Michael Lawrence Ellison Jr.,

Michael Lawrence Ellison, Jr. was born on October 11, 1984 to Dianna Lynn Brice and Michael Ellison Sr. He came with a head full of hair and the longest prettiest eyelashes, which became his calling card even into adulthood. As a child, Mike was kind and always ready to smile, laugh and play. His playful nature garnered him the nickname “Woodie.” As a youth he played little league with the Mt. Vernon Tigers, he was a Maryland pool regular and a part of one of best youth league basketball teams Beatty Recreation Center produced. With his lifelong friends in tow he became a drummer with African Beginnings Children’s Dance Ensemble. Michael attended East High School and graduated in 2003 as a Section leader of the Funk Mob drumline for the East High School Marching Tigers under Ms. Martha Hal and Marcel Reeder.
Michael knew early that he had a free spirit and working for “the man” wasn’t his path. He entered The Ohio State University Barber School and found his niche.’ After graduation Michael began providing services at a small shop on the westside called “Righteous Cuts,” it was then, Mike cut into the barber world! Due to his special talent of connecting to people, listening actively and finding silver linings, he built up a clientele that would follow him for the next 15 years. Here, co-workers became mentors and brothers, and clients became best friends. Mike’s professional journey had turned into a place of love, growth and wisdom.

In 2010, Mike became a dad. Beaming with pride, his legacy would carry on with the birth of his first son, Michael Ellison III. Family had always been important to him, but this started a new and important chapter in his life. Family dinners and activities were top of the list of ways to enjoy life. Traveling to celebrate family and friends also became important as trips to hang with the St. Louis family on down to Alabama could never be missed, if he could help it. He just recently returned from Jamaica celebrating his favorite guy, his brother, D’von. Michael was thrilled at the opportunity to become a dad again when his Fiancé’ Shyann Graham announced she was expecting. In October, the Ellison clan welcomed its last princess with Milanna Lynn Ellison. Mike spent many days just cooking and playing with his children, Michael, Mi’Air, Kristionna and Michael Lee Taylor and Milanna Lynn, who he nicknamed “Poodie Woodie.”

Michael was patient and understanding. Anyone could talk to him about their problems, situation or difficulties and he would listen, offer advice and tell you when to just “let it go.” He found joy and laughter in troublesome times and could bring a smile across your face with ease. He had compassion for all, no matter where their life had taken them.

His grandmother instilled kindness, Aunt Julie was his inspiration, Aunt Robin was his protector and Uncle Ed and Jay were his mentors along with being his babysitter. He loved all and was loved by all. And for this, he leaves behind a true example of what humanity is all about….honor one another.

He was preceded in death by great grandparents, Lemon and Marion Ellison and Geraldine Stevens. Grandparents, Julius and Annie Brice and Michael Stevens and Tarry Ellison (Waxie Gordon). Uncle Robert Ellison, Great Aunts and Uncles; Gwen Johnson, Brenda and Marvin Stevens, Ethel Pauding, Robert Dudley, James Bolden, David Triplett and his special cousin, Tatum L. Brice.

Those who remain with great memories of Michael Lawerence Ellison, Jr.; Children, Michael, Mi’Air, Milianni Ellison and bonus children, Kristionna Conner and Michael Taylor. His parents, Dianna Conner, Michael Ellison Sr. Brother, D’von (Chacere); Sisters, Tamia, Mykeisha and Brianna. Grandmother, Lou Stevens; Aunts and Uncles; Robin (Joseph) Gammon, Edward (Lynette), Julie Brice, Julius (Brittany) Brice, Tiffany, Terrance, Dejuan, Troy Stevens and Jeanine (Gary) Mullins. Special niece, Honestee and Aunt Darcella Smoot. Special friends, Larry, Donte, C-low, Cowboy, Ike Belcher and Kevin Seals. To his beloved cousins who’s bond is unbreakable through the best and hardest of
times. Remember, he is always with you…

Visitation 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Friday, March 29, 2024.

Visitation 9:00 AM Funeral Service 10:00 AM Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Gospel Lighthouse, 600 Frebis Ave. 43206.

Interment at Green Lawn Cemetery.