Jack Payne Ellis, 83, passed away peacefully Sept. 10, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society–Liberal.
Jack was born July 2, 1943, in Danville, Ill. to James Payne Ellis and Leslie Elizabeth Ellis (Hansbrough).
After graduating from Community R-VI High School near Laddonia, Mo., he worked in farming before proudly serving in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967. He served as a cook aboard the USS Arneb, USS Hickman County, and USS Iwo Jima. He received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.
In 1968, Jack met Evelyn Marie Clarke, the love of his life. They married in 1969, built their family near Laddonia, and moved to Liberal in 1979. Jack worked in agribusiness and was known as a true Jack-of-all-trades – an avid tinkerer who could fix nearly anything and was always willing to help.
Above all, Jack was devoted to his family. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren, enjoyed celebrating their accomplishments, and loved following their activities. He also enjoyed watching sports and cheering for his favorite teams.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, James Leslie Ellis and Jerry Warren Ellis.
He is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn Ellis, Liberal; his children: Annette Gregory and husband, Roger, Houston, Texas, Jarrett Ellis, Erie, Colo., and Michael Ellis and wife, Tiffany, Arlington, Va.; and five grandchildren: Collin and Evan Gregory, Norah Ellis, and Lillian and Wesley Ellis. He is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Jack will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his ability to fix almost anything, his love of sports, and his enduring devotion to his family.
• Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 at Arnold Funeral Home in Mexico, Mo. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m., and burial will follow the service at East Lawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Foundation in memory of Jack Ellis, GSS–Liberal, KS.
Condolences may be left at www.arnoldfh.com.
Paid obituary
