Ellis, Nicole Shawnte "Nikki" 24, beloved daughter of Maurice "Bo" and Cynthia Ellis, loving sister of Christina, cherished granddaughter to Eugenia Morris, fond niece to a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Services Wednesday, July 9th. Wake at 6 p.m. Mass at 7 p.m. at St. Felicitas Church, 1526 E. 84th St. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. Visitation Tuesday, 4 to 10 p.m. at A.A. Rayner & Sons Funeral Home, 318 E. 71st St. Information, 773-846-6133.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mom
August 4, 2004
Nikki,
This will be the last entry before the book closes, but my heart will be always open for all the love that I have for you. That will never close or fade away.
I really miss you alot and so does Dad. He cried again the other day at the breakfast table. I guess he misses you so much and he is not sure how to express it. He misses you when we have breakfast and dinner together, so does Christina and me. It's just not the same without you.
Christina finally got her own e-mail address. I will tell her to e-mail you.
Good-bye for now.
P.S. Tell God, my father and your granny that I said hello. We will all see you soon.
Love Dad, Mom and Christina
Cynthia Ellis
August 2, 2004
Nicole,
Mom and Dad really miss you very much. Dad and I take turns crying on each other's shoulder. Sometimes we cry together, but we try not to do that because one of us has to be strong for Christina. I know you have been visiting Christina because she told me. She really misses you too.
It has been a year since your transition to a better life. I understand that God wanted you back, but tell him that your parents still hurt everyday for your lost. Your cousins and grandmother try not to mention you as much because they start crying. They all just go around with your pictures around their necks and on their cell phones, just like you are still here.
I will probably put another entry into this book before it closes.
I will always have you close to my heart.
Love you always!
Mom
Iris Aikins-Afful
August 1, 2004
Dear Colie-cole,
Hey lady!! I'm glad that your guest book is still open. I thought about you on the 2nd of July b/c that is the day we lost you. It's the same day 2 years ago that I lost my dad. I know you two will like each other, you both being scorpios and all. You were such a wonderful, warm, friendly and inviting person. From the first time I met you, you made me feel as though we had known each other for years. Thank you sooo much!! You were such a wonderful example of the way people should act. I admired the way you didn't hold a grudge, your confidence and your virtues. I only wish I had told you that while you were still here. I know you are well taken care of. I started to send an email to you, hoping that it would go through. I sure do miss emailing good ol' FiveEleven! I'll mourn you 'til I join you!!
Kyeshia Brakes
December 3, 2003
Ms. Nikki,
Around this time we'd be discussing how we both would be turning 25 within exactly a week apart from one another and trying to figure out a way to celebrate together. All day Sunday I could do nothing but think about you and how much I miss hearing your voice and most of all that laugh that was so unique. Sometimes it's like you're sitting right next to me...I can hear your voice so vividly.
I know that you're being taken care of up in Heaven and hope that you are keeping an eye on us down here.
Miss you dearly!!!
Your friend,
Kyeshia
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
FAYE PROCTOR
November 10, 2003
JUST THOUGHT ABOUT YOU THIS MORNING I MISS TALKING TO YOU, I MISS YOU VERY MUCH....GOD FAYE
Carla Lamarre-LeDane
August 9, 2003
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Ellis & Christina,
Nikki was one of my daughter Angel's dearest friends. They talked by "e-mail" often. We just heard today and Angel and I both are devastated. Nikki just e-mailed Angel about visiting her here in Florida where Angel is in Law School. What a smile she had. It was an honor to me that she and Angel were such friends. I keep seeing her smiling down. She will be sorely missed.
Tiffany Taylor
July 29, 2003
To the Ellis Family,
My deepest sympathy to you all. Nikki will definitely be missed. She was a wonderful person all around. Nikki was a friend with a personality that can't be replaced by anyone. I enjoyed our college years together which consisted of fun on top of fun. Among others, Nikki helped me to cope with the stress of college. I am grateful to have been a part of her life. So, Thank you both so very much for Nikki, because without you, we would have never met. My heart and prayers are with you.
