Born on June 3, 1951, in Hanover, PA, she was the daughter of the late Leslie Marvin Burris and Edna Lee Hendrickson Burris.
As the middle child in a bustling home of nine siblings, positioned squarely between three older brothers and three younger ones, Ellen developed a toughness and tenacity that became her trademark. Life in the Burris household gave her grit, resilience, and a sharp sense of justice, all of which she carried throughout her life. Even in later years, she identified closely with her roots and was always proud to be a “Burris.”
Ellen was striking and elegant, always impeccably dressed and drawn to beauty in all its forms. She had a curator’s eye, surrounding herself with meaningful and lovely objects. She was also deeply moved by music, often listening to her favorite songs on repeat—finding comfort, joy, and reflection in familiar melodies. But running was her greatest passion and when multiple sclerosis ended her ability to run, it was a profound loss. She once said that if there was a heaven, she saw herself running there, free and strong again.
Of all the relationships in her life, none brought her more joy than the one with her grandson, Grayson. She adored him completely and took immense pride in the kind, intelligent, and capable young man he is becoming. In every conversation, every story, and every prayer, he was there—at the center of her heart.
Ellen is survived by her husband and companion of 51 years, Charles Fields; her daughter, Dawn Fields Wise, and her husband, Travis; her treasured grandson, Grayson Wise; five brothers, Marvin (and his wife Lan), George, Richard, Pete, and Jeff; two sisters, Leslie McManis and Melissa Onesto; and a host of nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Daniel Burris.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 15th from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 16th at 11:00 a.m. at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with Pastor David Turner officiating. Ellen will be laid to rest following the service at Spring Hill Cemetery.
