Ellen Elizabeth Russell

Ellen Elizabeth Russell, 68, of Peoria Heights, Illinois, passed away on August 22, 2026, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Ellen was born on May 8, 1958, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late Alan Tankersley and Dorothy Mehalic Tankersley. On April 15, 2000, she married Michael Russell, her husband, best friend, and lifelong companion. For more than 26 years, they built a life together filled with love, laughter, friendship, and cherished memories. Nothing meant more to Ellen than her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who found some of her happiest moments simply being with the people she loved. She took great pride in her children and especially treasured her grandchildren, Hunter, Isabelle, and Michael. Watching them grow, celebrating their milestones, and being part of their lives brought her immeasurable joy. Before choosing to stay home to raise her children, Ellen worked in fashion advertising and design. Her creativity remained a part of her life and found expression in the things she loved most. She especially enjoyed gardening and took great pride in creating and caring for her own special garden, a place that reflected her imagination and love of nature. Ellen had a deep love for animals and cared for several rescue pets throughout her life. Through her son, Ellen developed an appreciation for martial arts and spent more than 30 years cheering him on while also sharing his passion for the sport. She loved tattoos, all things fashion and beauty, and music—especially classic and Southern rock—and could happily lose herself in science fiction and murder mysteries. Ellen was deeply proud of her family’s connection to the military. Her late father was a veteran, her brother is also a veteran, and her youngest daughter and son-in-law proudly serve on active duty. She especially admired her daughter and son-in-law for their strength, dedication, and commitment to serving others and their country. She understood the sacrifices that come with that calling and held lasting respect for those who serve and the families who stand beside them. Ellen is survived by her husband, Michael Russell; her children, Cody Bessler, Lily Bessler, Rachel Jones, and Sierra (Jason) Landfried; her grandchildren, Hunter Wiese, Isabelle Jones, and Michael Jones Jr.; her sister, Dory (James) Krusa; her brother, Patrick (Beata) Tankersley; and many extended family members and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alan and Dorothy Tankersley; her sister, Robyn Carlson; her niece, Jennifer Weber; and many beloved pets she cared for throughout her life who were waiting to greet her on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. Ellen will be remembered for her silly free spirit, unmistakable personality, generous heart, and the way she brought her own unique spark to the lives around her. She lived authentically, loved fiercely, and never tried to be anyone but herself. The laughter, stories, and memories she leaves behind will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the first responders, nurses, and all other health care professionals who cared for Ellen during her final moments. Ellen held a special respect for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others, something she understood especially well through her oldest daughter, a nurse. On behalf of Ellen and her family, thank you to everyone who cared for her with compassion, dignity, and kindness when she needed it most. A Celebration of Life for Ellen will be held at a later date. Memories and condolences can be shared at Schmidt-Haller.com.

Ellen Elizabeth Russell

May 8, 1958 - August 22, 2026