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Death in our diocesan family: Genevieve Diane Osborne Ellis

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With sadness we share the news of the death of Genevieve Diane Osborne Ellis, 88, on April 19, 2018 in Chapel Hill, NC. She was the mother of the Rev. Elaine Ellis Thomas, Rector of All Saints Episcopal Parish in Hoboken.

Diane was born on November 26, 1929, in Walnut Ridge, AR, the daughter of Elijah Allen Osborne and Mary Hazel Roberts Osborne.

Married in 1951 to Leland Caswell Ellis of Sherman, TX, together they had six children. After retiring in Isle of Palms, SC, they joined the Peace Corps, serving in Antigua. They also lived in India and China before settling in at their Wild Dunes home until Leland’s death in 1997.

A gifted artist and teacher, Diane volunteered at her church, at literacy programs, and at her home at Carol Woods Retirement Community in Chapel Hill, NC, but most enjoyed walking along the beach and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her six children, nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two siblings. She was predeceased by one grandson.

Burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, 3491 Pleasant Grove Church Road, Morrisville, NC 27560; or Partners 4 New Hope, P.O. Box 11555, Charlotte, NC 28220 (to support New Hope Hospital in Plaine du Nord, Haiti).

Condolences may be sent to the Rev. Elaine Ellis Thomas care of All Saints Episcopal Parish, 707 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030.

Lord, for your faithful people life is changed, not ended. When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death we gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven. Lord, grant eternal rest, forever in the radiance of your light. Amen.