Obituary of Michael Ellis
Michael Ellis—affectionately known as Mike or Mwangi to his family and friends—was the third of seven children, born on Thursday, October 12, 1961, to Deacon Claudie Ellis, Sr., and Missionary Annie Bell Ellis. From an early age, Michael’s life was marked by faith, service, and a quiet strength that would define his journey. As a teenager, he was deeply involved in youth ministry at the Cliffwood Community Church of Christ in Cliffwood, New Jersey, under the leadership of the late Bishop James H. Clark. Whether singing in the youth choir or serving as a youth usher, Michael exemplified dedication, humility, and a genuine love for his church community.
Michael attended Monmouth Regional High School, where he excelled academically and demonstrated exceptional practical ability. His commitment to learning and self-discipline laid a firm foundation for a life built on integrity, perseverance, and excellence. His remarkable skill with his hands became one of his defining traits, and he carried this gift with him throughout his life.
In 2001, Michael married the love of his life, Elizabeth Wanjiru Kagwimi-Ellis, forming a union grounded in faith, loyalty, and enduring affection. Their marriage was a true partnership—a covenant of love that withstood every trial and celebrated every joy. Through their shared devotion, they embodied the essence of unwavering commitment.
A master craftsman, Michael worked in carpentry and construction with distinction. His professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail earned him deep respect among his colleagues and clients. To Michael, work was more than a livelihood—it was an expression of creativity, pride, and service.
In 2008, Michael faced one of life’s greatest challenges when he suffered a debilitating stroke. Yet even in adversity, his spirit remained unbroken. With courage and grace, he embraced each day as a gift. His beloved wife Elizabeth stood faithfully beside him, caring for him with unwavering devotion. Together, they lived out their marriage vows in their truest form—for better or for worse, in sickness and in health.
By God’s grace, Michael was blessed with seventeen more years of life after his stroke. Though partially paralyzed, he refused to yield to limitation. He regained his driver’s license, tended his beloved lawn and garden, and continued to craft furniture for his home and loved ones. His resilience was a testament to the power of faith, determination, and love.
Michael Ellis, aged 63, transitioned peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at his home in Middlesex, New Jersey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Deacon Claudie Ellis, Sr. and Missionary Annie Bell Ellis, and by his brothers Cleveland Lennon Ellis and Claudie Alfonzo Ellis.
He leaves behind his devoted wife Elizabeth Wanjiru Kagwimi-Ellis; his cherished daughter Sherylle Ellis-Marte; his beloved grandchildren Gabriel, Dayana, Saint, and Amun-Ra Jaxon; his sisters Brenda Nicholson (John), Gwen Lawrence (John), Angela Ellis, and Jennifer Ellis-Jackson; his stepmother Iwilla Ellis; his stepsister Dean; his aunt Zenobia Harris; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of dear friends who will miss him profoundly.
Michael’s life was one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and enduring love. His hands built more than furniture—they built a legacy of integrity, perseverance, and care that will live on in every life he touched.
“The measure of a life is not in its length, but in its depth, its love, and its service to others.” — Coretta Scott King
A visitation will be held in the South Plainfield Funeral home, 2456 Plainfield Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 4 PM to 7 PM.
Funeral Services will take place in the funeral home on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 10 AM. Family and friends are invited to gather in the funeral home prior to the services, beginning at 9:30 AM.
Burial will take place at Bound Brook Cemetery, 500 Mountain Avenue, Bound Brook, NJ, following the funeral services.