Diane Ellis 68, Accident Pleasantville, PA Obituary and Death – Retail Industry Mourns Former Executive

Diane M. Ellis, a respected retail executive and former president and CEO of several major American retail companies, died suddenly at the age of 68 on Friday, August 14, 2026, following a car accident near her summer home in Pennsylvania.

Ellis, who lived in Estero, Florida, and also had ties to Pleasantville and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, leaves behind a distinguished career and a wide circle of family, friends and professional colleagues.

Distinguished Retail Career

Born February 9, 1958, in Aspinwall, Pennsylvania, Diane was the daughter of the late Vincent P. and Evelyn Hanlon. She graduated from Fox Chapel High School in 1976 before continuing her education at Chatham University.

Her professional career included more than a decade as Director of Retail Strategy at PriceWaterhouseCoopers in New York before she became a founding partner of Lighthouse Retail Group.

She later served as President and COO of Brooks Brothers, working with the Del Vecchio family for six years. During that period, she helped strengthen the company’s retail relationships and contributed to its partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

In 2013, Ellis joined The Limited Group in New Albany, Ohio, where she served as CEO and President through 2016. She subsequently became Brand President of Chico’s in Fort Myers, Florida.

Her accomplishments earned further recognition when she was named one of the Top 3 Power Players Shaping the Future of Retail by the National Retail Federation in 2018.

Remembered Beyond the Executive Suite

Those who knew Diane personally remembered her for qualities that extended far beyond her professional achievements.

A tribute shared following her death described her as “simply a wonderful human being” and one of the best people the writer had ever known and worked with.

Diane cherished her family, friendships, travel, gardening, pets, concerts, art festivals and gatherings around a home-cooked meal. In retirement, she also embraced her role as “Grandma Di” to her grandchildren, Owen and Amelia.

She married John W. Ellis Jr. on August 8, 2009, and he survives her.

Family and Memorial Plans

Diane is survived by her husband, three stepchildren, two step-grandchildren, her brother, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other loved ones.

The family has announced that there will be no public visitation. Celebrations of Diane’s life are expected to take place in both Pittsburgh and Estero, with dates to be announced.

Arrangements are under the direction of Norman J. Wimer Funeral Home in Tionesta.

Diane Ellis leaves behind a legacy of leadership, friendship, family devotion and service. Her influence on the retail industry and the many people who knew her will continue to be remembered.