Mitchell Lynn "Krook Keez" Ellerbe

Mitchell Lynn Ellerbe, affectionately known as "Krook Keez," age 39, of Hartford, Connecticut, born on February 8, 1986, passed away on December 25, 2025.
Mitchell was born to Tangie R. McDougald and was raised in Hartford, surrounded by love, family, and community. He was committed to being the best father he could be to his son, Mi'Keez Omari Johnson-Ellerbe, and he shared a close and meaningful bond with Nalayah Johnson.
He is survived by his mother, Tangie R. McDougald, and her husband, Kyle; his maternal siblings, Rasheen Merritt and Tay'Sha Davis, with whom he shared a deep and enduring connection; and his step-siblings, Kyle Jr. and Kyrell McDougald.
Mitchell also shared a special and cherished relationship with Tracy Merritt, affectionately known as"Pop Dukes," a man he loved and respected deeply. Mitch proudly embraced his place as a big brother within that family circle. He also maintained a meaningful and lasting bond with the Davis family, who remained an important part of his life and journey.
Mitchell is survived by his maternal grandmother, Sandra L. Richardson, his maternal grandfather, Curtis Mack, and his paternal grandmother, Goldie Ellerbe. He was further blessed by the presence and love of Oscar Gibbs, who served as a steady and guiding presence throughout his life and held a special place in his heart.
He is survived by his paternal siblings Shonda Schwalbe, her husband Sean of North Carolina, and Lynelle, Sachell, Azure, Ariyah, and Amir Ellerbe of Connecticut, as well as his fiancée, Juanita Evans, with whom he shared love, hope, and plans for the future.
Mitchell is cherished by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends. He shared a special brotherhood with Dominique Rose, Joseph Guzman, Christopher Jones, and Martin Bonner.
Mitchell will be remembered for being a musical genius. His distinctive dialect and lyrical flow, set him apart from other local artists. He had a keen eye for fashion, a deep devotion to his family, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. Meticulous by nature, Mitchell upheld a personal sense of order in everything he did, and you always knew where you stood with him. He worked as a medical biller with Community Matters, where he took great pride in his role and the relationships he built. A forward thinker ahead of his time, Mitchell carried vision, intention, and purpose in all that he pursued.
Mitchell's life will continue to be honored through the love he gave, the music he shared, and the legacy he leaves behind.