Chester Arthur Ellis Jr.

Chester Arthur Ellis Jr., age 74, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026.

Born on October 6, 1951, in Sardis, Mississippi, Chester was the beloved son of Claudia Mae Ellis and Chester Ellis Sr. He was raised in South Bend, Indiana, where he met the love of his life, Gloria Ellis. Together, they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout his life, he was affectionately known as “the uncle that did not play.”

Chester dedicated 20 years of his career to Coca-Cola before retiring. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, his faith was an important part of his life and guided him in his love for family, service, and others. His commitment to hard work, family, and service left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

His nieces and nephews lovingly knew him as “Uncle Chet,” “Uncle June,” and “Uncle Billy.” He enjoyed cooking, was a smooth two-step dancer, and had a gift for offering wisdom and honest advice. Family and friends will remember him for always “keeping it real” and for being a thoughtful, wise, and calculated man.

Chester leaves behind to cherish his memory his three loving children, whom he adored: Dawn Ellis, Tacuma (Michele) Ellis, and Chester Arthur Ellis III. He was also the proud grandfather of fourteen grandchildren who were very dear to his heart: Chester, Erika, Shaquile, JaLien, Kane, Niya, Olajuwon, Carmelo, Cheyenne, Tristan, Alyssa, Caleb, Alexa, and Devon, all of whom brought him great joy. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Danaya “Jelly”, Aylayra, Aeiribella, Hazel, Sienne, and Ny’ema. Chester is survived by two siblings, Janeth “Lisa” White and Teria (Ronnie) Jones; his very special nephew, Kyle Brown; special friends Kevin, Linda, and Ed; a host of nieces and nephews; and two maternal aunts, Pearl Wells and Irevia Lewis.

Chester was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Ellis; his mother, Claudia Mae Ellis; his father, Chester Arthur Ellis Sr.; and six siblings: Kathlyn Ellis, Verna “Bonnie” Batteast, Gretchen Ellis, Carmen Ellis, Glenn Ellis, and Willie Hubbard Sr.

A memorial service will be held on June 27, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness, 26807 US 20 South Bend, In 46628.

Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer Chapel 17033 Cleveland Rd., South Bend, IN 46635 is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be made at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Though Chester is no longer with us in body, his love, kindness, and legacy will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“Forever remembered, forever loved.”

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