Nelsan Ellis Remembered

Nelsan Ellis was a philanthropist; he privately gave countless hours, efforts, time, finances, & energy to various organizations & causes without wanting acclaim or the usual celebrity pomp & circumstance. Nelsan loved children, and did his best to make a positive impact on all those he encountered. Nelsan was not just a friend, but a true friend to all that was blessed with an opportunity to spend real time with and truly know him. 

As TMZ reported on July 8th, 2017, Harvey, Illinois native, and HBO's 'True Blood' Star, Actor Nelsan Ellis, passed away from heart failure at age 39. I'm not quite sure why any of those aforementioned facts weren't published or highlighted, as his private indiscretions were certainly made public without hesitation. While mentioning his struggles or downfall, it should also be noted that he even gave his time and energy to the needy. Most times, those adult in age but not in mind children, even or so called 'friends' who didn't deserve it..(this is directed at them, they know who they are😎😉😘)  to his detriment🙏, were amongst the necessitous. This takes a toll on any human -- at times people find various unfortunate ways to take a break or a space to mentally heal. 

         Nelsan Ellis 1977-2017

       Photo By: Carrell Augustus

Other lessons can be learned in lieu of this terrible tragedy, than that of struggling with addiction. If you are dealing with any issue you feel you need help to manage, do not exacerbate the situation by surrounding yourself with selfish, self-loathing, unappreciative people as they will ultimately somehow contribute to your demise. Contributing is knowing but being silent. Adding to the downfall could be standing by and doing nothing. Failing them could also be defined as, acting as if life goes on, while your friend is still here in the flesh, drowning in sorrow. Those people will suck all the life out of you, yet continue putting themselves first when you’re no longer here. The idea of putting your mask on first before helping others is necessary; if we don’t listen to those simple instructions, we could lose our life trying to save the wrong ones. It gives entirely different meaning to the term, ‘our biggest haters are sometimes in our fan club.’ I digress. Indeed it will be a headache, but if you are struggling it truly takes surrounding yourself with loving people, with the best intentions coupled with good energy & spirits.

Remembering the precious memories of my fallen friend, I must also mention, Nelsan was an extraordinary writer & poet. He was an amazing actor; his talents superseded even the ones that were seen via television. I can say with confidence as I've been taught & scored intellectually amongst Chicago's best -- Nelsan was brilliant and had an incredible mind. As he dutifully expressed in front of students, partygoers, his family, friends & staff members of the esteemed Ebony magazine; we thank you Nelsan for 'making the earth quake ' with your time here; the impact of your departure was certainly felt worldwide.

Nelsan Ellis celebrates EBONY magazine cover in Chicago with D'Nero Group & members of Metro Family Organization of Calumet, Chicago White Sox

Proud to say I had not only time with him, but an opportunity to express and nurture a friendship through its ups and downs. This while simultaneously learning to show compassion for others as Nelsan always did. My professional acumen was enhanced because of our business dealings. Nelsan's disdain for my then immature attitude taught me to be a better man and handle difficult times differently, more eloquently such as he. Prayers to all his family I was blessed with the opportunity to spend quality time with, his son Breion, Papa Ellis, Uncle Eugene, his beautiful sisters, my brother Ronnel & a host of other friends family, and loved ones who cared about him. I thank God for the opportunity; I will love you forever Nels & never forget you. Sleep peacefully King, you will be dearly missed👑.

Nelsan Ellis Celebrated

Love Always, 

William Nero 
aka
WiL-Hemina La Reina

-He👑.
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