Ellsworth “Ells” Edwards, 85, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully at home on January 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Throughout his life, Ells exhibited remarkable strength, fighting five different types of cancer.
A lifelong Wilmington resident, Ells graduated from P.S. duPont High School in 1957 and earned a degree from the University of Delaware. His passion for writing led to a successful career in journalism and public relations, with notable roles as a writer and handicapper for The Philadelphia Journal and as a desk editor for KYW News Radio. Ells later served as a Communications Director for Bell Atlantic and Verizon, retiring in 2006.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ells was deeply committed to his community. He volunteered with organizations such as the Delaware Sports Museum, Meals on Wheels, and Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he served as an usher. He was an avid fan of horse racing and UD football and enjoyed spending time in Cape May, NJ. Ells also loved to travel, with cherished trips to Italy, Greece, and London with his daughter, Erin. An enthusiastic gardener and cat lover, Ells enjoyed walking many miles through his neighborhood and unwinding with a glass of Chivas Regal. He found great joy in connecting with lifelong friends over lunch and sharing stories.
Ells is survived by his wife, Gail Edwards; his daughter, Erin Downing (Scott); and his grandsons, Hudson and Crosby Downing.
A private luncheon for family and close friends will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Ells’ memory to the Humane Animal Partners of Wilmington or Westminster Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, DE.