Leslie Buckner
July 28, 2003
To the Ellis Family:
I wanted to offer my sincerest condolences at the loss of a daughter, sister, cousin, neice, and friend. Nikki in so many ways was my sister as we saw so many things through the same lens on life. I will truly miss her, her smile, her laugh, and her advice. I know that she truly touched everyone here through her friendly personality. I will continue to pray that God will touch and heal all of you and be with both her family and friends as we struggle to accept that Nikki is now watching over us! May God Bless and Keep you always. Know that I am here whenever you need me and that I will continue to keep in touch! Leslie
Rev. Stephen Jones
July 23, 2003
I will always remember the summer of 1999, for it was during the 4th of July weekend I met Nikki. I remember her to be a darling person. She will always be considered one of the dearest and sweetest people I ever met. She had gone from labor to reward and she will be greatly missed. I truly pray that God would grant the family peace and they go thru this trying time. Nikki you were loved by so many and you touched so many lives...Kalonji and I will always carry the memories with us...
See you soon!!!
Michelle Hicklen
July 22, 2003
Philippians 1:21
"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."
Take comfort in your time of sorrow to know that as long as Nikki lived for Christ and you do the same you shall see her WHOLE again. Begin to bless God for allowing her to be in your life no matter how short the time was. Though you may not understand why this was allowed to happen give God total praise for another chance that you have been given so that you can meet again on that wonderful day. Yes it is hard right now and you may not feel like it, but things will get better. I know this for I lost my sister when I was 12 so be encouraged and know that God is still worthy to be praised and if you ask him one day he will reveal unto you why it all happened. Be blessed and my family shall continue to pray for yours.
Valerie Hartsfield Grace
July 17, 2003
Dear Ellis Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved Nikki. I am intimately familiar with the pain of losing a child and a sibling as I lost my own 4 year-old daughter and 24 year-old sister almost a decade ago. I know from that experience that God will comfort and heal. Hold on to your faith and He will see you through.
Susie Biel-Theurich
July 15, 2003
Dear Ellis Family,
Words cannot express the loss of your beautiful angel. I had the honor of calling Nikki a friend throughout high school. She spoke many times of her loving family, at a time when most teens relate more to friends; she held her family close and dear. She would often talk of her Father with such pride, her Mother with such love and her sister with such affection. Your wonderful daughter/sister taught me that being myself was being the best. She was the one friend that accepted me for me. Her smile still burns deep in my memory and I feel such comfort knowing that God has this incredible angel looking over us. May God bless you and keep you near.
Kathryn Statz
July 14, 2003
Bo, Candy and Christina:
I will never forget working with Nicole or the fun of seeing your family during graduation in December, 2000, celebrating for her and with her. I hope you will find comfort in this registry and the many shades of memory and prayer offered by all whose lives were touched by Nicole.
Garry and Donna Howard
July 14, 2003
Our hearts and prayers go out to Bo and his family.
Jelissa Walker
July 13, 2003
Needless to say, it's been hard taking the news of Nikki's passing. To find out that someone with whom you've shared long talks (at good ol' Humphrey Hall :o) and laughs is gone is truly saddening, and I know I'm not the only one who is experiencing grief. To the Ellis family and her closest friends, my sincere condolences go out to you all. As duty has called I've been unable to keep in touch with her, and I regret that - but I'm glad to have known Nikki and will remember and cherish her always.
Katricia Purnell
July 12, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Nicole Ellis. I never had the opportunity to meet her face to face, but I considered her a very good friend. I remember our last phone conversation and things seemed to be going well for her. When I got the news that she had passed it felt as if the world stood still for a moment and I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I hoped it wasn't true, but it turned out to be and I was deeply saddened by the news. I will always remember Nicole as a very caring person with a beautiful smile and a truly special person who touched the lives of many people. I am honored that she crossed my path. God Bless.
Michael Jernigan Sr.
