Kristen M. Ellington

1/29/1972 - 11/14/2025

Norwich – Kristen M. Ellington, 53, of Norwich, passed away Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, after a brief illness.

Kristen was born in Norwich, Jan. 29, 1972, the daughter of the late Francis William Brown Jr. and Cindy (Boldrighine) Brown. She attended St. Patrick's School from kindergarten through eighth grade and graduated from St. Bernard High School in 1990. It was at St. Bernard that she met the love of her life, Russ Ellington. Kristen and Russ were married May 11, 1996. From that day on, they were inseparable - true best friends who built a beautiful life and family together, one filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Anyone who knew Kristen loved her. She had a rare gift for making people feel special, no matter the circumstances. Kristen was the brightest light wherever she went and went out of her way to let others know how deeply she cared for them, not just with her words but with her actions. Her greatest passion in life was her family. To Kristen, "family" included not only her siblings, children, and relatives, but also her friends, her children's friends, and anyone else fortunate enough to become part of her world. She often said, "Friends are the family you meet along the way," and she lived that belief fully.

Above all, Kristen cherished being a mom. Casey and Riley were the center of her life, and she was extremely proud of them. Whatever they liked to do, she supported wholeheartedly - encouraging them, guiding them, and standing beside them in every moment big or small.

Kristen was also a devoted and loving wife. She had a gentle wisdom about her - always knowing the right words to say, the right steps to take, and offering a calm, steady voice no matter the situation. She was the rock of her family and will be deeply missed by everyone who was touched by her kindness and warmth.

In addition to her husband, Russ, she is survived by her son Casey; daughter Riley; brother Bill; sister-in-law Laurie; sister Melissa; brother-in-law Dave; and stepmother Cindy. She is also survived by Alexi, Bella, Mackenzie, Jess, Melina, Max, and Alex -beloved friends of her children who saw Kristen as a second mom; as well as Missy and Melissa who are the friends that became sisters.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the Woyasz & Son Funeral Home, 11 Jerome Road, Uncasville. A Celebration of her Life - one as epic as she was - will be held at a later date.