Mildred Ellis, age 96, of Aiken, SC, loving wife for 70 years to the late Edward Ellis and daughter of the late John and Mary Gribik, “graduated” to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 7, 2020. She was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Soltis. She is survived by her only son Craig Ellis and his wife Joanne of Aiken; nephews Rod Soltis and Mike Ellis (Billie); niece Sarah Eldred; and a grandnephew Ken Bodek (Janet) and grandniece Alison Bodek; extended family; and a number of close friends.
She was born in and was a long time resident of Endicott, NY. At Christmas time 2005 she and Ed moved to Aiken, SC, to enjoy their “golden years” near their son and daughter-in-law. She was a dedicated member of St. Joseph’s Church in Endicott before joining St. Mary Help of Christians in Aiken. She also maintained a lifelong friendship with Sister Gabriella from San Antonio and Sister Marge from Cincinnati.
Mildred was a caring, loving, and nurturing mother and friend. She was a meticulous homemaker and loved her home, family and was an excellent cook. Being a first generation American she specialized in traditional Slovak dishes including pierogi and halupki, and carried on many Slovak traditions like blessing of Easter baskets. She was loved and respected by everyone, and will be remembered for the love and kindness that she gave.
Mildred left many friends in her hometown of Endicott. It is impossible to list everyone, but Kathy Seliga, Gerry DelCano, Kathy Rindos, Debbie Zunic, Katie Maione, andTess Sheehan deserve special thanks for “being there” almost every day with prayers, encouragement, and help. After moving to Aiken she was welcomed by many wonderful people also too many to mention. However, life would not have been the same without the love and support of Pat Knight, Shirley Myers, Deacon Bob and Donna Pierce and their family, Beth Yonce, and Elizabeth Burns. And finally, the warm and tender care from the staffs at Westminster Memory Care and Caris Hospice was a blessing to us all.
A Requiem Mass was celebrated at the old historic St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Aiken, SC with The Very Rev. Gregory Wilson officiating.
Visitation will be held at 4 pm Thursday, January 23, 2020 at Allen Memorial Home, with a prayer service following at 5:30 pm. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Johnson City, Friday, January 24 at 11 am.
Memorials in Mildred’s honor may be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 North McKinley Avenue, Endicott, NY 13760, or St. Mary’s Building Fund in Aiken, SC.