July 12, 2003
God Bless You & And Your Family On This Lost. The Family Will Always Be In Our Prayers. From The Jernigan Family
Tony Adam
July 11, 2003
Bo, Cindy and Christina I was saddened to hear about Nicole. I remember meeting her when I was Christina's school bus driver in Milwaukee. I always admired her for being there for Christina and both of you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. God bless.
Oluoma Nnamaka
July 11, 2003
Nikki always had a smile on her face. My thoughts are with you, her family.
Kelly Johnson
July 10, 2003
To the Ellis Family,
Nikki had a smile that could light up a room and a joyful spirit that warmed the hearts of everyone that knew her. I am blessed to have called her a friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Ruth Gillard
July 10, 2003
Cynthia, I am so sorry for your and your family's loss. I know it is difficult when your child goes first but you can never question
the Lord, he knows best. He never
closes a door without opening
another door. All my prayers go out
to you and your family.
Milika Stone
July 10, 2003
I will always remember Nicole as the sweet, shy and quiet freshman at Pius. But I also feel privileged to have the opportunity to see her grow into an outstanding woman when we met up again at Marquette.
Her smile and beaming personality will surely be missed by all who ever met her. I will continue to keep her parents and sister in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Duelge-Strelecki
July 10, 2003
Nikki was a great friend with a heart of gold and a smile that no one will ever forget. I'll miss you Nikki, but you're forever in my heart.
Josh Sutter
July 10, 2003
A smile always comes to my face when I think of Nikki - because she was always smiling and it was infectious. I'll keep on smiling because that's how she'd like it! All thoughts and prayers with her family and friends....
gregory merriweather
July 10, 2003
God bless you & your family on your lost. God loves you & so do we . from the Merriweather family at 1214 east 158th. street God loves you -----Gregory sr.,wife Joi ,Ashley ,baby Brittany & minister Gregory jr.
Nikki Purvis
July 9, 2003
My prayers and thoughts are with the Ellis family in this time of bereavement. Nikki was a funloving and genuinely sweet person and will be missed dearly. May the good Lord bless her soul and provide strength to the Ellis family.
Valerie Bobb
July 9, 2003
Bo and Family,
I could not believe my eyes when I picked up todays journal sentinel to see my bright wonderful friend had died. I remember all the fun times we had at Marquette while I was a trainer and she was a manager as well as working the front desk of Humphrey together. Please accept my prayers and condolences. Know that had I known sooner, I would have been in Chicago tonight. I was there in spirit. She was a unique, loving person with the unique family. I only wish I had known the e-mail I got from her not 6 weeks ago would be my last. I will remember her always. Bo, Cynthia and Christina...you will be in my prayers.
Kristy Pittman
July 9, 2003
Bo, Cynthia, and Christina,
I will never forget Nikki. She had a smile and a laugh that would light up any room at Marquette. The world has lost a wonderful person in lil' Bo. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Tyra Bates
July 9, 2003
Dear Ellis Family:
May God Bless and keep you all.I send my deepest condolences to the family at this time and always. We still have Nikki "the sweet angel in spirit" and know that she is in the most highest place and is watching over from the Heavens above.
Sincerely,
Tyra
Iris Aikins-Afful
July 9, 2003
Dear Ellis family,
I would like to sincerely offer you my condolences and prayers on the loss of Colie-cole (as I endearingly liked to call her). I was so shocked to hear this unfathomable news. I could tell how much her loved ones meant to her. I was truly blessed to be allowed to have her in my life for the brief period that I did. She was such a beautiful, friendly, caring and genuine person. You did such a wonderful job raising her! Christina, keep the faith and hang in there, I know it is not easy but I can definitely relate. God bless all of Nicole's loved ones, I know He will help us through this no matter how hard it is to believe in the time being.
Carole Dorsey
July 9, 2003
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ellis and Christina,
Although I have never had the pleasure of meeting Nicole in person, I felt that I had met her simply from talking with Christina(at Discovery). Her love and admiration for her big sister always shone brightly. My heartfelt prayers are extended to you and your family at this difficult time.
