Leota Ellis

Leota "Lee" Ellis, née Wiles, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the age of 93. Born on November 20, 1932, in Weeks, Arkansas, she lived a long and full life rooted in faith, family, and enduring love.

Lee was one of twelve children born to W.C. and America Wiles. Raised in a close-knit household grounded in Christian values, she carried those principles throughout her life. A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, she was most recently a devoted member of Swartz Church of Christ. Her faith was a guiding light—she read her Bible daily and remained steadfast in her beliefs.

Professionally, Lee retired from J.P. Morgan Chase where she worked as a Mortgage Underwriter Assistant. She was respected by her colleagues for her dedication and work ethic and formed lasting friendships during her career.

Family was the cornerstone of Lee's life. She cherished time spent with her siblings, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She instilled in her family the importance of togetherness and created a legacy centered on love and connection. Her home was often filled with laughter during games of Mexican Train or Phase 10, or quiet moments as she worked through puzzle books from the comfort of her favorite chair.

Lee is survived by her sister Joan Ann Correro of West Monroe; three children: Pam Peters of Baton Rouge; Jackie Duncan and husband Tommy Duncan of Houston; and Chris Moffet of Stephenville; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who were all touched by her warmth and wisdom.

She was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers and three sisters; two beloved husbands—Alford Phillips and Huey Ellis; and her son Michael Phillips.

Throughout her life, Lee was deeply loved—not only by family but also by friends from church, former coworkers, and the compassionate caregivers at Landmark of Baton Rouge who came to know her well.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May it bring comfort to those who mourn her passing while celebrating the remarkable life she lived.