February 12, 2024, 42, La Grange —

August 2, 1981 – February 12, 2024

Michael Kirby Ellis, Jr. unexpectedly passed away on February 12, 2024, at home. He was born in Wayne County to Michael Kirby “Mike” Ellis, Sr. and Joan Alphin Ellis on August 2, 1981. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, William Norwood Alphin and Kirby Ellis, Jr.

With a love of nature and the outdoors, Michael found peace and comfort whenever he was in the woods or a field. Nothing made him happier than being on a tractor or combine. Farming was in his blood.

Second to that it was hunting. Whether it would be deer or ducks he loved to be in the woods. If he was not, you would likely see him outside in the yard cleaning his truck or just simply working outside.

Michael had a knack for tearing things apart and putting them back together. He was a master of the grill and could cook barbecued chicken, smoked ribs, and hamburgers second to none. His family always looked forward to Michael’s cooking because they knew exactly what was in store. He always loved to try and cook new recipes.

The most important thing in Michael’s life was his family. He held the keys to his mama’s heart and was his Pop’s and Ben’s best bud. Ashley was the wife God created specifically for Michael, and the two built a marriage of love and friendship. No love came close to what he felt for his baby girl, Jordan. In his eyes, she held the sun, the moon, and the stars. Despite time or distance, Jordan will always be daddy’s girl and he will always be her “Bubba”.

A service of remembrance will be held at Rouse Funeral Home on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 11 a.m., with committal following at Fairview Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10-10:45 a.m. before the service, as well as at other times at the home of his parents.

In addition to his parents, Michael is survived by his wife of eleven years, Ashley Lanier Ellis; daughter, Jordan Ryann Ellis; step-daughter, Paige; step-son Payten; step-grandson, Eli; brother, Ben Ellis and wife, Amanda; grandmothers, Geraldine Alphin and Mary Ann Denton; nieces, Allie Grace and Lilly Gray Ellis and their family dog, Roxie.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.