Robert Earl Ellis

Robert Earl "Bobby" Ellis, 68, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, Missouri. He was born on January 21, 1957, in Sedalia, the son of William Allen Ellis and Francis (Smith) Ellis, who preceded him in death.

On February 13, 1988, in Sedalia, Missouri, Bobby was united in marriage to Helen Patricia "Patsy" Ellis, who preceded him in death on June 10, 2012.

Bobby was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1975. Following high school, he worked at Derby Gas Station, bartender at the Bud Bar on Main Street in Sedalia, and Rival Manufacturing before beginning handyman work alongside Bill Hammerly. Bobby was especially known for his talent in painting and finish construction work, skills he took great pride in throughout his life.

Bobby enjoyed fishing, camping, and barbecuing, especially family bar-be-cue gatherings. When his children were young, he and Patsy would often chase the school bus after school to take the kids fishing, memories that remain treasured by his family. Bobby also had a fond love for his coffee from Scooter's, which became his latest daily indulgence. He cherished the companionship of his beloved dog, Hobbie.

Bobby is survived by seven children: Lukas Ellis and Sherri Miller, both of Sedalia; David Wirtz (Donna) and Jonathan Wirtz, both of Sedalia; Mary VanWagner (Roger) of Dixon, Missouri; Matthew Wirtz of Stover, Missouri; and Willard Wirtz (Tricia) of Stover, Missouri. He is also survived by thirty grandchildren, including Rachel Wirtz, Duane Hansen, Tiffany Hansen, Christopher Hansen, Tricia Cornine, Phelicia Shepherd, Skylar Ellis, and Elijah Ellis; thirty-three great-grandchildren; a brother, Chris Ellis (Ann) of Sedalia; and nieces and nephews, Karen, William, Jenny, and Chrisman Ellis.

In addition to his wife and parents, Bobby was preceded in death by a son, Monty Ellis, and a grandson, Jonathan Eade.

A celebration of life gathering with family and friends will be held from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel.

Honorary bearers will be Constance Cornine, Kevin Lee, Derek Wirtz, William Savage, Zander Cornine, and Willard Wirtz, Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.