Beverly Ann Ellis (Bird) or better known as “Shorty”, 70, of Elgin died Saturday, January 26, 2019 at Advocate Sherman Hospital.  Beverly was born in Mounds, IL on June 23, 1948, to JoAnn (Miller) and William Clark.

Beverly was raised in Indianapolis, Ind.  where she attended Tech High School and graduated in 1966.  In 1973 she relocated to Elgin, IL to embark on a new chapter in her life.  On December 24, 1975 she married Mark Anthony Ellis. They were married for 43 years.  

Beverly was known as a friend, a sister, a mother, and a grandmother. She lived her life expecting nothing less than the best, but never forgot that the best thing in life is being surrounded by loved ones.  If you ever had a chance to speak with her, she would talk to you openly and freely. Being blood related didn't matter, Beverly made you feel as if you knew her your whole life.

There was never a dull moment with Beverly. She would often engage in passionate and humorous conversation. She would always be there when you needed her because she knew everyone deserved love and respect. Though her passing was unexpected she will forever live on in the hearts, memories, and thoughts of many. 

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents: William (Bo) and JoAnn (Jo) Clark;  her brothers, Forest Clark (Wolf)  and William Clark Jr. (Billy) aka “Kaliel”

She leaves to celebrate her presence with the Lord; her husband, Mark “Tip Toe” Ellis: her only daughter, Rena’ (Tremain) Johnson: grandchildren; Tramare’, JoVena’, and Janna: Siblings; Gwendolyn Myricks and Ronald “Duke” Clark:  her extended sister,  Anglia “Angie” Clark of Georgia:  nieces;  Michelle of Gwinnett County, Georgia, LaTosha of Indianapolis, Indiana and LaTrease of Illinois:  nephews, Terrill (Erica), DaShawn, DeForest (Vanessa), JeForest (Amy) of Illinois, William Jr. of Texas, and Ronald Jr. of Florida:  2nd generation nieces & nephews; Daja, Deante, Kyron, Jayna, Kaydin, Jaylin, Gavin, Jada, Janae, Paris, Riccardo, Charish, Aaliyah “lele”, Paige and Terrill Jr.  plus a host of family, friends and loved ones.

Visitation and service will be held at O’Connor-Leetz Funeral Home on Friday, February 8 with visitation at 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Bluff City Cemetery immediately following the service. Pastor Andrew Johnson of Destined to Reign Church in South Elgin to officiate.