Mrs. Mary Ann Companion, 86, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at her home amongst those who loved her the most on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 5:29 am following a brief illness. She was born in Elkhart on July 22, 1933 and was the daughter of the late John and Pauline (McLaughlin) Ellsworth. She married Antony “Tony” Companion in Jellico, TN on Oct. 3, 1970, and he passed away in Elkhart on Dec. 2, 2019.

Surviving are her sons Jodie Miller of St. Joseph, MI and Wesley (Sophie) Miller of Elkhart; stepsons Paul (Desiree) Companion of Venice, FL and Anthony Companion of Elkhart; stepdaughter Terri (Jim) Merriman of Niles, MI; brother Harold Ellsworth of Elkhart; sisters Joan Besinger of Mishawaka and Judy Nine and Betty Jo (Richard) Moore, both of Elkhart. 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter survive as well, along with a host of extended family and friends. Preceding Mary in death are her siblings Ann Pappas, Colleen Kittredge, Rita Roose, Linda Burger and Robert, Donald and John Ellsworth, Jr.

Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart will host a private Celebration of Mary’s Life on Monday, June 8, 2020. Pastor Jeremy Sarber, Chaplain at Billings Funeral Home, will officiate and burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart.

Mary was a homemaker and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary at DAV Post #19. She was a dedicated spouse and mother throughout her life and enjoyed spending time with her loving family and her friends. When she wasn’t down at the DAV playing Bingo, she was either playing the slots at the Blue Chip or involved in a serious game of Euchre somewhere. She was also an avid animal lover, gardener and outdoors person, and will be missed by her cats Tim, Mean, Snowball and Baby Girl. 

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, extended family and friends are encouraged to browse the funeral home’s website, where one can share the obituary, leave condolences for the family and order flowers. Donations in Mary’s memory may be given to any no-kill animal shelter or to the Salvation Army.