Darleen Lorraine Ellis

Darleen was born on September 8, 1936, in Jackson County, Missouri, to Louise and James Case. She was the youngest of four children and is survived by her older sister, Dolores Smith. Darleen passed away in Knoxville, Tennessee on January 27, 2025.

In 1957, she married Russ Ellis, and they shared 60 years of life together before his passing in 2017. After his death, Darleen deeply missed him and held his memory close to her heart. After their marriage, they lived in Missouri and had two sons. In 1963, they moved to California, living first in San Pedro and then Anaheim before moving to Portland, Oregon. Later, they moved to Columbus, Ohio, where they had their daughter, before moving back to Anaheim, California, where they lived for many years.

Darleen worked in the fabric industry in Los Angeles for most of her adult life. Upon retirement, she and Russ decided to move to Hemet, California, where they enjoyed their days living on the lake and golf course.

Her greatest joy in life was her family, which included not only her three children but also her 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In the past year, she relocated to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to be closer to two of her children. Darleen is survived by her sons, Russ Ellis Jr. and Tim Ellis (Becky), and her daughter, D’Leen Hollis (Dave).

Darleen’s interment will be Monday March 17, 2025 at 11:00 am at Riverside National Cemetery 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside Ca 93518.

Mott-McKamey Funeral Home and Cremations is assisting the Ellis family.