Darrell Eugene Ellison

Darrell Eugene Ellison, age 58, of Hamden, CT, departed this life suddenly and unexpectedly on December 5, 2023, at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was born on November 1, 1965, in New Haven, Connecticut, to the late Claude Ellison Sr. and Marie Greenlee Ellison. Darrell was a proud alumnus of Sacred Heart Grammar School and Richard C. Lee High School, graduating with the Class of 1983. Throughout his life, Darrell showcased a strong work ethic and was employed by Harold's Formal Wear for many years before transitioning to a career driving buses, where he worked for First Student and Dattco Bus Company. At the time of his passing, he served as an Assistant Manager at Pro Park, LLC and a driver for New Horizons at Foote School. Beyond his professional life, Darrell was a family man who cherished the moments spent with his loved ones. He was particularly fond of his two grandchildren, affectionately known as "Papa" to them. Darrell's commitment to family extended beyond blood ties, as he welcomed friends into his home, earning them the endearing title of "the Bros," a testament to the deep bonds he formed throughout his life. The Bros consisted of all who spent quality time at the Ellison Home: John Holmes, Marvin Jones, H. Calvin Bacote, Terry Bacote, Gary Highsmith, Patrick Mims, Darrell Johnson, Steve Harvin, Kevin Blackmon, Andre Nichols, Lionel Nixon, Gerald Robinson, and Dave Robinson. A true sports enthusiast, Darrell's loyalty was divided between the Chicago Bulls on the basketball court, New York Yankees on the baseball diamond, and the Pittsburgh Steelers on the football field, remaining a die-hard Steelers fan through thick and thin. His passion for sports didn't end there; during his school years, Darrell enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, showcasing his athleticism and love for the game. Darrell's interests were diverse, reflecting a love for music and culture. An old-school hip-hop fanatic, he found joy in the beats and rhymes that defined an era. Additionally, Darrell was a proud member of the Tuskegee Drones, a club that shared his passion for flying drones, fostering close friendships with Columbus Wilkins and Henry "Rodney" Murphy. Darrell especially enjoyed making music videos with his barber, James Williams. In addition to his vibrant personality and numerous interests, Darrell leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and a commitment to family that will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. While Darrell had many friends, his dearest friends that he spent most of his time with were John Holmes, Marvin Jones, Columbus Wilkins, Rodney Murphy and Patrina Reddick of Charlotte, NC. Darrell leaves to cherish his memories, his mother, Marie M. Ellison, of Hamden, CT; his only child, Aaron D. Ellison (Denisha Thomas) of Hamden, CT, granddaughter, Arianna S. Ellison and grandson, Jace C. Ellison, of Hamden, CT, step-grandson Devon Thomas, of West Haven, CT; one brother, Claude Ellison, Jr. (Veronica Gilbert), of Hamden, CT; two sisters, Dorothy J. Robinson (William), of Hillside, IL, Yvonne Ellison Jones (Keith), of Hamden CT; two aunts, Addie M. Green and Rosie Ellison, both of New Haven, CT; one uncle Roger Ellison (Mary), of Hamden, CT; God Sisters, Lora Blango (Fecilous), of Cary, NC, and Lizz McCrea, of New Haven, CT; Godbrothers, Kenneth B. Garrison, of Anderson, SC, Roger Jones, Jr., of Frederick, MD, Marshant Jones, of New Haven, CT, Tylone M. Priestley, of Pendleton, SC, and John Shines, of Burlington, NC; Special Great-niece, Krystiana Clark, of Greensboro, NC; and several other nieces, great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends who became family. Darrell also leaves behind his son’s mother and best friend, Michelle Sutton. In addition to his father, Darrell was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Cleveland and Doshie Ellison, his maternal grandparents, James and Gussie Greenlee; one grandson Aaron Ellison, Jr.; 3 aunts, Edie Mae Orange, Eva Janie Garrison, and his aunt/Godmother Gussie Gibson; six uncles, Samuel Greenlee, James F. Greenlee, Hack Garrison, Sr., Louis Ellison, and James Green; and one nephew Marquis L. Clark. In honoring Darrell's memory, let us remember the joy he brought to our lives and the camaraderie he shared with all who were fortunate enough to be part of his journey. May he rest in eternal peace.

Darrell Eugene Ellison

November 1, 1965 - December 5, 2023