The inquiry pertains to establishing the date of death and subsequent memorial service for Mary Lillian Ellison, known professionally as The Fabulous Moolah. This individual was a prominent figure in professional wrestling, particularly noted for her lengthy reign as Women’s Champion.
Determining the exact date surrounding the ceremonies held to honor Ellison provides a concrete endpoint to her influential career and allows for a better understanding of the wrestling community’s reaction to her passing. It also serves as a significant marker in the timeline of women’s wrestling history, helping to contextualize subsequent developments within the sport.
Information regarding the specific date of her funeral service can be obtained through reputable sources, including news archives, wrestling history websites, and biographical materials dedicated to Ellison’s life and career. This information is vital for accurate reporting and historical documentation.
1. November 2, 2007
November 2, 2007, represents the date of Mary Lillian Ellison’s, also known as The Fabulous Moolah’s, funeral service. Establishing this date is crucial to answering the question of when the funeral occurred and contextualizing subsequent discussions about her life and legacy.
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Memorial Service Location
The funeral was held in South Carolina. The specific location within the state is significant as it reflects Ellison’s connection to the region and potentially offers insight into her personal life outside of professional wrestling. The geographical context provides a sense of place for those wishing to understand where final respects were paid.
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Nature of the Service
The service was described as private. This implies a focus on family and close friends, signaling a desire for intimacy during a time of mourning. A private service contrasts with the very public persona Ellison cultivated throughout her career, demonstrating a need for personal closure among those closest to her.
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Wrestling Community Attendance
While the service was private, representatives from the professional wrestling world were likely in attendance. Their presence would indicate the impact Ellison had on the industry and the respect she garnered from her peers. Understanding who attended provides insight into her network and influence.
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Historical Significance
The date itself, November 2, 2007, marks a definitive point in wrestling history. It represents the end of an era and prompts reflection on Ellison’s contributions, controversies, and place within the sport. Recognizing the date is essential for accurate historical record-keeping and analysis of women’s wrestling development.
In summary, the date “November 2, 2007” is not merely a date on a calendar; it signifies the date of the memorial, a culminating point in Mary Lillian Ellison’s life. The context surrounding the service, including its location, nature, potential attendees, and broader historical significance, helps to fully answer the question regarding the event’s timing and to contextualize its importance within the wrestling community and beyond.
2. South Carolina Location
The location of the funeral service for The Fabulous Moolah in South Carolina is inextricably linked to determining when the service took place. While November 2, 2007 provides the temporal marker, the state of South Carolina provides geographical context, rooting the event in a specific place. The selection of South Carolina as the location was likely influenced by Ellison’s personal connections to the region. Without establishing this location, the timeline surrounding her death lacks a crucial element of specificity. For example, understanding the location could help researchers locate local news archives from that region, potentially providing further information about the service and tributes.
Furthermore, the fact that the memorial took place in South Carolina might inform analyses of her career and legacy. Did she have close ties to the local wrestling scene? Was she involved in community initiatives within the state? Answers to these questions, potentially triggered by the knowledge of the South Carolina location, deepen our understanding of her life beyond her professional wrestling persona. Without knowing that the service occurred in South Carolina, such lines of inquiry would be less likely to be pursued.
In summary, identifying South Carolina as the location of the service anchors “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” in a tangible reality. This location prompts further exploration into Ellison’s life beyond her career, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of her impact. Although the date provides the temporal framework, the location grounds the event, highlighting the importance of geographical context in historical documentation.
3. Private Service
The designation of the memorial event as a “Private Service” is directly relevant to the question of “when was the fabulous moolah funeral.” While the date, November 2, 2007, provides the temporal marker, and the South Carolina location offers geographical context, the “Private Service” status influences the availability of detailed information and subsequent historical documentation. Because it was private, access to details regarding the attendees, specific eulogies, or precise order of service is limited compared to a public event. This limitation affects the granularity of the historical record concerning Ellison’s final tribute. For example, public funerals often generate extensive news coverage, including transcripts of speeches or lists of prominent attendees. A private service, by its nature, restricts such external reporting.
