Joseph Robert Ellis

Joseph Robert Ellis Jr., 1955–2025

STEPHENVILLE, TEXAS – The world lost a true original with the passing of Joseph Robert Ellis Jr. on December 11, 2025, at the age of 70.

Joe was born in Waco, Texas, on November 26, 1955. Due to his size as a premature baby, his father, affectionately gave him the nickname, Skeeter. He would be known as Skeeter by family and close friends for the rest of his life.

Joe was known for his strong will and sense of humor and never met a stranger. He was a gifted mechanic. Specializing in muscle cars, his yard was his workspace. His favorite classic car was the Pontiac Trans Am.

Above all, Joe loved the Lord and his mama Betty. His faith was Church of God.

Joe is survived by his mother, Betty McInroe Ellis of Stephenville, cousin Steven Ray Loveless and wife Gwen of Wylie and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Robert Ellis Sr.; his grandmothers, Jewel Hickey McInroe of Stephenville and Helen Ellis Burrell of West Virginia; and his aunts: Nelda Loveless, Beverly Ann Willems, Maxine White, and Norma Cobb; and his uncle, Lee Roy McInroe.

A funeral service celebrating Joe’s life will be held on January 9, 2026 at 1:30 at Johnson Cemetery.