Obituary of Thomas James Ellison

Thomas Ellison was born in Monroe, Michigan on December 18, 1953. He was born from the union of James Smith and Ellen Ellison. Thomas obtained his education from Monroe High School. He was employed at Ford Motor Company for many years. He also had worked as a janitor at Crossroads Club House for a period of time.

Thomas was well-known for his kindness and generosity.   He often put the needs of others ahead of his own, even choosing to go without himself many times.  Thomas always enjoyed the time that he spent with his family.  He was an excellent listener always lending an ear and willing to give sound words of wisdom to keep those around him on the right track. Affectionately referred to by his family as “Uncle Bosco”, Thomas was a free spirit who truly loved his kin.

Thomas was a sports fanatic and received great delight watching events on television. He didn’t care who was playing and was willing to root for any team.   However, cheering on the University of Michigan Wolverines was by far his favorite. He also enjoyed watching all types of Westerns.

Thomas liked to try his luck with scratch-off lottery tickets. As he scratched off each ticket, he relished in the anticipation to see if he was a winner.  Even though he spent countless hours playing spades or poker with a group of friends, Thomas often joked that his best friend Dennis was actually his only friend.

Thomas Ellison, age 69, of Monroe, passed away at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital at 10:51am on Saturday; January 7, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; four brothers: Robert Ellison, Ronald Overstreet, Reverend Alfred Overstreet, and Charles Smith; one sister: Pauline Smith; one daughter: Krista Onnalee Lee-Shadwick; one granddaughter: Sylvasha Lee.

To cherish his memory, he leaves a daughter: Arlinda Lee; one sister: Carol Smith; five brothers: Isac Smith, David Smith, Ronell Smith, Richard Hoskins, and Lawrence Smith; six grandchildren: Meisha Lee, Keyonna McCray, Artyonna McCray, Christina Lee-Oliver, Arthur McCray, Jr., Brianna Lee-McCray and four great grandchildren: Liem Adkins, Luvinie Franklin Jr., Beau McCray, and Sophia Barton.

Friends may gather on Tuesday; January 17, 2023, from 12:00pm until 2:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Homegoing Celebration will take place at 2:00pm, also at Merkle’s.  Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family to assist with funeral arrangements.   Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.