Steven Darrell Ellis

In Loving Memory of Steven Darrell Ellis
1953 - 2025
There are not enough words to capture the essence of a man as loving, charismatic, and generous as Steve. To say that he was remarkable would be an understatement; he was extraordinary in every sense of the word. A man of limitless talent, boundless intellect, and an immeasurable heart, Steve left an indelible mark on the world, one that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on October 24, 1953, in Charleston, West Virginia, Steve was raised in the warmth of a loving family in Belpre, Ohio, by his devoted parents, Charles Darrell Ellis and Joan Bailes Ellis. From an early age, he idolized his father, whose work at his avionics shop ignited Steve's lifelong passion for aviation. This fascination took flight in both his career and personal life, shaping him into a man whose love for the skies knew no bounds.
In 1965, at the age of 11, Steve moved to Vero Beach, Florida, where he would graduate from Vero Beach High School. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in software engineering from the University of Southern Mississippi, a testament to his keen intellect and dedication to excellence. Soon after, he embarked on a distinguished career with Raytheon in Texas, where he became a proud transplant Texan. After an impressive tenure, he continued his work in the aerospace industry, dedicating another decade to the F35 program at BAE. His sharp mind and expertise allowed him to contribute to cutting-edge technological advancements, yet his true joy remained in the freedom of flight.
Steve's love for aviation was more than a career-it was a calling. He and his brother, Chuck Ellis, shared a special bond, both building their own VAN's RV-4 airplanes, embodying the ingenuity and craftsmanship that defined him. His father's legacy lived on through him, as he continued to honor the love of flight instilled in him since childhood. While working in Washington, he fulfilled a dream of achieving his seaplane rating, embracing the thrill of landing on water and adding another chapter to his aviation adventures.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve was a man of many passions. He was an exceptional racquetball and baseball player, astonishing competitors with his ambidextrous skill-effortlessly switching between his right and left hands, while dominating the competition. His prowess in racquetball earned him the title of Mississippi State Champion, a testament to his dedication and natural athleticism.
A lover of the outdoors, he found solace and adventure in nature, making annual treks to the Grand Canyon to hike from rim to rim. Camping, a cherished tradition instilled by his parents, remained a lifelong love, often joining his love of aviation and camping by participating in fly-in camp outs. His love for sailing was yet another extension of his adventurous spirit. With an affinity for the open water, he found peace in the rhythmic dance of wind and sail. He had an innate understanding of the natural world, always advocating for the protection of even the fiercest predators, believing that all beings were simply trying to "make a living."
Steve's generosity knew no limits. Whether raising baby birds that had fallen out of his Martin birdhouses or offering his unwavering support to friends and loved ones, he embodied the true spirit of kindness. His warmth and humor endeared him to children, many of whom saw him as an uncle or grandfather figure. He was a cherished friend, a mentor, and a guiding light to so many.
He had an impeccable eye for detail and exquisite taste, meticulously researching before making any decision, whether it was a Lotus sports car, a Porsche 356, or one of the many fine collectibles he patiently sought out. A true connoisseur, he appreciated quality in all things and took great care in selecting only the finest.
Steve leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and excellence. He is survived by his devoted mother, Joan Bailes Ellis, his beloved sister, Carol Ellis Vann, and his niece, Darrell Robin Ellis. He also leaves behind a family not bound by blood but by the deep connections he forged throughout his life: his honorary son and daughter-in-law, William Kelley Jr. and his wife Haley; his honorary granddaughter, Addison; best friend Ellen Brotman and her grandchildren, Luke, Payton, and Chris Kallaher, whom Steve considered as his grandchildren; his honorary nephew, Brannon Ganas, and honorary nieces Cassidy Ganas and Gretchen Buse;
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Darrell Ellis; his brother, Charles (Chuck) David Ellis; and his nephews, Jason Michael Vann and Zachary Ellis Vann.
A public visitation will be held on Saturday, March 22, from 12 PM to 2 PM at the Azle Funeral Chapel on the grounds of Azleland Cemetery. Following the visitation, friends and loved ones are invited to a reception at Steve's home at Kezer Air Ranch, 102 McVoid Rd, Springtown, TX, where his extraordinary life will be celebrated in the company of those who loved him most. There will be a Celebration of Steve's Life Ceremony to be planned for this Spring at his home, with the date to be announced.
Steven Darrell Ellis was a man who soared through life with passion, intellect, and an unmatched generosity of spirit. His brilliance, humor, and boundless kindness will never be forgotten. His memory will live on in the skies he loved, the lives he touched, and the many stories that will be told of a man who was, in every way, truly extraordinary
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