Ellen M. Schuyler

Obituary for Ellen May Gilman Schuyler 

8/15/1932 – 5/31/2025

Ellen May Gilman Schuyler, a woman defined by her remarkable perseverance, unwavering strength, and profound love, passed away on May 31, 2025, at the age of 92. Born August 15, 1932, in La Salle, Colorado, to Alonzo William Gilman and Eva May Humphrey, Ellen was raised on a Platteville farm alongside her siblings Don, Dulcie, and Lonny. Her early determination was evident when she learned to write left-handed despite societal discouragement. After graduating from Platteville High School, she worked at Mountain Bell as a telephone operator. She married Lowell Lee Schuyler on June 1, 1952, and they welcomed Timothy Lee, Deborah May, and Cynthia Lynn. Ellen and Lowell bravely faced immense sorrow with the sudden loss of Cynthia at age two and the lifelong challenges associated with Deborah's special needs.

Ellen's dedication to service and education left an incredible legacy. In an era of limited resources for special needs children, she tirelessly advocated for Deborah. This included personally driving five children to Commerce City for two years and serving as a bus aide for 27J for twelve and a half years, significantly expanding special education access in the community. Her commitment extended to her faith and community, serving as a Sunday School teacher and superintendent, singing in the choir, and participating in women's clubs. She enjoyed sewing and square dancing with Lowell, served as a Boy Scout den mother, and cherished extensive travels with the Pioneer Club of Public Service, including eight years wintering in Mesa, Arizona. Later, she was active at Crossroads Baptist Church and Chapel Hill Church of the Nazarene, known for her contributions and ever-present smile.

A stage 4 breast cancer survivor, Ellen transformed her personal battle into a source of hope, inspiring countless others through her participation in Relay for Life for many years. Her resilient spirit profoundly impacted her family, particularly her grandchildren—Christina Lynn Schuyler Allison, Carolyn Sue Schuyler Rouse, Daniel Lee Schuyler, and Sabrina Jo Schuyler—to whom she felt like a second mother during their childhoods. Ellen was preceded in death by her husband Lowell, brother Don, daughter Cindy, and great-grandson Ayden Rouse. She is survived by her siblings Dulcie and Lonny; her children Tim (Rebecca) and Debbie; four grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and seventeen step-great-grandchildren. Ellen May Gilman Schuyler's life was a testament to unwavering love and an indomitable spirit, enriching all who knew her. We look forward to being reunited with her in heaven.

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