At the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Monday October 12th, 2026, Barbara Ellis of Chatham passed away peacefully at the age of 92 years, surrounded by love of family as she made her final destination. “You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”
Cherished daughter of the late Christopher and Idella Warren. Beloved wife of the late John. Loving mother of Karen Ellis-Black (Tom), Ted Ellis (Brenda), Carole McArthur (Bob), Michael Ellis (Darleen), Jeff Ellis (Gail), Joe Ellis (Charlene), and Peter Ellis (Liezl). Predeceased by her son David, daughter Cheryl Machum, and infant daughter Kathyrn-Mary. She will be remembered by her many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Dear sister of Christine Kerr (Les), and predeceased by her sister Kathryn Renn, sisterbond Rosemary and brother Donald Warren.
Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the many invaluable individuals and organizations who provided exceptional care and support.
Special thanks to Dr. Parambil and her dedicated staff, the Medavie Community Paramedics, the team of staff at Ontario Health atHome, and the team at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. We are also profoundly grateful to everyone at The Maples-MyLife Retirement, which Mom warmly called home for the past two years. There, she delighted in building wonderful connections with the staff, forming lasting friendships, and sharing countless laughs with the ladies at what Mom affectionately named “The Friendship Table.”
For as long as we can remember, Mom was an unstoppable force who never stayed idle. An adventurer and traveler by nature, she had a deep love for the outdoors. Born and raised in Windsor, her lifelong passion for the Great Lakes began early; her family lived near the Detroit River, where her father served as Captain of The Windsor, a Wabash car ferry. Later in life, she embraced the opportunity to live in cottage country along the shores of Lake Huron in Bruce County. Her bond with the water ran deep, even inspiring her to earn her Canadian Power Squadron Certificate so she could confidently navigate the lakes herself. Yet, between work, family, and play, Mom always found time to give back, proudly receiving recognition for her 10 years of dedicated volunteer service at Geranium House.
Cremation has taken place. Interment and a Celebration of Life will be at Heavenly Rest in Windsor announced at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the Alexander & Houle Funeral Home, 245 Wellington St. West, Chatham, 519-352-2710. Friends planning an expression of remembrance are asked to consider a charity of their choice. On-line condolences may be shared at www.alexanderandhoulefuneralhome.ca
