Roberta Jean Ellison

It is with great sadness that the family of Roberta Jean Ellison announces her passing on December 2, 2018, at the age of 89.

Born on April 24, 1929 in Lee County, Virginia, Roberta spent her childhood years in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. The youngest of four children, Roberta was the baby of the family and always treasured as such. From her mother she inherited her love of flowers and nature. She was a lifelong gardener, and especially enjoyed cardinals and hummingbirds.

Roberta cherished Christian fellowship at Castleton Christian Church where she made many precious memories and friendships, including Linda and Jacquie. She served a variety of volunteer roles at the church. Roberta had a soft spot in her heart for adult and pediatric cancer patients. She crocheted and contributed sewn pillows to pediatric hospitals and cancer units throughout Indianapolis for several years. Roberta was never without a plant, a project, or a book from her local library.

Roberta was a devoted and loving sister, mother, and grandmother. Roberta is preceded in death by her parents John Floyd and Verla Smelser, her siblings Oscar, Mattie Ruth, and Betsy, her son Daniel, and her nephews John Adams and John Hilas. She leaves behind her children: Ginnie Resides and partner Glen of Carmel, Shirley and Phil Hutchison of Carmel, David Ellison of Indianapolis, and Joyce Ellison of Dayton; grandchildren Amanda Hutchison, Brian and Kelsey Hutchison, Christine Hutchison, Erica Kolmin, and Bobby Roalef. She leaves a cherished great-granddaughter, Noelle Kolmin.

She will be sadly missed by her extended family in Tennessee, including Joan and General Webb, Sarah and Teresa Adams, Kim and Nathan Webb France, and many nieces and nephews such as Steve, Sally, Pat, and Susan. She was loved and will be fondly remembered by many friends and relatives around the country.

Roberta walked with the Lord.

At her request, a Celebration of Life will be held at Castleton Christian Church, 7214 Hague Road, Indianapolis, on Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 11:30 am. Her ashes will be interred among her departed family in Harrogate Cemetery in the spring. In the shadows of the mountains and old oak trees teeming with birds, Roberta will be home.

The family of Roberta Ellison would like to thank the ICU and Community Hospital North staff for their attentiveness and compassion during her final hours. Additionally, the family would like to express our appreciation to Dr. Narang.

Bussell Family Funerals, Carmel-Westfield, is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roberta Jean Ellison, please visit our floral store.