Diane Flowers
July 9, 2003
To the Ellis Family:
We would like to offer our condolences on your lost. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
The Flowers Family
Tracey Tarkington
July 9, 2003
Bo, Cynthia & Christina,
I remember this skinny girl with glasses who came to basketball camp! Before we knew it, she was part of our family. She was always a joy to be around and I will miss her dearly. Praying for you and your extended family. May the Lord comfort you!
Shari Tucker (Smith)
July 9, 2003
Ellis Family,
May God give you strength during this trying time. Nikki was such a joyous spirit. She touched everyone she came in contact with.
Kiesha Oliver-Hayes
July 9, 2003
Ellis Family,
My constant thoughts and prayers are wity you. Nikki was a wonderful person and she will be missed by many.
Kareeda Chones
July 9, 2003
Nikki-
More than anything else about you I will remember your smiling face and the fact that you always had something positive to say. You were there for all of us not only as a manager but more importantly a friend and sister...
You will be missed...
Love
Kareeda Chones
MU Women's Basketball 1998
David, Christine, Michael, Steven and Andrew Cuske
July 9, 2003
Cynthia and family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Laugh and cry, but most of all celebrate the wonderful life and memories of Nicole.
Anthony Garrett
July 9, 2003
God Bless the Family.....
Ed O'Brien
July 9, 2003
I just want to send my heartfelt condolences to the Ellis family. I never met Nikki on person but I talked to her a lot and she was always nice to me, and funny too. Rest in peace Nikki, God Bless you.
Jacqueline Faniel
July 9, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Aaron Stallworth, Jr
July 9, 2003
Words can not express the great loss that you have felt. Although I never got the unique blessing of meeting Nikki in person, just through our coversations, you could tell that she was a kind hearted and very loving individual. She has been always a please to converse with. It hurts my heart to know that she has passed. But I take joy in knowing that one day we shall finally get that opportunity to meet in a much better place. My prayers will continue to be with the family. May God strenghten you and keep you during this time.
Brian Teter
July 9, 2003
Dear Bo and family:
The thoughts and prayers from me and my family go to you and yours. I always enjoyed working with you when you were at Marquette and I know how important family is. Good luck to you and your family getting through this tough time. Nikki will be sorely missed by all!
Kyeshia Brakes
July 9, 2003
There has never been nor will there ever be another person that I will come across in my life as sweet as Lil' Bo.
There is no one who will ever compare to the type of daughter, sister, woman, & friend that Nikki is.
The memories I have of Nikki will last me a lifetime and I will cherish each and every one. If there weren't any posters, movies & music in heaven, there will be soon.
I'll miss you Nikki!
Your friend/sister/confidante,
Kyeshia
Erica Russo
July 9, 2003
I remember Nikki from her days with Marquette Basketball and am deeply saddened by her passing. My sympathies go out to her family.
Chiquita Oden
July 8, 2003
May memories keep close to you in spirit and thought. And always in your heart, today and forever you are in my prayers.
Quita
Sarah Mair
July 8, 2003
Although, I have never had an opportunity to meet Nikki face to face, she and I have shared many years of laughter. Take comfort in knowing that Nikki is now sitting at the right hand of God, and has received her Angel wings. She will forever remain in my heart and yours.
Ryan O'Donnell
July 8, 2003
Nicole, you meant the world to me and you were there anytime I needed you. I am a better person for knowing you and having you in my life. You are my best friend and I loved you with all of my heart...To the Ellis Family my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dave DeGrace
July 8, 2003
I loved getting to know Nikki as a member of the Marquette basketball family. You have my deepest sympathy and prayers.
Michele Burton
July 8, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with Nikki's family. She is now an Angel in a better place watching over all of us.
Mary Rick
July 8, 2003
Dear Cynthia and family,
May the strength and comfort of family and friends surround you in love during this time of great sadness. I hold you in my thoughts and my heart shares your sorrow.
Charles and Trudy Scott
July 8, 2003
Bo and Candy,
Nikki's death came as a tragic shock.