The “Private Service” designation also affects the interpretation of the event’s significance. While it might suggest a focus on the immediate family and close friends, it also raises questions about the potential for internal family dynamics or specific wishes of the deceased influencing the decision to maintain privacy. Understanding the implications of this privacy is crucial in avoiding speculation and ensuring responsible historical representation. The lack of public access necessitates a reliance on verified, credible sources should any information about the service emerge. Without acknowledging and accounting for the “Private Service” status, any analysis of Ellison’s passing and memorial would be incomplete and potentially misleading.
In summary, while “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” is answered by the date, the “Private Service” status contextualizes how and why information is scarce. This understanding is essential for responsible historical analysis and documentation. The inherent limitations imposed by the private nature of the event necessitate reliance on verifiable sources and careful interpretation to avoid speculation and ensure an accurate portrayal of events surrounding Ellison’s passing and final tribute. The knowledge that the service was private is thus inextricably linked to understanding the scope and limitations of available information concerning it.
4. Wrestling Community’s Respect
The demonstration of respect from the wrestling community at the time of the memorial service, a key component linked to “when was the fabulous moolah funeral,” provides significant insight into the perception and influence of Mary Lillian Ellison within the professional wrestling world. The date of the service, November 2, 2007, serves as a focal point, and any expressions of respect displayed before, during, or shortly after this date contribute to a comprehensive understanding of her impact. The level of respect shown, whether through attendance at the service, public statements of condolence, or memorial tributes in wrestling publications, serves as a measure of her standing within the industry.
Examples of this respect could include prominent wrestlers or figures within the wrestling business attending the private service in South Carolina, despite its limited accessibility. Public statements from wrestling organizations acknowledging her contributions and legacy also provide tangible evidence of this respect. Furthermore, dedicated segments or tributes on wrestling television programs aired around the time of the funeral would underscore the community’s recognition of her significance. The absence of such displays of respect, conversely, could lead to alternative interpretations of her standing within the industry, potentially highlighting controversies or mixed feelings regarding her career.
In conclusion, the wrestling community’s respect, evidenced by actions and acknowledgments surrounding the date of the funeral, forms a critical component of the narrative surrounding Mary Lillian Ellison’s passing. This aspect provides valuable context for interpreting her legacy and its significance within the history of professional wrestling. Understanding the degree and nature of this respect is therefore crucial for responsible historical analysis and nuanced appreciation of her place within the sport.
5. Legacy Celebration
The concept of a “Legacy Celebration” following “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” encompasses the various ways in which Mary Lillian Ellison’s contributions to professional wrestling were commemorated and remembered in the period following her passing. The funeral date of November 2, 2007, serves as the starting point for examining these tributes and analyses of her influence on the sport.
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Documentary and Archival Focus
Post-funeral, there was an increased focus on producing documentaries, biographies, and archival footage showcasing her career. This archival activity aimed to preserve her historical significance and provide context for future generations of wrestlers and fans. The existence and content of these productions are directly linked to the recognition of her legacy, amplified following her death.
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“Moolah’s Influence on Female Wrestlers”
Celebrations of her legacy often include acknowledgement of the impact Ellison had on women in wrestling. Examining the careers of wrestlers she trained or influenced, analyzing their styles, and observing their opportunities compared to earlier eras become vital. This influence is part of an ongoing narrative, its impact reassessed and discussed as female wrestling continues to evolve.
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Hall of Fame Recognition and Re-evaluations
While Ellison was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, discussions about her legacy often involve re-evaluating the complex nature of her career, including controversies. The ongoing debates around her Hall of Fame status highlight the ongoing process of grappling with her complicated impact. These discussions, occurring in the years following her death, are an intrinsic part of the “Legacy Celebration,” acknowledging both her contributions and the contentious aspects of her professional life.
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Tributes and Dedications in Wrestling Events
Following the date of the service, various wrestling promotions and organizations made tribute to Mary Lillian Ellison. This could include dedicating matches in her honor, mentioning her accomplishments during broadcasts, or establishing awards or scholarships in her name. Such tributes reflect the ongoing appreciation for her role and influence within the sport. The scale and nature of these dedications contribute to a comprehensive understanding of her lasting impact.
