Obituary
Rodney Ellis
Aug 7, 1953 – Feb 21, 2025
Submitted by Glen Ellis · Oct 3, 2026 8:07pm CDT
Rodney Ellis, 71 of Drexel, Missouri passed away February 21, 2025 at Anthology of Olathe in Olathe, Kansas. Cremation with private family services. Arrangements entrusted to Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel Chapel (816-657-4400). Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com
Rodney Edward Ellis was born on August 7, 1953, in Aurora, IL, Rod spent most of his life in Drexel, MO, alongside his beloved wife, Joyce (Baseley) Ellis, who preceded him in death on June 1, 2023.
Rod possessed a natural intelligence that was extraordinary. His self-taught expertise led him to a successful career in the high-tech industry, where he became a valued contributor to companies such as Gateway 2000, EDS, Midwest Research Institute, Sprint and Bank of America.
But Rod’s talents weren’t confined to his career - his voice was just as powerful as his mind. A gifted singer, he performed professionally on radio, television, music festivals, and local churches. As a published author, he used his voice to teach survival skills by wrapping them in fictional adventures. This was a testament to both his intellect and his desire to help others.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rod and Joy shared a deep love for animals, especially cats in need of special care. Their passion led to the creation of Warm Fuzzy’s, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for cats that others had cast aside. Their love gave these animals a second chance at life.
Rod had a deep compassion for the unhoused, believing everyone deserves warmth, dignity, and provision. His greatest hope was that his nieces and nephews would continue feeding the hungry, clothing those in need, and never turning away from those who struggle.
Rod is survived by his two sons, Timothy and Logan Ellis, and will be deeply missed by his siblings: Brad (Debbie) Ellis, Terry Rainey, Claudia Vanderpool, Wendy Niccoli, Glen (Nancy) Ellis, and Jennifer Galichia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glendon Jack Ellis and Maxine Marguerite (Foote) Ellis.
Rod had a brilliant mind, a generous spirit, and a heart that made the world a better place. His influence will live on through the knowledge he shared, the lives he touched, and the acts of kindness he inspired.
Rodney Edward Ellis was born on August 7, 1953, in Aurora, IL, Rod spent most of his life in Drexel, MO, alongside his beloved wife, Joyce (Baseley) Ellis, who preceded him in death on June 1, 2023.
Rod possessed a natural intelligence that was extraordinary. His self-taught expertise led him to a successful career in the high-tech industry, where he became a valued contributor to companies such as Gateway 2000, EDS, Midwest Research Institute, Sprint and Bank of America.
But Rod’s talents weren’t confined to his career - his voice was just as powerful as his mind. A gifted singer, he performed professionally on radio, television, music festivals, and local churches. As a published author, he used his voice to teach survival skills by wrapping them in fictional adventures. This was a testament to both his intellect and his desire to help others.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rod and Joy shared a deep love for animals, especially cats in need of special care. Their passion led to the creation of Warm Fuzzy’s, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for cats that others had cast aside. Their love gave these animals a second chance at life.
Rod had a deep compassion for the unhoused, believing everyone deserves warmth, dignity, and provision. His greatest hope was that his nieces and nephews would continue feeding the hungry, clothing those in need, and never turning away from those who struggle.
Rod is survived by his two sons, Timothy and Logan Ellis, and will be deeply missed by his siblings: Brad (Debbie) Ellis, Terry Rainey, Claudia Vanderpool, Wendy Niccoli, Glen (Nancy) Ellis, and Jennifer Galichia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glendon Jack Ellis and Maxine Marguerite (Foote) Ellis.
Rod had a brilliant mind, a generous spirit, and a heart that made the world a better place. His influence will live on through the knowledge he shared, the lives he touched, and the acts of kindness he inspired.
