Sheila Stone Ellis, 93, of Friday Harbor, Washington, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 29, 1931, in Annapolis, Maryland, to Freda E. Stone (Sheff) and Russell J. Stone, Sheila's life was one of adventure, devotion, boundless love, and faith in God.
A true child of the 1930’s Sheila lived in many places throughout her life. She began her education in Virginia, but her family’s frequent moves shaped her childhood and early years. Sheila finished her elementary school years in Washington D.C., Panama Canal Zone (Balboa), and Wildwood, New Jersey, before returning to Annapolis where she graduated from high school in 1949.
In 1948, Sheila met the love of her life, Alfred (Al) Benedict Ellis, on her birthday. Al, a Navy pilot and graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1943, swept Sheila off her feet. They married on April 2, 1949, in the Navy Chapel in Dahlgren, Virginia. Their love story continued to blossom as they moved across the country, raising their five children: Susan Michele Ellis (born January 5, 1951, in Fredericksburg, Virginia), Cynthia Dawn Ellis (born March 24, 1952, in Pensacola, Florida), David Arno Ellis (born October 31, 1953, in Chincoteague, Virginia), Robin Katherine Ellis (born September 5, 1958, in Southern California), and Michele Kaye Ellis (born May 10, 1962, in Southern California).
Sheila’s unwavering commitment as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was at the heart of her life. The family’s journey took them to many places as Al's naval career progressed, but in 1993, Sheila and Al made Friday Harbor, Washington, their home, so they could be closer to their loved ones.
Known as everyone’s #1 fan, Sheila had a true passion for sports. Whether it was cheering on her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, or friends, her enthusiasm and energy were unmatched. Her favorite pastime was watching football on TV , especially the Seahawks and Navy. Her spirit lit up every room, and her home was always open to all—welcoming each person as though they were part of the family. She was known as Grandma to most of the island.
Sheila was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Al, and their two oldest daughters, Susan Ayotte and Cynthia Johnson. She was also predeceased by her first grandchild, Eli Stephenson. Sheila leaves behind her sister Lela, son David Ellis, daughters Robin Garcia and Michele Melborne, her 12 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and three great, great grandchildren.
Sheila will be remembered as a remarkable woman who lived with grace, joy, and an immeasurable amount of love. She now rests in the arms of God, reunited with those she lost, but her memory and her love will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.
To bookmark Sheila’s memorial site: www.evanschapel.com/obituary.sheila-ellis.