In essence, the “Legacy Celebration” surrounding “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” is a multifaceted process, encompassing documentary efforts, analyses of her influence, ongoing debates, and public tributes. These elements, viewed collectively, provide a complex and nuanced portrait of Mary Lillian Ellison’s place within professional wrestling history.
6. Media Coverage
The extent and nature of media coverage surrounding the death and funeral, directly linked to “when was the fabulous moolah funeral,” provide a valuable metric for assessing Mary Lillian Ellison’s public profile and the wrestling world’s perception of her contributions. The temporal anchor of November 2, 2007, allows for focused examination of media reports from that period, offering insights that other records may lack.
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Initial News Reports and Obituaries
The initial news reports and obituaries published immediately following her death establish the immediate public reaction. Major news outlets and wrestling-specific publications provide a baseline understanding of how her passing was framed and the key achievements highlighted. These articles reflect the initial assessment of her legacy and offer insights into her public perception at the time.
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Wrestling Trade Publication Coverage
Wrestling trade publications, websites, and newsletters offered in-depth perspectives on her career, legacy, and impact on the business. This coverage would likely contain tributes from peers, analysis of her wrestling style, and discussions regarding her role in the evolution of women’s wrestling. These outlets offer a more granular perspective than mainstream media, focusing specifically on her wrestling-related contributions and influence.
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Controversy Reporting and Ethical Considerations
Media coverage also extends to any reporting regarding the controversies surrounding her career. How these controversies were addressed, or not addressed, in initial reports is informative about the ethical considerations of the media at the time and influences how current generations view and interpret her legacy. Omission of certain details might suggest a desire to present a simplified or sanitized version of her story, while inclusion indicates a commitment to acknowledging the complexities of her life.
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Long-term Retrospective Analysis
Media coverage did not cease on the funeral date; retrospective analyses, documentaries, and articles published years later continue to shape public perception. These long-term reflections offer updated interpretations of her legacy, often incorporating new perspectives and addressing criticisms that may have been absent in initial reports. The evolution of media coverage over time provides insight into the ongoing re-evaluation of her impact and the wrestling world’s shifting understanding of her career.
In conclusion, media coverage surrounding “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” is not merely a record of events but a lens through which her life, career, and legacy are viewed, interpreted, and re-evaluated. Analyzing the scope, content, and evolution of this coverage provides critical context for understanding her place in wrestling history and the ongoing debates surrounding her contributions.
7. Family Attendance
The presence of family members at the funeral service, held on November 2, 2007, is fundamentally linked to understanding “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” as a deeply personal event, rather than merely a historical marker. Attendance by immediate and extended family served as a reflection of Mary Lillian Ellison’s life outside of the wrestling persona of The Fabulous Moolah. It underscored the human element often obscured by her public image. The presence, or absence, of specific family members could offer insights into familial relationships, their support during her career, and their personal grief at her passing. For instance, the attendance of close relatives would naturally signify the significance of family bonds in Ellison’s life, while the absence of others might trigger further, sensitive exploration of family dynamics. The funeral, and by extension the date it occurred, becomes a focal point for understanding the totality of her life, both public and private.
The nature of “Family Attendance” also informs the limitations on available information. Given the private nature of the service, details regarding specific attendees or eulogies given by family members are likely scarce. This enforced privacy means researchers must rely on indirect sources, such as mentions in obituaries or biographical accounts, to reconstruct the familial presence. Understanding the context of familial relationships can allow for a more informed interpretation of these sparse details. Consider, for example, the differing impact of a tribute from a spouse versus that from a distant cousin. Each contributes a unique perspective rooted in the specific nature of their relationship. Furthermore, any public statements made by family members following the service provide valuable first-hand accounts, offering a counterbalance to the more generalized portrayals of her legacy. This understanding is vital for responsible biographical reporting.
In conclusion, “Family Attendance” transforms “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” from a singular event into a complex tapestry of personal relationships, public image, and historical significance. Acknowledging and exploring the role of family underscores the multifaceted nature of Mary Lillian Ellison’s life and ensures that any examination of her legacy goes beyond the wrestling ring. While challenges arise from the inherent limitations of a private service, the attempt to acknowledge and understand family involvement is critical to a balanced and comprehensive historical portrayal. The attendance itself is the key to unlocking understanding and further exploration.
