Ellen Ruth Sheared, age 84, passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025, at home in Franklinville, New Jersey. Beloved sister of George (Sandra), Marie and Lorraine Knight (nee Sheared).
Services will be held at New Life in Christ Ministries, 895 Delsea Drive Franklinville, NJ 08322 on Monday, July 7, 2025. The family will receive guests from 10:00-11:00 AM. Memorial Service will be held from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM.
Born March 16, 1941, Ellen was the third of six children born to John and Bessie Kirby Sheared. Raised in Franklinville, she attended the Franklin Township Public Schools. Ellen earned a General Education Diploma (GED) from the Vineland Public Schools and an Associate of Arts degree in Culinary Arts from Atlantic Community College.
Early work experiences shaped the career choices Ellen made later in life. Her first jobs were in the food service industry. In 1973, she was hired as a Human Services Assistant at Vineland Developmental Center. While working at VDC, she joined the union and in 1977 was appointed Shop Stewart of AFSCME Council 71 where she served until elected Council 71 President in 1985. She served in that position until she retired in 2002.
In recognition of her work ethics and leadership skills, her union brothers and sisters nominated her to serve on numerous local and state boards and committees. She served multiple terms as Chapter President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU). As president, she served on National, regional and local executive boards and traveled extensively. Following her retirement from VDC, Ellen worked for Easterseals and the Gloucester County ARC and provided cleaning services for AFSCME Local 2215. In addition to working with handicapped citizens, Ellen utilized her catering degree to establish ‘Ellen’s Edibles’ where she prepared and served delicious soul food to clients throughout the region. She was a member of New Life in Christ Ministries and a Lifetime member of the NAACP.
Ellen is predeceased by her parents, John and Bessie, daughter Darlene, brothers John Jr. and Raymond. She leaves behind one brother George (Sandra), sisters Marie Sheared and Lorraine Knight; grandchildren Robert Sheared (Cindy), Nurah Muhammad (Tyrone), Angel Sheared, April Sheared; sister-in law, Shirley Sheared; great grandsons, Lawrence Sheared, Haidar Muhammad (Tasjané), Qahhar Muhammad, Tyler Sheared; nephews, Raymond Sheared, Ryan Knight (Mindy), Brian Sheared; a dear friend, Verda Waldo; and a host of family and friends.
Services are under the direction of BARCLAY FUNERAL HOME of Clayton. Sign the guestbook and send condolences at BarclayFuneralHome.net.
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