A Life Remembered

Victoria Ellison

August 22, 1963 – October 10, 2026

Victoria Ellison was born on August 22, 1963, to Edward J. Ellison and Imelda Ellison (née Johnson). She was preceded in death by her parents and her granddaughter, Heaven Williams. Victoria departed this life on October 10, 2026.

Affectionately known as Vicky to family and friends, she grew up in Shaker Heights, Ohio, and graduated from Shaker Heights High School. She continued her education at Cuyahoga Community College, where she wrote her first novel, Angels Only Stand Where Cherubim Take Flight. A novelist and poet, Vicky also contributed writing to the Call & Post newspaper. Throughout her life, she held various positions, including home health aide, after-school tutor, and receptionist at Severance Towers. She also worked at Playhouse Square and with Positive Education Program (PEP).

A woman of many talents and interests, Vicky enjoyed spending time with family and friends, painting, drawing, writing, listening to music, and watching her favorite television programs. She also enjoyed belly dancing and attending the Cleveland National Air Show with family over the years. Vicky loved cooking and often prepared holiday meals to share with family and fellow tenants, extending kindness and a sense of community to those around her. Vicky also enjoyed the companionship of her pet birds, especially Oliver, whom she talked to as though he were a person. She delighted in his antics and even played music for him because he enjoyed listening to it. She possessed a wealth of knowledge about biblical and world history and enjoyed sharing what she had learned with others.

Vicky valued the relationships she developed throughout her life. Among them was her lifelong friendship with Tamela Thornton, a childhood friend from their neighborhood in Shaker Heights. Though Tamela eventually relocated to Texas, the two remained in contact throughout the years. Their enduring friendship was a special connection that spanned decades. Reflecting on Vicky’s passing, Tamela shared, “She is my oldest friend, and I will miss her dearly.”

Vicky’s faith in God was an important part of her life. She spoke of the Lord with conviction and believed that professing faith should be reflected in the way we treat others. Her own compassion and generosity demonstrated the importance she placed on putting faith into action.

Vicky had a heart for individuals facing mental health challenges and addiction. She was deeply troubled by the stigma and discrimination often directed toward them and believed everyone deserved to be seen, heard, respected, and treated with dignity and kindness. Through her work with Positive Education Program (PEP), she drew upon her own experiences to encourage and advocate for others facing similar challenges. She also put her belief in the power of education into practice by volunteering at a local mental health agency, where she taught adults how to read. Vicky participated in Magnolia Clubhouse in Cleveland, where she attended events and lent a helping hand with activities and gatherings.

Although her life was not without challenges, Vicky demonstrated courage, resilience, and perseverance. She faced adversity with determination, continually striving for greater independence, personal growth, and the ability to advocate for herself. Her journey reflected the strength and courage it takes to keep moving forward, even when the path is difficult.

Vicky will be remembered for her creativity, intelligence, compassion, and strength. Though she will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her, we take comfort in knowing that her struggles are over and she is now at peace.

Vicky leaves to cherish her memory her three sons, Darnell C. Ellison, Demetrius G. Ellison (companion, LaTonya Williams), and Seth Overton (wife, Deja) of Nashville, Tennessee; five surviving grandchildren, Demetrius Williams, Dionna Ellison, Kyrie Overton, Aaliyah Overton, and Aiden Overton; her brother, Bruce Ellison; her sister, June Adams; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.