Jennifer Lynn Ellerman-Queen

Jennifer Ellerman-Queen, a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, friend and mentor, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. Born on October 1, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois, Jennifer was the cherished daughter of Ann Nancy and the late Robert Ellerman. She is survived by her devoted husband, Walter Lee Queen, her brother Scott Ellerman, and her sisters Kimberly (Alfred) Russell and Kathleen (Brian) Grant. Dear "Auntie Jen" to Keith (deceased), Kara, Erin, Dana, Matt, Rob, and Allison. Adoring and proud great "Auntie Jen" to her most treasured joy, Raiden.

Jennifer pursued her passion for learning at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology in 2007. Jennifer furthered her education with a Master of Arts in Women's and Gender Studies and a graduate certificate in Women's Health in 2012. Her academic journey led her to a fulfilling career at the University of South Florida, where she served as an Assistant Professor of Instruction, Office Manager, and Graduate Program Coordinator for the Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Jennifer was fondly considered by both colleagues and students to be the true heart of the department. Her greatest joy was teaching, where her love for her students was reciprocated in their glowing evaluations.

Even though she was the baby of the family, Jennifer was the keeper of family stories, whose memory held generations of cherished tales. Her talents extended to the kitchen, where she delighted in planning and preparing gourmet holiday meals for her family. She found delight in all varieties of music and was extremely cultured by her diverse interest in worldly affairs. A devoted kitty mom and plant enthusiast, Jennifer's nurturing spirit was evident in all aspects of her life.

Jennifer's legacy of kindness, wisdom, humor, tenacity and love for all will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, colleagues and the countless students whose lives she enriched, and she will be so very missed.

May Jennifer's brilliant light forever shine.

Burial services on Thursday, December 12 at 1:00 pm at Heartwood Preserve, 4100 Starkey Blvd, Trinity, FL 727-376-5111. Please gather at Welcome Center at 12:45 where we will process together for a brief prayer service and burial. Reception to follow at the Welcome Center. www.HeartwoodPreserve.com