Roberta Ellison

Roberta S. Ellison was born on April 26, 1934, in Independence, Missouri, the daughter of Evelyn and William Robert Shanahan. She met her future husband, Richard Ellison, during a square dance at the University of Missouri. They married in 1956 and recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary-a partnership defined by love, mutual respect, and shared purpose. She was, and always will be, the love of his life.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dick; her children, Richard (Mary Beth) and Julie (Brian Tindall); her grandchildren, Emily (Ryan Smith), Stephen (Gabrielle), Caitlin (Aaron Zelasko), Michael, Matthew (Erica), and Melissa (Rich Downs); and her great-grandchildren, Lyla, Milo, Evelyn, and Noah. She is also survived by her brothers, Terrence ("Joe") Shanahan and Robert Shanahan, and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her life.

A dedicated teacher, Roberta spent her career in elementary and special education, spending the majority of her career and retiring from Tallmadge City Schools. Her compassion and commitment left a lasting impact-not only in the classroom but in her own family. Two generations have followed her into teaching, inspired by her example and values.

She was an avid reader and a lifelong learner, someone who cherished stories, ideas, and quiet moments of reflection. Her love of books and knowledge was woven into the fabric of her home and the lives of those around her.

Roberta passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 19, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength-gifts that will continue to guide and inspire the family who loved her deeply.

She will be missed beyond words and lovingly remembered always.