Obituary of Suzanne L. Ellsworth

Rensselaer- Suzanne Lee Despart-Ellsworth, age 66, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at the Van Rensselaer Manor Nursing Home from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. Suzanne was born in Albany, to Edward and the late Joan Despart, on June 18, 1957. She was a graduate of Vincentian Institute in Albany. She went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York at Albany. Suzanne began her professional career at the New York State Consumer Protection Board and for a short time she owned her own art gallery, in Connecticut. She was also a professor at a local community college. Suzanne was a dedicated mother for many years while she was working. She was extremely artistic and loved stained glass, particularly creating pieces. Suzanne enjoyed running and loved all genres of music. During her time at Van Rensselaer Manor, she was known for her upbeat attitude and how she loved to dance around the unit with the staff.

          Suzanne is predeceased in death by her mother. In addition to her father, she is survived by her children; Lisa (Eric) Hockler, Jennifer (Matthew) Janowski, Colin Ellsworth, Elizabeth Ellsworth, and her grandchildren; Payton, Evan, Nolan, and Ayden Janowski. She is also survived by her siblings; Michael (Dawn) Despart, Lori (Dan) Flanders, Edward (Lisa) Despart Jr., Stephen (Lisa) Despart, Gary (Siobhan) Despart, James (Kathy) Despart, as well as several nieces and nephews, and her former husband, Brian Ellsworth.

          A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 6:00 pm, at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Ave. Rensselaer, NY 12144. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Suzanne’s family prior to the memorial service from 4:00-6:00 pm, at the funeral home.

          In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Team Suzanne” of the Alzheimer's Association at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/donate/103966929390569