Jane Caroline Ellison, age 94, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home on October 15, 2025.
She was born on September 21, 1931, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Carl and Ida (Smith) Spiess.
Jane married Herbert C. Ellison on October 8, 1949, and they lived in Ann Arbor, MI for many years where they raised their family. They retired to Tower, Minnesota and spent their winters in Zapata, Texas, eventually moving to Texas permanently. Herbert preceded her in death in 1998. Jane returned to Michigan to be closer to family, making her home in Chelsea for the past 12 years.
Jane was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea and the Chelsea Senior Center, where she formed many lasting friendships. She had a love for travel, exploring Michigan and much of the United States, and enjoyed reading, going out to dinner, and working with stained glass — creating gifts for her family and friends. She was also an avid University of Michigan football fan.
Jane is survived by a son, Keith Ellison of Chelsea, and a daughter-in-law, Polly Ellison; four grandchildren: Aimee (Ken) Lilley of Virginia, Jenny (Derik) Bollinger of Chelsea, Brian (Alisha) Ellison of Chelsea, and Jimmy (Megan) Ellison of Grass Lake; and nine great-grandchildren: Marissa, Andrew, Vincent, Jacob, Brendon, Delaney, Cora, Hudson, and Ainsley.
In addition to her husband, Herbert, she was preceded in death by a son, Michael J. Ellison, and a daughter, Patricia Baum.
A private service will be held at a later date. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Washtenong Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jane’s honor to the Chelsea Senior Center.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
