Mae A. Ellison, age 86 of Mecosta, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2008. She was born March 17, 1922 in Hartley, Delaware to William and Sylvia (Lindsey) Long. Mae's family moved to Big Rapids when she was a child. She graduated from Big Rapids High School and married John Ellison on July 3, 1941. John served in the army during World War II and the young family moved several times. They settled in the Detroit metropolitan area, specifically in Garden City, to make their home. Mae worked as a secretary while in the city, but when John retired from Michigan Bell they returned to the Big Rapids area and made their home at Pretty Lake. Mae will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her devoted family including,three children; Sandra (Manuel) Rodriguez of Mesa, Arizona, Cheryl Gaither of Mecosta, Duane (Patricia) Ellison of Rose Township,6 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Less than 6 months ago, on November 21, 2007 Mae was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, John R. Ellison. She was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Connie; a son-in-law, Wm. "Jerry" Gaither; a brother, William Long and a sister, Sylvia Hewlett. Funeral services will take place 2:00 p.m. Sunday, April 20th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with burial at Pine Plains Cemetery. The family will greet friends at the funeral home today (Saturday) from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services on Sunday. Memorial contributions in Mae's name may be given to "The Susan P. Wheatlake Women's Cancer and Wellness Fund" , supporting women with breast cancer.