Eleanor Jane Curtis, “EJ”, 80, of Gaylord, Michigan, passed away at home on July 2, 2018 surrounded by family, her devoted caregiver Maggie Budd and two hospice angels. She was born in Olney, Illinois on July 30, 1937 to William Hugh Curtis and Lucy Lucille (Fitzgerrel) Curtis.

At the young age of 18, Eleanor moved to Chicago, Illinois. After years of service with Goodwill she began her long standing career at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center of Chicago. She retired in 1992 and moved to Northern Michigan to be closer to family.

Eleanor enjoyed traveling throughout the United States with her late brother, Thomas “Tom” Curtis. She especially loved traveling to wherever her favorite country artist, Jeff Carson, was playing. Eleanor was a fearless, strong and independent soul that wanted to prove to the world that people with disabilities were able to succeed when given the opportunity.

Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Evelyn Antonette Curtis of Wheaton, Illinois; grandson, Ralph Edward Baggs, Junior of Kingsley, Michigan; granddaughter, Barbara Lucille Baggs of Beverly, Massachusetts; great-grandson, Ralph Edward Baggs, III; brother William S. Curtis (wife Wanda) of Surprise, Arizona; sister, Rita Sue (Curtis) Vowels of Kalkaska, Michigan and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, sister, Phyllis Jean (Curtis) Galloway, brother Larry Dale Curtis, sister Joyce Faye Curtis, brother Thomas Keith Curtis, brother Gary Wayne Curtis and niece Kimberly Renee Vowels.

Memorial Service and Celebration of Life held at Alpine Village Baptist Church in Gaylord, Michigan.  Donations can be made in her honor to the Eleanor J. Curtis Scholarship Fund through Chemical Bank in Gaylord, Michigan. The scholarships will provide tuition assistance to those seeking careers in healthcare services.

Nelson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Gaylord, MI