MILFORD - Ellen was born in Baltimore County, Md., in May 1940, the daughter of Charles Sears and Ruth Naomi Blottenberger. After graduating Southern High School in Baltimore, Md., Ellen moved to California and was a longtime resident of San Francisco, Calif., where she raised her children and married her true love, Dr. John F. Steinman. Ellen worked a series of office administration jobs before becoming a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. She was a minister at the Church of Natural Grace and volunteered at animal rescue shelters around the Bay Area. After the passage of her husband John, Ellen moved back to the East Coast and to Milford in 2005, She was active in her church, volunteering to work with its children. She participated among friends in a variety of activities in Milford - in the senior center, in theater groups, in book clubs and in the bowling league. She enjoyed nature and animals, arts and crafts, as well as playing scrabble and cards among friends. She was able to travel to Europe and around the states in her last years. She lived a gentle and humble life and was always a friend. She is pre-deceased by her devoted husband, John; her parents, Charles and Ruth; her stepfather, Stanley Knapik; and her step-daughter and good friend, Judy Gaylord. Ellen is survived by her two sons, Christopher Blake Schwarz and Jason Kurt Schwarz; her stepson, Dr. James Steinman and his wife, Katherine; her stepdaughter, Jill Kregstein; her eight grandchildren, Justin, Michael, Stephanie, Peter, Daniel, Rebecca, Mischa, and Nathan; and her constant companion, Contessa ("Tessa"). In accordance with Ellen's wishes, the immediate family will hold a private ceremony at a later date. Parties may contact Pippin Funeral Home in Wyoming, for more information at 302-697-7002. The family wishes to thank Pastor Troy and the congregation of New Life Baptist Church for all their support. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her name to her church. Live humbly and love openly.