Sheryn Elaine Ellis

Sheryn Elaine Ellis, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and loyal friend, passed away on September 14, 2025, after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. Born on October 17, 1949, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Sheryn spent her early years in Riverview before her family relocated to Pekin, Illinois, where she graduated from Pekin Community High School. She was an outstanding student, actively participating in various activities, including the Melody Maids, and earning the honor of Homecoming Queen in her senior year.

Sheryn graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where she met her beloved husband, Dr. John C. Ellis, on a blind date in 1969. They married on August 19, 1972, beginning a partnership that would flourish over 53 years. Together they raised two wonderful children, Benjamin C. Ellis and Kathryn M. Ellis, emphasizing the value of education and compassion in their upbringing.

Sheryn had a distinguished career in elementary education, teaching in various locations, including North Pekin, Champaign, and Peoria, Illinois; Rochester, New York; and Washington Township in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a certified Title I Reading teacher, she instructed students in grades 2 through 6 and particularly thrived in teaching dedicated math classes. Her calm and nurturing presence was pivotal in her classrooms, with students responding exceptionally well to her low-key authority. Notable experiences included working with children facing challenges, such as those with severe attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. She also enjoyed her role as a long-term substitute when her son Ben was in the fourth grade, becoming his math teacher and earning the affection of her students and peers alike.

Outside of her teaching career, Sheryn's commitment to her family was unwavering. From the moment she embraced motherhood in 1980, she nurtured her children through creative arts, sports, and beloved bedtime stories. Her involvement extended into the school community where she thrived as a room-mother, project manager, and organizational leader, co-leading successful fundraisers that raised impressive amounts in support of school activities.

Spending quality time with her family was the heartbeat of Sheryn's life, creating warm and lasting memories through gatherings, meals, and engaging conversations. She possessed a unique ability to listen and connect with those around her, which would result in lifelong friendships with the children who frequented their home. She also had a great sense of humor and stated that John's humor was a significant factor in her attraction to him. Humor and teasing was a daily occurrence that constantly enhanced their bond.

Sheryn was described by all who knew her as kind, intelligent, and positive—a loyal friend whose sweet demeanor was one of her most defining characteristics, despite her mild irritation at the label. She was a fabulous cook, frequently delighting her family and friends with delicious meals crafted from new recipes, and she upheld a beautifully organized home with a love for gardening, becoming a Master Gardener throughout the years.

Her active lifestyle included attending cultural events such as Dance Kaleidoscope, the Indiana Repertory Theater, and local sports teams. She also engaged in activities like Jazzercise, Tae Kwon Do, and sailing.

Sheryn’s family extends their profound thanks to the members of the Washington Township Fire Department, as well as the physicians and staff at Ascension St. Vincent Emergency Department, IU Health Schwarz Cancer Center, and IU Health North and Methodist Hospitals for their compassionate care and support throughout her time of need.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. John C. Ellis, her children, Benjamin and Kathryn, her son Ben’s wife Jenna (Thomlinson) Ellis, her grandchildren Laine V. Ellis and Amara R. Ellis, Ben's former spouse Sarah Knapp (Ellis), her sister Jamie L. Endicott-Kensinger, and her niece Elizabeth A. Kensinger. Additionally, she is lovingly remembered by her aunt Shirley Alessi.

Sheryn was preceded in death by her father, Charles E. Endicott, her mother, Donna (Seitz) Endicott, and her brother, C. Edward Endicott.

A graveside service will be held on September 22, 2025, at Washington Park North Cemetery. A memorial service will be held on October 17, 2025, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, at 1:00pm in the Robinson Chapel, followed by a celebration of life.