Phillip Marlin Ellis, age 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Haven Hall Nursing Facility in Brookhaven, MS. He was born February 18, 1950 in Attala County to Marlin and Maggie Ellis.

At age five or six, Mr. Ellis was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Regarding his formal education, Mr. Ellis was placed in special education programming where he learned to read and write. He loved to read his bible and complete word searches and dot-to-dot books. His favorite snacks were Crunch n Munch and taffy. He enjoyed his time to himself, but also enjoyed going out to eat and shopping on occasion. He lived a simple life, but he was well aware of the things that brought him the most joy. He always looked forward to calls and visits from his brother. Until recently, he usually celebrated his birthday every year by going out to eat with his brother and his preferred staff and friend, Rhonda Graves.

Mr. Ellis was admitted to Boswell Regional Center (BRC) Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disability (ICF/IID) on August 1, 1989, then admitted to Pinelake on June 24, 2014, due to escalating medical issues. Mr. Ellis transferred to Wesson Geriatric/Oakwood Home on July 16, 2015. Due to declining health, and recurring episodes of pneumonia, Mr. Ellis was transferred to Haven Hall Nursing Facility on September 24, 2024 where he could receive physical therapy and 24-hour nursing care.

His parents, Marlin and Maggie Ellis, preceded him in death.

His brother, Mitch Ellis, and his sister-in-law, Caffie Ellis, survive him. He is also survived by his niece, Mandie Ellis Fraser (Peter) and their children.