Darlene A Ellis

🕊️ In Loving Memory of Darlene Allison Ellis

November 2, 1963 – October 16, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Darlene Allison Ellis, a radiant soul whose intelligence, warmth, and devotion to family left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.

Born on November 2, 1963, Darlene was the beloved daughter of the late Gloria Washington Ellis and James Ellis. She was raised in a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values—principles she carried with her throughout her life.

Darlene was academically gifted and attended Science High School through advanced placement, a reflection of her sharp intellect and drive and very intuitive. She later built a dedicated career working for Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey for many years, and also served her community through her work with Newark Sanitation.

Darlene was preceded in death by her grandparents Harvey W. Washington and Dora Washington, Margaret Ellis; her siblings James Ellis Jr., Celeste J. Ellis, and Byron A. Ellis; her nephew Larry Y. Pulliam, who was like one of her children;and Donald Gillette, whose memory she cherished deeply.

She is survived by her loving father James Ellis and stepmother Brenda Ellis; her devoted siblings Brian J. Washington, April Ellis Francois (Eddie Francois), Crystal Fenty Dey-El (Derek Fenty Dey-El), Kevin Hall, Tamica Cunningham, and Holly Ellis; and her sister-in-law Tina Ellis, who will forever hold her in their hearts.

She leaves behind her four beloved children: Kendell D. Ellis, Aniyyah J. Ellis, Amber Ellis, and Donna Ellis Gillette, as well as her treasured grandson, affectionately known as Baby K. Darlene’s love for her children and grandchild was boundless, and her nurturing spirit lives on through them.

She also embraced her bonus children, Karon Tate and Kania Price, with the same warmth and devotion, extending her love and guidance to them as part of her family.

Darlene’s nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. She was like a second mother to many of her nieces and nephews, offering guidance, comfort, and unconditional love. She also opened her heart and home to children in need, providing them with safety, support, and a sense of belonging. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her impact will be felt for generations.

Darlene deeply cherished the spiritual connection she shared with her sisters.

Her presence was a gift, her laughter a comfort, and her memory a blessing. Darlene will be remembered for her grace, her strength, and the love she gave so freely.

You could always count on a birthday phone call from Darlene—she’d sing “Happy Birthday” with joy and heart, making each loved one feel special and celebrated. It was one of the many ways she showed her love, and those calls will be deeply missed.