James L. Ellis, Sr., age 85, widow of Mary “Frances” (Lyons) Ellis, of Lexington died Tuesday January 13, 2026, at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, KY. Born March 26, 1940, in Casey County, KY to the late Raymond Carlisle and Mary (Luster) Ellis. He was a member of Durbin Memorial Baptist Church and retired from Paul Miller Ford as a Mechanic. James enjoyed fishing, camping, working on vehicles and playing cards.

He is survived by four daughters: Laurie Ellis Jones, Angie (Randy) Dixon and Betty Sue Jennette all of Lexington, KY, and Sandy Ellis of Lancaster, KY; one son: James "Jimmy" (Susie) Ellis Jr. of Lexington, KY; three sisters: Betty M. Followell of Boyle County, KY, Rita (Alan) Pierce of Lexington, KY and Darlene (Donny) Tipton of Nicholasville, KY; his special friend: Lois Schlernitzauer; ten grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

He is preceded in death by, his wife Frances Ellis, brother, Robert C. Ellis, great great grandchild, and two son in laws: Lewis Jones and Chuck Jennette.

The funeral will be at 1pm on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Ransdell Funeral Chapel, 345 E. Lexington Street, Harrodsburg, KY with Brother Dwayne Walker, who is officiating. Burial will follow in Tanyard Taylor-Clarkson Cemetery, Forkland KY. Visitation will be Monday, January 19, 2026, from 5pm-8pm at Ransdell Funeral Chapel, 345 East Lexington Street, Harrodsburg, KY 40330.

Pallbearers: James R. Garrett, David Ellis, James L. Ellis III, Christopher Dixon, Tony Jennette, Alex Jennette and John Jennette. Honorary Pallbearers: Shonda Kindle, Beth Watkins and Tiffany Keaton.

Memorials are suggested to be made to Woodford County Animal Shelter, 265 Thomas Ln, Versailles, KY 40383.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family on James's Tribute Wall at www.ransdellfuneralchapel.com.