Mrs. Ellen Ann Craigo, 74, of Union, Michigan, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home following a brief illness on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 4:10 p.m., surrounded by the quiet familiarity of the place she loved most.

Ellen was born on May 16, 1951, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, to the late Earl and Ruth Simms. She grew up with the steady values of hard work, family loyalty, and perseverance—qualities that would define her life and the example she set for those around her.

On April 26, 1980, Ellen married the love of her life, Alan Craigo. Their marriage was one marked by devotion, partnership, and countless shared memories. Together they built a life rooted in family and simple joys, spending nearly thirty-seven wonderful years side by side until Alan’s passing in Union. Their bond remained one of the central pillars of Ellen’s life, and she carried his memory with her always.

In addition to her beloved husband and her parents, Ellen was preceded in death by three cherished grandchildren, Ryan Marshall, David Williamson, and Ashley Quick, whose memories remained forever close to her heart.

Ellen’s legacy continues through the family she loved so deeply. She is survived by her sons, Joseph Craigo and Adam Craigo, both of Union; and her daughters, Laura (Kip) Marshall of Bristol and Deeann Craigo of Osceola. She also leaves behind her brothers, Robert Simms and Richard Simms, both of Elkhart; her sisters, Coreen Miller of Elkhart and Sharon (Deles) Cagel of Falkville, Alabama, along with a loving and ever-growing host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought tremendous pride and happiness to her life. In addition, Ellen will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by a wide circle of extended family members, lifelong friends, and many acquaintances who were fortunate to know her.

For many people in the Elkhart area, Ellen was a familiar and welcoming presence at the Cracker Barrel restaurant in Elkhart. She was proudly part of the restaurant’s original opening staff and remained a dedicated employee there for several decades until her retirement in 2016. Over the years she greeted countless guests with her quick wit, warm personality, and unmistakable energy. For Ellen, work was never just a job—it was another opportunity to connect with people and brighten someone’s day.

Though small in stature, Ellen possessed a spirit that was anything but small. She was lively, determined, and full of personality. Friends and family often remarked that she could light up a room with her humor and candid observations. Life presented its share of hardships, yet Ellen met them with resilience and a determination to keep moving forward. Her strength, independence, and refusal to give up became a quiet inspiration to those who knew her best.

At home, Ellen found joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life. She loved spending time in her garden, nurturing plants and watching them flourish through the seasons. Her kitchen was often busy as well, especially during canning season. She was particularly known for her homemade bread-and-butter pickles, which quickly became a favorite among the grandchildren. She also enjoyed canning fresh salsa and even canning her own home-grown popcorn kernels—something that always sparked curiosity and conversation among family members.

Ellen also enjoyed quieter moments with a good book, listening to the timeless music of Elvis Presley, or relaxing with her favorite television series, including the popular Netflix show Bridgerton. Yet above all else, her greatest happiness came from the time she spent with her family. Her grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, affectionately calling her “Grandma Monkey,” a nickname that never failed to bring a smile to her face.

Those who knew Ellen will remember a woman who was hardworking, spirited, and deeply devoted to the people she loved. Her life was defined not by grand gestures, but by countless small acts of care, humor, and determination that quietly shaped the lives around her.

In accordance with Ellen’s wishes, cremation will take place with the assistance of Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart. No services are currently scheduled at this time.

Though she may be gone from this world, Ellen’s memory will live on in the laughter of her grandchildren, the traditions she passed down, and the many lives she touched along the way.