It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Nancy Jean Ellis (née Salisbury) on April 22, 2026, at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, at the age of 88.
Nancy was born on February 23, 1938, in Windsor to her loving parents, Cyril Salisbury and Elaine Salisbury (née Shepley), both of whom predeceased her. As a young girl, Nancy lived in Halifax while her father served in the Canadian Armed Forces. The family later settled in Wilkesport, which remained home to the Salisbury family for many years.
Nancy first married Fred Booth, and together they welcomed three sons. Their first son, Kevin, sadly passed away at just six weeks old due to a heart condition. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving sons, Daryl James Booth (Denise) of Wallaceburg, and Peter Duane Booth (Brenda) of Vaughan. She is also survived by neice Shery Lucier (Mike), and nephews, Richard Salisbury (Dayna) and David Salisbury (Michelle). Pre-Deceased by her brother James Richard Salisbury, and sister in-law, Jesse Salisbury (nee Foster) and niece, Detta Salisbury.
After spending five years living in Roseville, Nancy returned to Canada and courageously raised her two boys largely as a single mother for many years. She later settled in Alvinston, where she met her second husband, Ken Manning. In 1975, Nancy returned to the Salisbury family farmhouse in Wilkesport, once again putting down roots close to family.
Nancy worked many jobs throughout her life and approached each with determination and care. Her roles included sales clerk at local hardware stores, manager of a Becker’s Milk Company store, and live-in caregiver and nanny in London. However, her most cherished role was being the devoted wife of her beloved husband, Doug Ellis, with whom she shared more than 35 wonderful years together living in and around the Wallaceburg area. Doug predeceased Nancy in 2017.
Nancy was a deeply loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She will be forever cherished by her grandchildren: David Booth, Amy Booth (Tash), Jonathan Booth (Katrina), and Nick Booth and Michael Booth, Jaymi Booth, Rachel Booth; and by her great-grandchildren: CeJay Booth, Alaya Booth, Alivia Booth, Adah Booth, and Addison Booth.
Nancy had a remarkable creative spirit and a gift for music and poetry. She loved writing poetry and setting her words to music in her own unique style. Over her lifetime, she created an extraordinary personal songbook of more than 400 songs—most of the melodies existing only in her mind, never written as sheet music. Family and visitors were often delighted by performances of her newest compositions, which she joyfully shared.
Nancy will be remembered for her strength, independence, creativity, and unwavering love for her family. Her life was filled with perseverance, music, and devotion to those she loved most. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience and love that will continue through generations.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance for their compassion and care during Nancy’s final days.
A private family service / A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Nancy’s memory.
Online condolences may be left at www.badderfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to the Badder Funeral Home, Dresden .
