Shirley was born on February 23, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan to Mary and Walter.  They had four children Shirley, two sisters, Jeanette and Elinor, and one brother, George.

Shirley met Peter Ellis, the love of her life, and they married December 8, 1957 at Saint Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Detroit Michigan.  Loving parents to William, Rebecca, Robert, and Brian.  They had a beautiful and loving family life in Michigan.

The birth of their first two grandchildren Lauren and Erik brought them to California.  Shirley and Peter were happy to become YiaYa & PaPou to Lauren and Heather (Robert & Molly), Zach and Danielle (Brian & Anita), and Erik (Rebecca).  From California they traveled annually to visit family and friends in Michigan and Chicago.

In San Diego, they joined the parish of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church where they sowed seeds of kindness, fellowship and love.  They joined the Baking group and the Prime Timers and went on retreats to St. Nicholas Ranch.  At these retreats Pete orchestrated themes when it was time to dress up.  Typically, he and Shirley won best costume.  They were known as an entertaining duo, performing their George Burns/Gracie Allen skits.  They are likely performing now for their new unsuspecting audience.

Shirley was always known for her kind heart, her sweet nature, and her sense of humor; after all she was married to Peter Ellis.  Life changed when Shirley began suffering from the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, but their love and devotion never wavered.  Peter visited Shirley daily at her new home until his very last day.  They enjoyed a wonderful life together of 61 years.

There are no words adequate to describe the wonderful wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend and person she was to so many.  We were fortunate to have her in our lives.  Her love, compassion and smile will forever be remembered.

The Ellis Family wishes to acknowledge with gratitude each act of kindness and every expression of sympathy shown during their time of sorrow.

May her memory be eternal.

In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to:

Alzheimer's San Diego, OBO the Shirley Ellis Foundation

6632 Convoy Court

San Diego, CA 92111

www.alzsd.com

Alzheimer's San Diego - Providing Care & Support for San Diego