8. Memorial Tributes
Memorial tributes surrounding the date of The Fabulous Moolah’s funeral, November 2, 2007, offer crucial insight into the perceived impact and legacy of Mary Lillian Ellison. These tributes, expressed through various channels, serve as reflections on her contributions to professional wrestling and provide a barometer of her standing within the industry and among fans.
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Public Statements from Wrestling Personalities
Public statements released by fellow wrestlers, promoters, and wrestling organizations serve as direct reflections on their experiences with Ellison and their assessment of her contributions. These statements often highlight specific achievements, personal anecdotes, and expressions of grief. The content and tone of these pronouncements provide an immediate gauge of the respect and admiration she garnered during her career, both in and out of the ring. The sincerity and prevalence of such tributes can either reinforce or challenge existing narratives about her legacy.
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Dedicated Segments on Wrestling Broadcasts
Wrestling television programs dedicating segments to Ellison’s memory offer visual and auditory tributes, reaching a wide audience of wrestling fans. These segments frequently feature highlight reels of her career, interviews with those who knew her, and expressions of respect from current wrestlers. The nature of these broadcasts, including the production value, the length of the segment, and the tone of the presenters, indicates the significance placed on her legacy by the broadcast organizations. Furthermore, the inclusion or omission of potentially controversial aspects of her career within these tributes reveals the narratives that these organizations wish to perpetuate.
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Fan-Created Memorials and Online Forums
The rise of internet forums and fan communities allows individuals to express their condolences and share personal memories of Ellison. These online memorials provide a space for fans to collectively grieve and celebrate her career. Analyzing the content of these forums, the stories shared, and the sentiments expressed provides insight into her connection with her audience and the ways in which her wrestling persona resonated with fans from different eras. The quantity and longevity of these online tributes, even years after her death, demonstrate the enduring impact she had on individuals who followed her career.
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Charitable Donations and Scholarships in Her Name
The establishment of charitable donations or scholarships in Mary Lillian Ellison’s name serves as a tangible legacy, extending beyond her wrestling achievements. These initiatives, often focused on supporting women in sports or providing educational opportunities, reflect a desire to transform her influence into positive action. The level of financial support these initiatives receive demonstrates the commitment of individuals and organizations to perpetuating her memory in a meaningful way, addressing issues that may have been important to her or correcting past wrongs.
In conclusion, the memorial tributes surrounding the date are varied and multifaceted, extending from formal public statements to personal expressions of grief and admiration. These tributes, whether expressed through traditional media, online forums, or charitable endeavors, provide a complex and nuanced portrait of her legacy, shaped by both her achievements and the controversies surrounding her career. Analyzing these tributes collectively allows for a comprehensive understanding of Mary Lillian Ellison’s impact on the world of professional wrestling and her lasting influence on those who followed her career.
9. Reflection on Career
The period surrounding the funeral on November 2, 2007, triggered widespread reflection on Mary Lillian Ellison’s career, impacting how “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” is understood. This retrospective analysis considered both her significant contributions and the controversies that marked her time in professional wrestling. The date, therefore, does not simply denote the end of her life but marks a catalyst for a broader evaluation of her legacy. For example, the timing spurred numerous articles and documentaries examining her role in shaping women’s wrestling, while also confronting allegations of exploitative practices. This dualistic approach is crucial, as a celebration of her accomplishments without acknowledging the controversies provides an incomplete, potentially misleading, historical account. The timing of the funeral service focused attention from wrestling historians, journalists, and fans alike to look back at and scrutinize her influence on the sport, both positive and negative.
Examples of this reflection are evident in the surge of biographical pieces and documentaries produced in the years following her death. These works, frequently released in association with significant anniversaries related to her career or the date of her passing, demonstrate the enduring need to reconcile the complexities of her legacy. The media’s focus shifted to analyzing not only her in-ring achievements but also her business practices, her relationships with other wrestlers, and the broader cultural context of the eras in which she wrestled. For instance, specific documentaries addressed the disparity between her public persona and accusations of financial exploitation leveled against her by some female wrestlers. This scrutiny contributed to a more nuanced, although at times unsettling, understanding of her role in the sport.