So young, so full of life. The years have flown by so fast.
This period of learning to live with Nikki's dealth will be difficult for you.Your pain is shared by us.
LONNIE & MARION SMITH
July 8, 2003
MAY GOD COMFOMFORT YOU WITH BLESSINGS AND PRAYERS AT THIS TIME OF NEED.
WE LOVE YOU AND BE STRONG THRU THIS TEST OF LIFE.GOD BLESS YOU, LONNIE,MARION, CARA & KENNETH AND HIS FAMILY
Frank Pugliese
July 8, 2003
Bo, Candy and Christina,
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Frank Pugliese and family
Bernard Gillespie Sr.
July 8, 2003
My earnest prayers go out to you and your family. Only God knows why He called Nikki home to be with Him. Look to Him for your strength. Even though I never met her, I feel as if I know her because I knew her Dad, who is a great guy.
May God Bless You and Give you strength.
Bernard (Bernie) Gillespie
Tim Blair
July 8, 2003
I was so saddened to learn of Nikki's passing, please accept my condolences. God Bless Nikki. And God Bless her family in these tough times.
Sidnee Smith
July 8, 2003
My prayers go out to Nikki's family. I am truely sorry for the lose of such a wonderful and beautiful person. I will miss her dearly.
Janice Taylor
July 8, 2003
It was just 24 years ago that your little tiny body came into this world. You were loved by so many, especially your mom & dad.
Although, we were miles a part we all new that you were a wonderful daughter and sister, cousin and friend.
You will be truly missed. GOD has his little angel back.
Love always
Janice, Fatty, Kobie, Kellii & Kim Taylor
Iris Morris
July 8, 2003
I pray your strength in the Lord.
Jeaneen Burnam (ICC)
July 8, 2003
To the Ellis Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you and all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving Nikki.
Dorothy Hunt
July 8, 2003
To know Nikki was to truly love her. A real genuine person who will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with the Ellis family.
FAYE PROCTOR
July 8, 2003
BO, CANDY AND CHRISTINA, MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU ALL, YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS, LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH
Kim Taylor
July 8, 2003
I remember when little Nicole was born when we lived in Colorado. The Taylor family is very sorry about your loss. (Janice, Fatty, Kim, Kobie, Kellii, Aolani & Kahlil)
Chris Hogrefe
July 8, 2003
Its never easy for those left behind when someone is taken from us but it may help you to know how many people share your sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cynthetta Patton
July 8, 2003
Dear Cynthia and Maurice
There is only one power and presence in the universe, God the Good omnipotent. You are in my prayers. Earth has no sorrows that heaven can not heal. Look to your faith for your strength and know that your friends and family are with you. God Bless
Girlie & Roy Thelmon
July 7, 2003
Dearest Cynthia and Bo,
Words cannot express our deepest sympathy on the passing of your daughter, Nikki. Our Prayers are with you and family during these difficult times.
mike bargen
July 7, 2003
she was a wonder girl from a wonder family. my thoughts and prays are with you all.
Marvin G. Towns Jr.
July 7, 2003
Your cousins Marvin(Porkey)Pam,and Arielle are very sadden by the loss of your daughter and sister. May God be with you and continue to be with you through this time and throughout the coming years, and take comfort in the love that you shared with her for the 24 years that your child and God's child lived on earth. I love you all and will see you very soon.
Marvin Jr.
Brian Barone
July 7, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Bo. Nikki brought many smiles to many people.
Ardis Morris III
July 7, 2003
Nikki, Your uncle Ardis misses you very much. You were more than special. You showed us what Christ meant when He said to love one another as I have loved you. Jesus gave us the Way you showed us the path. Nik-Nik you will forever be in my soul and I will love and miss you until we meet again. So as Uncle Phil would say, Until that time Nikki, until that time.
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Funeral services provided by:
A.A. Rayner & Sons Modern Funeral Service - Chicago318 East 71st Street, Chicago, IL 60619

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more