Joyce Ann "Thompson" Ellis

Joyce Ann "Thompson" Ellis obituary, Washington, MO

Joyce Ann "Thompson" Ellis

Joyce Ellis Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Wilson Mortuary - Salem on Feb. 4, 2026.
Joyce Ann (Thompson) Ellis, born June 1, 1947, in Ellsinore, Missouri, passed away February 3, 2026, in Washington, Missouri at the age of seventy-eight years.

Joyce was one of two daughters born to James and Lois (Riggins) Thompson. She grew up in Salem and graduated from Salem High School. On July 7, 1977, Joyce was united in marriage to Floyd Franklin Ellis. They shared forty-five years creating lasting memories together before his passing October 30, 2022.

Joyce was the proud mother of two sons: Richard and Michael. Her beloved grandsons: Rick, Cody, and Sam were her world and she adored her great-grandchildren: Xaiver, Zane, Avacyn, and Rayven. Some of her fondest memories were time spent with her family and friends. As of late, she enjoyed dressing up, going out on the town and eating out with her special friend, Dave.

Joyce was a pillar of strength, dedicating her life to working hard and providing for her family. She worked for many years at the Chrysler Plant in St. Louis and retired from the Von Weise Gear Company in St. Clair. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, quilting, and putting together puzzles.

Joyce was a precious lady who loved the Lord. She showed this love to her family and everyone she met. Joyce loved praising God, singing hymns, and was a member at the First Assembly of God Church in Owensville. For several years she taught a toddlers Sunday School Class and everyone in church called her grandma. Her favorite scripture was 2 Corinthians 5:8, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord."

Joyce is survived by her sons: Richard Christian of Rosebud, MO and Michael Christian and wife Cathy of Rosebud, MO; grandsons: Rick, Cody, and Sam Christian; great-grandchildren: Xaiver, Zane, Avacyn, and Rayven; other relatives and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were her husband: Floyd Ellis, parents: James and Lois (Riggins) Thompson; and her sister: Sue Cover.

Joyce was a spitfire, go getter, and full of love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her dearly. She will be forever missed.

Funeral Services were held February 7, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Les Dority officiating. Serving as Pallbearers were Michael Christian, Cody Christian, Sam Christian, and Rick Christian. Burial was in the Stone Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Joyce to Stone Hill Cemetery and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available.

Condolences may be left online at her tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Wilson Mortuary - Salem

1000 West Scenic Rivers Blvd. Post Office Box 45, Salem, MO 65560

Make a Donation
in Joyce Ellis's name

How to support Joyce's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Joyce Ellis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Joyce Ellis's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?