Jimmie James Ellis, Sr., 80, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at his home. He was born November 20, 1936 in Milledgeville, Georgia to James Ellis and Mary Archer.

Jimmie earned his GED, Graduate Equivalency Diploma and also graduated from the RCA Institutes where he earned a certificate of Home Study Course in Basic Electronics in 1968. He was a Jack of All Trades, skilled in carpentry, plumbing, electrical and auto mechanics. He was a backup singer and guitar player in a local Topeka band “The Rockin’ Whalers” who were popular in the 1950’s and 60’s, but he was also talented enough to play all the instruments. He attended the Shawnee Meadows Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Topeka, KS.

Jimmie married Rhoda Marie Washington on April 3rd, 1960. She preceded him in death on March 1, 2004. He was also preceded in death by one daughter (the baby), Renita Rochelle Ellis on August 10, 2014.

Survivors include:
Children: Rhonda Ellis, Rena Ellis, Rolanda Ellis and Rita Ellis (spouse Luther Eison) all of Topeka KS, Jimmy J. Ellis Jr., (spouse Karen) of Kansas City MO.
Grandchildren: Tiara Puck, Asia Puck of Topeka KS, and Matthew Ellis, Michael Ellis, Samuel Ellis of Kansas City MO.
Great-Grandchildren: Rhys Puck, Lucinda Coleman, Damian Puck-Smith of Topeka KS.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 29th at 1:30 PM, Central Park Community Center, 1534 SW Clay, Topeka, KS 66604.

Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel is assisting the family. To leave the family a special message, please select the Share Memories option listed above.