Ellen Sue Mitchell, 63, of Virginia Beach, VA died at her home on October 2, 2024. She was born on September 16, 1961 in Newark, NJ to Thelma Perin and the late Melvin Perin. Also preceding her in death are her grandfather, Eddie Kriegman, and her brothers-in-law, Warren Smyth and John Smyth.

Left to cherish her memory are her life partner of 30 years, Brian Maguire; daughter, Amanda Mitchell (Mike); mother, Thelma Perin; sisters, Cathy Smyth and Wendy Smyth; and nephew, Michael Smyth (Heather).

Ellen graduated from Roselle Park High School in NJ in 1979 and went on to attend art school in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She worked for many years as a unit secretary at multiple hospitals in NJ. Ellen greatly enjoyed interacting with the nurses, doctors, and patients. She also spent many evenings volunteering with the EMTs.

Baking and cooking were passions of Ellen’s. She loved cooking meals for her family and friends and was well renowned for her famous potato latkes. Another passion was rescuing animals, even though she was allergic. In her free time she could often be found browsing flea markets, craft shows, garage sales, and antique shops with her daughter, Amanda. Ellen also enjoyed music, live concerts, dancing, and spending nights watching classic movies with her life partner, Brian.

Ellen was a loving and caring daughter, sister, mother, life partner, aunt, and friend. She will be sorely missed but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.