Phillip Dean Ellis, 87, of Kingston, TN, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, lovingly surrounded by family.

Phil was born on September 25, 1938, in Detroit, MI, to Harold Cissell and Helen Cosby Ellis. He graduated from Pershing High School in 1957, attended the Detroit Institute of Technology, and later enlisted in the Army National Guard, serving as a Field Communications Crewman.

Phil always kept busy and believed deeply in the power of education, both formal and self-taught. He earned his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1985 while working full time, a reflection of his dedication to learning. Phil retired at age 58 from Lucent Technologies, after which he and Marilyn spent ten years traveling the United States in their RV, accompanied by their golden retriever and two cats, years they treasured deeply. In their later retirement years, Phil and Marilyn settled in quiet, rural Kingston, TN, where they cared for pet goats, dogs, and cats. Phil fully embraced the role, jokingly referring to himself as the original “old goat.”

He was a proud Mason for many years and later found fellowship and purpose in supporting the American Legion Post 120 in Loudon, TN.

Married for 56 years to Marilyn Bell (Jones), Phil will be remembered for his deep curiosity and love of gadgets. He delighted in taking things apart simply to understand how they worked. A lifelong learner, he encouraged his daughters to pursue education and never stopped reminding them that they could accomplish anything they wanted in life. He approached every day with a warm, and sometimes silly, sense of humor that endeared him to all who knew him. You could count on Phil to put a smile on your face.

Phil’s legacy is carried on by his wife, Marilyn Ellis; daughters Kristin Menefee (Joe), Kim Ellis, and Kara Ellis; and grandchildren Kelsey Menefee-Baker (Samuel), Allyson Menefee, Daniel Menefee, and Kaylee Ellis Murphy. His later years brought new connections, especially Ann Roderer (Kleman), who was welcomed into the family as a daughter, along with her sons, Alec Roderer and Ashton Roderer. Phil is also remembered by his brother, Jed Ellis (Mary Ann); and nieces and nephews Debbie Cameron (Cam), Amie Thon (Tom), Bob Edmundson (Bonnie), Michael Edmundson (Margaret), Chris Edmundson (Terry), and James Ellis (Colleen). He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Helen Ellis, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Rick Julian and the members of American Legion Post 120 (Louden, TN) for their kindness and support.

In keeping with Phil’s wishes, the family will not be holding a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Legion.

American Legion Post 120
10769 Lee Hwy
Louden, TN 37774
ATTN: Kate Duffy, Commander
 

Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston is honored to serve the Ellis family.