William D. "Darrell" Ellison, 73, Remembered for Military Service, Academic Contributions, and Family Dedication

William D. "Darrell" Ellison, age 73, of Bourbonnais, passed away on July 23, 2025. Born on September 19, 1951, in Gary, IN, he was the son of William Edward and Virginia Parker Ellison. Darrell was a professor at Purdue University and also worked for the Norfolk Southern Railroad. He enjoyed reading, building train sets, discussing politics and education, and playing the guitar. Darrell served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1969 to 1989, attaining top-ranking pilot status.

Survived by his wife Patricia Ellison; children Shantae, Karissa (Mitchell), Jaqwae, Jamar, Jermaine (Lauren), and Tansy (Durand); brother Gordon Derrick (Cynthia); grandchildren Greyson, Giselle, Gabriel, Jazzma, and Ariel; great-grandson Jaheem; sister-in-law Phyllis (Michael); brother-in-law James (Cheryl); dog Eysha; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Darrell was predeceased by his parents.

Visitation will be on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home, with funeral services on Saturday. Cremation rites will follow with inurnment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery on Monday, August 4, 2025. Elder Derrick Wenzellan will officiate the ceremony. The family has requested memorial gifts.

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