Gail Ellison

It is with deep sorrow, yet profound gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the passing of Gail Ellison, who left this world on April 6, 2026, at the age of 85, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Gail passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family and the gentle care of her hospice team. Gail was born on July 4, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, to Richard and Marie Hatch. From the very beginning, her life was infused with the vibrant energy of her birth city and the spirit of independence that her birthday so perfectly symbolizes. Although her parents divorced when she was just ten years old, Gail's resilience and strength shone through as she navigated life's challenges with grace and determination. A proud graduate of Redford High School in the class of 1958, Gail cherished the friendships she made there, many of which remained dear to her throughout her life. She was a woman of many talents, with a passion for painting, jewelry making, and the joy of shopping, which she often referred to as her "creative adventures." Her artwork and handmade jewelry pieces were treasured gifts for family and friends, each piece a testament to her creative spirit and generous heart. Gail's life was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family. She raised her three children, Gregg (Dawn), Scott (Katherine), and Karen (Curt Dame), with strength, humor, and unconditional love. Her direct wit was well-known and appreciated by those lucky enough to know her, always delivered with a twinkle in her eye and a warmth that left a lasting impression. In 1982, Gail found love a second time and married Michael Ellison in Plymouth, Michigan. Their 39-year marriage was a testament to their shared devotion and partnership. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories until Michael's passing. Gail was predeceased by her beloved husband Michael, her parents Marie and Richard, her sister Sharon (Hatch) Durham, and her granddaughter Alexandra Updike. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience in her surviving family: her children, her brother Thomas Hatch, her 11 grandchildren, and her precious great-grandchild, Emma Rose. Her grandchildren—Darcy McBroom, Darren Blach, Tiffany Updike, Tony Updike, Brandon Updike, Stephen Updike, Jordan Updike, Ryan Updike, Amelia Dame, and Mitchell Dame—were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments and joys. Gail's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate caregivers at Butterfly Oasis and Gentiva Hospice, whose kindness and support provided comfort during her final days. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Gail's memory to the Parkinson's Foundation, an organization close to her heart, at Parkinson's Foundation Donation Page. As we remember Gail, we celebrate a life rich in love, creativity, and the enduring strength of spirit. She touched the hearts of many and leaves behind a tapestry of memories that will be cherished forever. Her legacy lives on in the beauty she created and the love she gave so freely. May her soul find peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.