Barbara Ellsworth

Barbara June (Nelson) Ellsworth, 79, of Belleville, Michigan, went to her heavenly home on March 23, 2026, in Wyandotte, Michigan. Born on October 25, 1946, in Northville, Michigan, Barbara lived a life of faith, love, and service that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara proudly graduated New haven highschool in 1964 and went on to attend the nursing program at Deaconess Hospital in Detroit. She had a remarkable career spanning nearly 44 years, beginning at the Maybury Tuberculosis Sanitarium in Northville. She later worked at Ridgewood Hospital in Ypsilanti until its closure in 1971 and then joined Beyer Hospital, where she served as a nursery, mother-baby, and labor-and-delivery nurse until it closed in 2000. Barbara concluded her career at Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, Mi., retiring in 2011. Her dedication and compassion left an enduring impact on countless lives.

Barbara’s faith was a huge part of her life. She was raised by godly parents, and grew up in the Church. As a young woman, she attended a church camp with her sister where she made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as her Savior. She was a devoted Christian who relied heavily on God throughout her life. Barbara trusted in the plan God had for her, and remained steadfast in her faith.

Barbara enjoyed many things in this life—crocheting for loved ones, rocking babies to sleep, reading, baking cookies for her family and friends, and finding good deals at yard sales. She cherished traveling with friends and family and walking the river at the Romulus recreation center. Above all, she treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She is lovingly remembered by her four children: Richard (Cindy) Ellsworth, Robert (Heidi) Ellsworth, Jeff (Shira) Ellsworth, and Donna (Chad) Boyd; seven siblings: Clearance Nelson, Nancy (Jim) Young, Janet Luzier, Judy Cornacchia, Tom (Sandy) Nelson, Lori Smith, and George (Sharon) Nelson; Twelve grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; numerous extended family members and her church family. Barbara was predeceased by: her parents George and Lucille Nelson; brother-in-laws: Bob Schindler, John Luzier, and Tom Cornacchia; sister-in-law Carol Nelson; granddaughter, Ashley Ellsworth; and nephew Robert Schindler.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 18, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Redemption Bible Church (located inside Antioch Baptist Church), 6538 Rawsonville Rd., with visitation starting at 11:00 AM and a luncheon to follow.

Barbara’s life was a testament to love, faith, and service—a legacy that will endure for generations. May her memory and testimony bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.