Michelle Ellis

Michelle Ellis, 68, of Canton, Ohio, passed away June 28, 2025, surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Michelle was born the youngest of 12, to the late Walter F. and Juanita (Ford) Ellis in Canton, Ohio on September 4, 1956. She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings Myrtle Simms, Walter Ellis Jr., Gloria Patterson, Theresa Gracia, and Greg Ellis; Grandson Darius Peterson; and Great- Grandson Jasai Ellis.

Michelle, known to many as just Shell, was a 1974 graduate of Canton South High School and retired from Giant Eagle in 2021 after nearly 30 years of employment. During her time there she worked at the Raff Road, Massillon, and Barberton locations where she built lasting friendships with her co-workers and customers.

Over the years Michelle has opened her home to loved ones in need, without question. She was a dear Mother, Grandma, Maw Maw, GG, Aunt, Sister and Friend to many. Always a fun and caring person. There were not many rooms she entered and left without making you laugh.

Michelle had a love for Jehovah and found great joy in her regular Bible study and attending meetings at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed sitting on her sofa, in her favorite spot, rubbing her feet, watching Lifetime movies and reality television shows. In her younger years she was known for hosting family & friends at her Labor Day Weekend cookouts. She was always eager to prepare some of her famous dishes whenever she got the opportunity. Those dishes included macaroni & cheese with broccoli, lasagna, potato salad, cornbread dressing, and her flavorful barbeque sauce.

She is survived by her loving daughters Chavriel Ellis and Karen (Edward) Chavers – Daniels; Bonus daughters Stephanie and Michelle Williams; Grandchildren Shardae Ellis, Alana Peterson, Marquis, Raejon, & Sable Williams, Denisha Pigford, and Ma’ry & Eyana Daniels; Great- Grandchildren Marquis Garner Jr., Isaiah Sutton, Mylah & Ahlayna Peterson; Siblings Geneva (John) Lewis, Ella Scott, Deborah Ellis, Benita Birl, Doris (Roger) Taylor all of Canton, OH and Donald Ellis of Daytona, FL. and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, July 8th at Paquelet Funeral Home 1100 Wales Rd. Massillon, OH 44714. Visitation will be 10am – 12pm with services immediately after.

To view the service virtually, please click here.