Ellen R Housley

August 12, 1926 – January 30, 2026

Ellen Housley, 99, of Bettendorf, IA, passed away on January 30, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard E. Housley.

She is survived by her children, Lesley (Mark), Jane (Craig), Bryan (Chris) along with six grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

One of ten siblings, Ellen, was born above her parents’ delicatessen in Chicago, making her a natural in the kitchen from the very start. She lived independently in her home until her final day and was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran. For more than twenty years, she served her church’s “Sunshine Lady,” sending cards and notes to the homebound, sick, and grieving.

Ellen loved cooking and baking, approaching recipes with increasing creativity over the years. She enjoyed playing cards, checkers, and Rummikub with her grandchildren. In her younger days was an accomplished bowler—once scoring a perfect game.

Ellen will be remembered by her family and friends for her endurance, unforgettable ways, the deep love she showed her grandchildren, and a lifetime of stories that will be lovingly told—and sometimes debated. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.