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Charamaine's obituary

A life cannot be summed up by a couple paragraphs. A trillion words could not express the essence of her soul. On May 31, 1958 God gave us Charamaine Ellison. Born in Chicago, the daughter of hardworking parents Hattie Jo Young and Douglas Ellison. Chara was blessed with 4 siblings who were her first best friends. They are Rosayln, Gregory, Sharon, and Glenda. She loved them with all of her heart.

She was raised in church and had a deep love for Jesus. Nothing kept her away from Him and nothing could separate her from His love. Chara walked with that truth every single day her life. She was bright, intelligent, analytical, giving, and loved her family and friends fiercely.

Most of all, she would do anything for her kids; all 5 of them. Terrance, Taron, Tramaine, Titus, and Trisha. Her beloved five T's. Her heart, her essence, her everything. She freely gave all of herself to them. She sacrificed for them when there was only herself to provide for them. Giving her blood and plasma, sacrificing gifts and holidays to make sure her kids were fed, had the necessities and they knew Jesus. She did that all while pursuing a degree in Economics and serving at church.

Chara made sure she took her kids to church throughout the week and on Sundays. And she made sure they served alongside her. Chara would say: "We've gotta serve. That's what we're called to do." And she never stopped serving people until she went to be with Jesus.

She met Brian McKnight, fell in love and served him with all she had. Chara had the ability to elevate him like no one else. Besides Jesus, Brian was the only man she loved so deeply. Her love for him was incomprehensible, insurmountable, and undeniable. They built a business together, travelled the country together, and she led them on a journey of service.

Chara was known by everyone who met her. Even if they encountered her once, a person immediately knew she was loving, kind and good. Simple, right? But that's who she was. She would do almost anything for anyone at a moment's notice. Chara literally laid her life down for Jesus and those around her. It was her life's mission to please God. Most of what she uttered to people were prayers, scriptures, laughter, passion, help, wise advice, stillness, and joy. Her essence was sweet and jovial. What a gorgeous sweetie pie she was.

Although her health was failing, she knew God would never fail her. He didn't. She would either find healing and peace in heaven or on earth. God was like: "Come on sweetie, come on with me. You did so well. Well done, good and faithful servant." Well done.

What she would say to you today and everyday? "Don't worry about me. I'm with Jesus. With my friends praising God and kickin' it!" And then she would laugh her sweet laugh, smile, and say: "Don't cry. I'm alright baby." 

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Charamaine McKnight