11/04/2026
On the eve of her birthday, we take a moment to celebrate a woman whose legacy will forever be part of the Miss Manatee story. 💜
Remembering Ellen Meade | Miss Florida 1973
Ellen was so much more than a crown and a title. She was a performer, educator, mentor, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for the young women whose lives she touched.
From representing Manatee County on the Miss Florida stage to earning recognition at Miss America, Ellen built a remarkable career in the performing arts and dedicated decades of her life to teaching, producing, and mentoring others.
Her influence on our local pageant community is immeasurable. Through her years of involvement in Manatee County pageantry, she helped create opportunities, inspire confidence, and encourage young women to dream bigger.
When we brought the Miss Manatee Scholarship Organization back to life, we did so with a desire to carry forward the legacy of a woman who meant so much to this community.
Today, that legacy lives on through every contestant who steps onto our stage, every scholarship awarded, every young woman who discovers her potential, and every life touched by this program.
Ellen, your crown may have been worn in 1973, but your impact continues to shine through generations.
Happy Birthday in Heaven. We celebrate you, we remember you, and we are forever grateful for the foundation you helped build. 💜🦋
Forever Miss Manatee. Forever Miss Florida. Forever remembered.
