Barbara Joyce Ellsworth

Barbara Joyce Ellsworth, age 88, of Grand Rapids, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025.  She was born February 1, 1937, to the late Russell and Catherine Parmelee.  Barbara and her husband, Jay, were married on May 13, 1960, and shared more than 61 wonderful years together before his passing on February 25, 2022. Barbara worked for the Kent County Clerk for 20 years as office manager before retiring.  She enjoyed sewing, doing word searches, camping with her husband, and spending the winters in Arizona. She especially enjoyed playing board games with her grandchildren. 
She will be lovingly remembered by her two children, Cynthia (Gary) DeBoer, Jay Ellsworth; grandchildren, Emily (Donovan) Bursma, Elizabeth (Mike) Mennes, Alexandria Ellsworth, Austin Ellsworth; great-grandchildren: Macey, Raiden, William Mennes and Ryker Bursma; brother, Earl (Mary) Parmelee; and sister-in-law, Patricia Hillsamer.  She was predeceased by her siblings Russell Parmelee and Kathryn Huizinga.   
Memorial services will be held at 11 am, Thursday, November 6 at North Park Presbyterian Church, 500 N. Park Street NE, Grand Rapids, with Rev. Dylan Mason officiating.  Relatives and friends may visit with the family at the church at one hour prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to North Park Presbyterian Church.