In conclusion, “when was the fabulous moolah funeral” cannot be separated from the subsequent and ongoing reflection on her career. The date acts as a pivot point, prompting a critical examination of her contributions alongside the ethical dilemmas she presented. Without understanding the significance of this reflective process, the historical context of the funeral is diminished, and the complexities of her legacy are obscured. The challenges lie in navigating the often-conflicting narratives, relying on verifiable sources, and maintaining a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the positive and negative aspects of her influence on professional wrestling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding the circumstances surrounding the funeral service for Mary Lillian Ellison, known as The Fabulous Moolah.
Question 1: What is the date of The Fabulous Moolah’s funeral?
The funeral service occurred on November 2, 2007.
Question 2: Where did the funeral service take place?
The service was held in South Carolina.
Question 3: Was the funeral a public or private event?
The service was a private event, primarily attended by family and close friends.
Question 4: Is there a publicly accessible guest list from the funeral?
Due to the private nature of the service, a comprehensive and publicly available guest list is not accessible.
Question 5: Were there any formal tributes or memorial services held in conjunction with the funeral?
While the funeral itself was private, various wrestling organizations and individuals issued public statements and dedicated broadcast segments to honoring her legacy around that time.
Question 6: How does the date of the funeral service factor into understanding her legacy?
The date serves as a focal point for retrospective analysis of her contributions to professional wrestling, triggering discussions about her impact and controversies within the sport.
These answers provide factual clarification regarding the event. Further research into biographical materials and wrestling history resources can offer a more comprehensive understanding of Mary Lillian Ellison’s life and legacy.
The subsequent sections will delve into various resources for further research.
Tips for Researching The Fabulous Moolah’s Funeral
Conducting research into the date and circumstances surrounding the death and funeral of Mary Lillian Ellison requires a meticulous approach. The following tips will aid in navigating the complexities of her legacy and finding credible information.
Tip 1: Begin with Reputable Sources: Prioritize established wrestling history websites, biographical resources, and reputable news archives. These sources are more likely to contain verified information and avoid speculation.
Tip 2: Cross-Reference Information: Compare information from multiple sources to identify consistent details and potential discrepancies. This process helps to assess the reliability of the data.
Tip 3: Consult Archival Resources: Explore local news archives in South Carolina, the location of the funeral. These may contain articles and obituaries providing firsthand accounts and details not found elsewhere.
Tip 4: Analyze Wrestling Trade Publications: Examine wrestling-specific publications and websites from 2007 and subsequent years. These sources offer insight into the wrestling community’s response and the initial assessments of her legacy.
Tip 5: Acknowledge Controversies: Be aware of the controversies surrounding her career. Any research must acknowledge accusations of exploitation. Failing to do so results in a distorted historical view.
Tip 6: Approach with Sensitivity: Research should be conducted with respect for the deceased and consideration for the sensitivities surrounding her personal life and potential controversies. Avoid sensationalism.
Tip 7: Understand Source Limitations: Recognize the limitations imposed by the private nature of the funeral service. Detailed information may be scarce, requiring reliance on indirect sources and careful interpretation.
Adhering to these tips ensures research is conducted thoroughly and responsibly, resulting in a nuanced, informed understanding of Mary Lillian Ellison’s death, funeral, and legacy. Employing verifiable information from multiple places is crucial.
By following these guidelines, one can delve deeper into the circumstances of The Fabulous Moolah’s funeral and the broader impact of her life.
Conclusion
The preceding exploration has established November 2, 2007, as the date of the funeral service for Mary Lillian Ellison, known as The Fabulous Moolah. Furthermore, it has highlighted the significance of understanding the private nature of the service held in South Carolina, the wrestling community’s reaction, and the subsequent reflections on her complex legacy. Each element contributes to a comprehensive understanding of this definitive point in wrestling history.
Acknowledging the date and the surrounding circumstances prompts ongoing, critical engagement with Ellison’s contributions and controversies. Further research and analysis, utilizing reputable sources, can refine understanding of her lasting impact on professional wrestling and the broader cultural landscape. Her death is a permanent point in wrestling history. The date serves as a reminder of the constant re-evaluation needed for historical figures. The exploration of her final memorial should be continuous.
