Francis Adrian Ellis
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Our most gracious Lord and Savior called Francis Adrian Ellis home on November 10th, 2018 in Lawrence, Kansas. Francis, 87, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus and onto the wings of angels as he transitioned from the physical world into heaven’s paradise.
Francis was born to Opal Irene (Ramsey) and Thomas Ellis on January 19th, 1931 in Pittsburg, Kansas. Francis was a pillar of strength and example for sisters Margie and Mervyl, and younger brother, Ron. This pillar of strength would continue to be the glue that kept our family together over the next 87 years.
Francis was a true American hero as he fought for his country during the Korean War, serving in the United States Navy. Though a man of few words, he was always proud to share his experiences during his time in the service, especially on the USS Pawcatuck, where he worked as a machinist’s mate 3.
His beautiful blue eyes, sweet dimples, and servant’s heart led him into the arms of Colleen Nease, as they joined in union on December 26th, 1953. Francis and Colleen would be celebrating 65 years of love and companionship this December. With God’s grace and guidance, they welcomed two beautiful children into world, Gregory and Glenda.
Francis worked hard to provide for his family guiding him into a career with KOAM Radio and Television in Pittsburg, Kansas. His admirable work ethic and dedicated spirit often meant that he had to work long hours, never once complaining. By 1964, his most precious little girl made a request that Francis couldn’t refuse, she asked her Daddy for weekends off so that he could take her to Sunday school. This request from a tiny little girl, would bring the Ellis family to Lawrence, Kansas beginning a lifelong membership with the First Christian Church. As the family put their roots down, Francis would begin a career at the University Of Kansas School Of Journalism. To this day, his students still remember the kind and gentle nature that he possessed in his teachings. Francis kept the true reason for their move to Lawrence very close to his heart, only recently sharing that he wanted to take his baby girl to Sunday school. That was the kind of man Francis was. His selflessness to provide for others, no matter the cost and trusting that God had a plan for his life.
Francis is survived by his lifelong love, Colleen. His daughter, Glenda and husband, Leo. Daughter in law Lisa, and grandchildren, Lindsay, Callee (Jeff), Austin (Haley) and Jeremiah. Sister, Mervyl (Jim) Stafford of Pittsburg, Kansas and brother, Ron, of San Francisco, California.
Francis was proceeded in death by his parents, sister, Margie, and his son, Gregory.
To the world he was Francis but to us he was “My Love,” “Daddy,” “Grampy,” and “Bamps,” the magnitude of his specialness could never be described in one short entry. The man was a force of nature and he will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. Though we are mourning the loss of this amazing man, we rejoice in knowing that his purpose was fulfilled and he’s enjoying the Promised Land that God envisions for all of us. Francis knew his creator and witnessed to those that were willing to listen to his journey, he prayed for those that were wayward in their faith, and remained a pillar of hope for those that were searching for their redeemer.
We encourage all who loved Bamps to attend a celebration of his life on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at First Christian Church (1000 Kentucky St.) in Lawrence, Kansas. The family will receive friends during the visitation at 9 a.m. with the service beginning at 10 a.m. A private family inurnment to follow.
Should the Lord guide you to provide memorial contributions, Francis has requested that you consider The Alpha Christian Children’s Home or to the First Christian Church and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary. Please no flowers.
We look forward to honoring our hero with one last sendoff joined by each and every one of you this Thursday!.
There are too many wonderful memories with Francis as a very best friend for probably 50 or more years. It is not possible for me to express the loss of a brother. Just let it be known Francis and I had a bond that many friends never get to experience. His spirit is still with me and that is that.
We know how much your Daddy meant to you, Glenda. Our peaceful heart wishes go to you, Leo, Callee, and Jeff. “Doc” Don and Paula Hatcher
Few people can really give you their full attention like Francis did. You felt immediately comfortable with him; and oh, his observations and conversations were astute and insightful. This world has lost a true Champion of Kindness.
Heartfelt condolences to you Colleen and family.It was a pleasure to know Francis, and it will be an honor to remember the memories of him that I have.
Colleen I am so sorry to hear the news. Hugs and prayers to you all during this difficult time. Love to you all ❤????❤
Cheri Ragland Ezell
Sorry to hear of the passing of this great man. Loved to visit his wife and him. He will be sorely missed.
Colleen, dear sweet friend… I am so sad to hear about Francis… What a wonderful life of memories. Love to your children . Prayers and love,
Sally and Kenn Ragland.
Donna and Larry Clark:
Colleen we were so pleased to have met Francis. Sorry we did not have more time
together. We do not know about this weather. In a few days when we find my phone we will give you a call. God bless you and your family.
Francis and Colleen usually sat in “our” row at church for many years. We’ll miss our Sunday evening chicken dinner outages. The past year became harder for him to go, but go we did. He never said “not this evening.” We’ll miss that gentle handshake when he got out of the car.
Many thanks for his friendship and service to our country. We will miss you!
Members of the Ellis Family:
As a former student (1975-77) of Francis, I thank you for sharing him with me and the hundreds of students who were enriched by his caring and devoted teaching. He was always positive, supportive and most willing to contribute to the educational experiences of his students. You were blessed to have him in your lives. So to, were we.
What a beautiful obituary about a man with wonderful priorities and testimony. I send my love and prayers to all of you, as your adjust and grieve.
Colleen, I am sorry to learn of the passing of Francis. In time, may you look beyond the sorrow of this hour and experience the beauty of the love that you and Francis shared that will last forever.
Colleen,
We send love to you and the family. Francis, who always looked so dapper and greeted us with a kind smile, will be greatly missed. ❤️
Colleen, I am so sorry to hear the news of Francis’ passing. We worked at KU together in Radio-TV for many years. The students would seek him out to work out this problem or that an always go away with a better understanding of their work.
Francis helped me through a lot of issues. We would talk a lot, about work and our “outside lives”. He was such a sweetie. It was such a pleasure to know him and work with him.
SIncere sympathy to you in the loss of FRancis, Colleen. You had many years together. Let the memories be a treasure to you. May God guide you through the difficult time of the loss of FRancis and Greg. A former neighbor on Chisholm Drive, Shirley Coulter