Gail Ellison

Gail Ellison, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, at the age of 85, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on July 4, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Gail was a true beacon of strength, resilience, and love. Gail was the cherished daughter of Richard and Marie Hatch and grew up alongside her siblings in a close-knit family. She graduated from Redford High School in 1958, where she began to cultivate her love for the arts—a passion that she carried with her throughout her life. Gail possessed an innate talent for painting and jewelry making, which she pursued with enthusiasm and creativity. She was also known for her love of shopping, often finding joy in the little treasures she discovered. Her life was a testament to perseverance and grace. Gail raised her three children, Gregg (Dawn), Scott (Katherine), and Karen (Curt Dame), with immense love and dedication, instilling in them the values of kindness and resilience. As a mother, she was their guiding light, offering unwavering support and wisdom. Her direct wit and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, making her presence both comforting and inspiring. In 1982, Gail found love again and married Michael Ellison in a beautiful ceremony in Plymouth, Michigan. Their marriage of 39 years was a partnership filled with shared adventures and enduring companionship. Michael, her devoted husband, predeceased her, along with her parents, her sister Sharon (Hatch) Durham, and her granddaughter Alexandra Updike. Gail and Michael's love story was one of genuine companionship and mutual respect, which touched the hearts of all who knew them. Gail's legacy continues through her surviving family: her children, her brother Thomas Hatch, her 11 grandchildren—Darcy McBroom, Darren Blach, Tiffany Updike, Tony Updike, Brandon Updike, Stephen Updike, Jordan Updike, Ryan Updike, Amelia Dame, Mitchell Dame—and her great-grandchild, Emma Rose. She reveled in the joy of her grandchildren and great-grandchild, and they were the light of her life. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, and she loved them deeply. The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Butterfly Oasis and Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care during Gail's final days. Their kindness and dedication provided comfort to both Gail and her family during a challenging time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, an organization close to Gail’s heart, to continue the fight against the disease that she battled so bravely. Donations can be made at Parkinson's Foundation Donation Page. Gail's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, resilience, and creativity. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched and in the many cherished memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.