Maureen M. Ellis

Maureen M. Ellis, 61, of Simsbury died peacefully while surrounded by loving family in Saint Francis Hospital on Sunday, September 27. Born in New Haven on March 6, 1948 to the late Thomas J. McSherry , Sr. and the late Lucille Doherty McSherry. Maureen was one of six children. She leaves behind her husband, Robert Ellis, of Simsbury, daughter Kathleen Ellis, of Simsbury, and son Michael Ellis, of Quincy, MA. She is predeceased by a sister, Kathleen McSherry, and a brother, Thomas McSherry, Jr. and is survived by sister Eileen Davis of Madison, sister Geraldine McSherry of N. Branford, and brother Joseph McSherry of Hamden. A graduate of St. Francis School of Nursing in 1969, Maureen worked her entire career in the field of health care, starting as an ICU nurse. After raising her two children, Maureen returned to nursing at McLean Home in Simsbury. Her career culminated with years spent as Director of Nursing, first at McLean and then at Heritage Health Center in Agawam, MA. After retiring, Maureen continued dedicating her life to caring for others by volunteering at McLean Home and The Women's Auxiliary, serving that organization in many positions, including as its president. Maureen loved Disney World and Christmas carols with the passion of a child. She cooked like a chef, hosted parties like a restaurateur, and tended her gardens like a florist. She spoiled her Cairn Terriers rotten and defended her beloved hummingbirds and bird feeders on more than one occasion by running outside and throwing pots and pans at a bear that had the gall to climb upon her deck. All who knew her, from her closest family, to her friends and colleagues, to her daily chatting circle on the cul-de-sac, will always remember her for having the biggest of hearts, the warmest of souls, and the most joyful and infectious of laughs. The family will hold a memorial celebration of her life at Hop Meadow Country Club, 85 Fire Town Road, Simsbury, CT from 11 AM to 3 PM on Saturday, October 3. All Maureen's friends and family are invited to visit at any point during these hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the newly-established Maureen M. Ellis Endowment Fund for Nursing Education at McLean Home. Checks should be made payable to The McLean Foundation, 75 Great Pond Rd., Simsbury, CT 06070. Molloy Funeral Home, West Hartford has care of arrangements.

Maureen M. Ellis

March 6, 1948 - September 27, 2009