Ellis Lee Jones

In Loving Memory of Ellis "Lee" Jones
Born in Tennessee | Passed in Lafayette, IN on April 13 | Age 82
Ellis Lee Jones, lovingly known to everyone as "Lee," passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025 at University Place, Lafayette, IN at the age of 82. Born in Tennessee, Lee's journey led him to Stockwell, Indiana at the young age of six.
On October 19, 1963, Lee married the love of his life, Janet, and together they built a family and a legacy of kindness, generosity, and dedication in Romney, IN. A proud electrician by trade, Lee completed his apprenticeship early in life and went on to work at Eli Lilly until his retirement. In the early 1970s, Lee transferred to the Clinton Eli Lilly labs. It was here that his love of bowling led to the establishment of Paradise Bowl-where he was a founding partner-a place that brought joy to so many, just like Lee himself.
Lee was known for his deep commitment to helping others, especially through his years as an avid blood and platelet donor. His selfless spirit earned him recognition as a 3-gallon donor, a milestone that speaks volumes about the kind of man he was.
A true lover of life's simple pleasures, Lee found joy in mushroom hunting for morels every spring, barbecuing on sunny afternoons, tending his vegetable garden, and preparing his famous bagna calda for friends and family. Later in life, Lee developed a huge sweet tooth. He could never pass up a good dessert, and ice cream was his ultimate favorite! He also loved watching the Indy 500, playing golf and bowling with his son Mark, spending time with his grandson Christian, and sharing birthday celebrations with his daughter Angie.
Lee also had a passion for travel and adventure. He loved exploring new places and made treasured memories on trips to Ireland-where the green hills and friendly spirit made a lasting impression-and Las Vegas, a favorite getaway filled with fun, lights, and laughter.
Lee always had a tune on his lips-whether whistling a melody or suddenly bursting into song. His spontaneous serenades brought smiles, laughs, and a certain rhythm to everyday moments that will never be forgotten. Lee's warmth and humor left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His steady presence, friendly smile, and knack for storytelling will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of calling him friend or family.
He is survived by his children Angie (Toby) and Mark (Kathryn), his beloved grandson Christian, who was the light of his life and his sister-in-law Carolyn Blue. Lee was preceded in death by his wife Janet, daughter Jennifer, parents Hilva and Manda Jones, and sisters Reba Runyan, Ruby Garrett, and Jean Rosenbrook, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:30 am with service beginning at 11:30 at Romney United Methodist Church, where Lee was a member and former Trustee.
Burial will immediately follow the service at Elmwood Cemetery in Romney.
In honor of Lee's love for Purdue, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite Purdue gear. If you cannot attend, please raise a glass and toast to a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lee's memory can be made to a charity of your choice-just as he would have liked.