Ellen Cohen Alweis of Billings, Montana, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026. She lived a life defined by generosity, kindness, compassion, and an unwavering love for family and community.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1942 to Milton and Ruth Cohen, Ellen grew up surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong family friends. Those close family connections became the foundation of her life. As an adult, she created a home where everyone felt welcome, cared for, and included. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing wise advice, or preparing a meal, Ellen always made room for one more at the table.

Ellen met her husband, Don Alweis, at the University of Denver in 1960. They married in 1962 and began their life together in Dallas, Texas, while she finished her degree at Southern Methodist University. In 1966, Don, Ellen & their infant son Sheldon moved to Billings where they soon expanded their family and established deep roots.

Ellen quickly emerged as a leader, volunteer, and advocate for causes that strengthened the lives of children, women and the community. With remarkable energy and dedication, she contributed her time and talents to numerous organizations, including Congregation Beth Aaron, the Junior League (named Volunteer of the Year in 1977), the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities (ACLD), the Youth Court Advisory Committee, the Young Families Program, District #2 School Board, Growth Thru Art, Pamelia (a Montana opera), the Montana Women’s Foundation, the Montana Community Foundation, and the Yellowstone Art Museum, among many others. She believed deeply in giving back and worked tirelessly to make Billings a better place for generations to come.

In the 1990s, Ellen became more involved in the family clothing business, JASONS, serving as manager and buyer for the women’s department. She delighted in helping customers find clothing that made them feel confident and beautiful, welcoming shoppers from throughout Montana and neighboring states. Her love of fashion was matched only by her gift for connecting with people.

One of Ellen’s greatest qualities was her ability to be fully present with whomever she was with. She made people feel seen, heard, and valued. She found joy in tending her flower gardens, appreciating art, entertaining family and friends, and creating a warm and welcoming home.

Of all her accomplishments, Ellen’s most cherished role was that of mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Her family was the center of her life, and her love for them was boundless.

She leaves behind a lasting legacy through her family: her son, Sheldon Alweis (Nikki); her daughter, Jody Alweis; her granddaughters, Hilary Alweis (Mark Murphy Jr.) and Caitlin Alweis; and her great-grandsons, Bill and Paxton Murphy. She is also survived by her niece, Leba Hirsch and family; her nephew, Andy Cohen and family; her sister-in-law, Elaine Ziskind; and many beloved cousins, extended family members, and friends. Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth & Milton Cohen, husband, Don and brother, Jerry.

If you wish to honor Ellen’s memory (and in lieu of flowers), donations may be made to Congregation Beth Aaron, the Yellowstone Art Museum, the Montana Community Foundation, or a charitable organization of your choice.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 10:30am at Michelotti-Sawyers Funeral Home & Crematory, followed by a brief service at Beth Aaron Cemetery.