Brenda Ellis McMillian, a native of Chicago, IL, and a resident of Mobile, AL departed this life for her eternal home on February 6, 2016. She was the eldest of four children born, April 23, 1952, to Edwin T. Ellis, Jr. and Beatrice Ellis.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Edwin T. Ellis, III.

She confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized at Union Missionary Baptist Church, Plateau, AL, under the leadership of the late Dr. H.H. Smith. She was called into the ministry under Rev. Michael Howard, at Truelight Baptist Church. She retired from the Mobile County Public School System after 33 years of service as an educator.

Brenda McMillian leaves to cherish her memories three children: Felexis Ellis, Kenyata Ellis (Demetrious) Rankin, and Lawrence Ellis; two brothers: Ronald Ellis, Sr. and Michael (Dorothy) Ellis; ten grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, Godchildren, other relatives, and friends.

Her remains will lie in state on Friday, February 12, 2016, from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2016, from 9:00 am until the 11:00 am funeral hour at the Truelight Baptist Church where the officiating Pastor is Rev. Michael Howard. Interment will follow in Lawn Haven Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to the professional and dignified direction of Smalls Mortuary.