Timothy D Ellis' Obituary
Timothy Darnell Ellis, was born on February 28, 1958, in Lansing, Michigan, to the late
Rev. Arzo and Easeline Ellis . On August 8, 2025, at the age of 67, the Lord gently
called him home to glory in Jackson, Michigan.
Timothy graduated from Everett High School in 1975 and married his love, Bernadette in 1983.
His life is a testimony of God’s redeeming power. Raised in a Christian home, he walked his own path
for a time, but God never let him go. When the moment came, at the age of 43, Bro. Tim surrendered
his life fully to Christ, and the change was undeniable. From that day forward, he lived as a shining
witness of God’s mercy, grace, and faithfulness.
In 2004, God restored the bond between him and Bernadette, making their reunion
a witness to both lasting love and His unwavering grace.
Timothy’s favorite scripture was Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. As a faithful servant in the Church of God,
he applied this daily. His service to the Lord was evident in every role he fulfilled, whether as
Superintendent over the children’s ministry, Devotion Leader, Chaplain of the Jackson County Jail, or
ministering to those behind prison walls through his dedicated prison ministry.
His life was a living testimony of God’s grace and redemption. His autobiography, “No Stone
Unturned”, was adapted into a dramatization featured on the Unshackled radio program, touching
countless lives with a message of hope and transformation.
Professionally, he was a hardworking entrepreneur, owning and operating his own lawn care business.
Yet his greatest work was not in the fields he mowed, but in the seeds of faith, encouragement, and love
he planted in the hearts of others.
Timothy loved his family deeply. He was a devoted husband to his loving wife, Bernadette Ellis, and a
proud father to his children: Quarterrio Ausborn, Timia Mckinstry, Takesha Ellis, Darnell (Ashley)
Mckinstry, and Timothy Darnell Ellis II. He was blessed with 19 grandchildren and 5 great-
grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. His legacy also lives on through a host of nieces,
nephews, extended family, friends & his spiritual mother BettyTucker who cherished him. He was
preceded in death by six brothers and four sisters.
Brother Tim’s warm smile and kindness reflected the love of Christ. Though deeply missed, we rejoice
knowing he now rests with the Lord, hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” His life calls us
to patience, humility, and boundless love.
What’s your fondest memory of Timothy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Timothy?
Share a story where Timothy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Timothy you’ll never forget.
How did Timothy make you smile?
