Ellen Gill McCarty died last weekend, and the tributes on social media testify to the impact she had on family, friends and diners during a long and noteworthy culinary career.
We’ve lost a true talent, and an even truer friend. Chef Ellen brought joy to every table—she loved making people smile with every bite. Her food will be forever remembered, just as she will be. We love you, Chef Ellen. Thank you for feeding our hearts, filling our bellies, and making us all a little happier.
Here is an excerpt from Chef Ellen’s obituary at Pearson Funeral Home.
Ellen attended the University of Kentucky while also working at the family restaurant, Science Hill Inn, in Shelbyville, KY. Initially, the weekend and part-time work was her dad’s way of keeping her close. His strategy worked, but only because Ellen fell in love with the culinary arts. By her last year in Lexington, she decided to pursue her creative passion and apply for acceptance to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY.
She was accepted and spent the next three years studying with the world’s most talented culinary professionals. As part of the curriculum, she spent a semester working at one of the leading restaurants in Carmel, CA.
After graduation, she studied in Europe for several more months under the tutelage of Europe’s leading chefs. With the culinary world in front of her, she made the decision to return home to work alongside her mother and father, bringing her international talent to Science Hill Inn as a co-owner. She had a remarkable career that further cemented her reputation as one of Kentucky’s best chefs.
Visitation will be 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 16th at Pearson’s (149 Breckenridge Ln.) The funeral service is at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday April 17th, 2025, at Pearson’s (chefs are requested to wear their whites), with a private family-only burial at Cave Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to APRON Inc.
Cover photo by Dan Dry
