Willie O. Ellison, Jr., 61, of Olean, NY, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on May 31, 2022 at his residence in Olean NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, He was the son of the late Annie Ruth Ellison and Willie O. 'Pete' Ellison, Sr.

Willie was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School.  He proudly served in the United States Army from 1979 until his honorable discharge in 1980.  Willie was employed for over 20 years as a chef at various local restaurants in Niagara Falls, and also worked as a self-employed handyman assisting family, friends and the community. He was very active at his church (Eric Church) in Olean, and also was the intake coordinator at the Oxford House in Olean NY. Willie enjoyed fishing, barbecuing, traveling, shopping and spending time with family. Willie touched many hearts and was a loving and caring person.

Willie is survived by his fiancée, Judith Armstrong; his son, Jeffrey Crothers; his granddaughter, Jalynn Crothers; siblings, Angela Ellison and Desiree Ellison; aunts and uncles, Lizetta (late Perry) Sealey and Betty (Dr. Leon) Smith, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Timothy J. Ellison, Sr. and Kenneth E. Ellison and his aunts, Sarah 'Ginny' Cauley, Murlene Smith, and his grandparents, Dewey and Myrtle Lee Smith.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 7 from 10 AM – 12 PM at St. Mark's Open Door Baptist Church, 2901 Highland Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14305, where funeral services will begin at 12 PM, concluding with Military Honors.  Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.