Sr. There, she continued to serve as an usher and a bus driver until her health declined.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John L. Shands, and siblings, Shirley Peake, Ethel Mae Ferguson, and Odie Lee Ferguson.

Left to honor her life and cherish her loving memory are her son, Randy Shands; daughters, Angie Shands Copeland and Debra (Carlton) Jones; brothers, Reverend O. C. Ferguson, Sr., Rossie Ferguson, and Charles Ferguson; sisters, Janie Ferguson, Rachel (Lonnie) Fair, Barbara Ladson, and Christine Ferguson; eight grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Ellaree peacefully transitioned at her daughter's house, Angie Copeland, on Sunday, January 25, 2026. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.