Robert Allen Ellis, Sr. of Irving passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the age of 61. He was born on Thursday, June 11, 1964 in Hillsboro, IL, a son of the late Earl and Joanne (Finke) Ellis.
Robert was a hard worker from an early age, a quality he learned from watching his own dad who was a farmer. He had many jobs throughout his life, one of his first being working for a farmer. He also worked at Highland Supply Corporation in Highland, IL for over 20 years and Dometic in Litchfield, IL for 10 years.
Robert married Julie (Adams) Jones in 1989 in Paducah, KY. They went on to have two children, Robert "Bobby" and Kayla, and were married for 15 years.
Robert spent the majority of his life being better known as Shorty, a nickname given to him by his dad. He enjoyed all things outdoors, but he especially loved camping and fishing. He was always ready to ride one of his toys, whether it be a golf cart, four-wheeler, side by side, or his Jeep. Robert was always making people laugh because of his incredible sense of humor and goofiness. He was a lover of country music, but his favorite was older country, including Hank Williams and Conway Twitty.
Robert is survived by his son, Bobby (fiancée, Jena), and grandchildren, Kaidynce, Brody, Kambrie, Kasen, and Cash, all of Coffeen, IL; his daughter, Kayla (fiancé Lucas) and grandson, Tristan, all of Auburn, IL. He is survived by siblings, Barbara (Randy) White of Fillmore, IL, Edwin (Melissa) Ellis of Durham, MO, Marie Wilson (partner Francis Hobbs) of Edinburg, IL, and Keith (James) Ellis of Hillsboro, IL. He also leaves behind many nieces and great nieces, nephews and great nephews, cousins and friends who love and will forever miss him.
In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Sue Ellis and grandsons, Layton Allen and Kasten Robert Ellis.
A gathering to honor and celebrate Robert's life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Irving Century House in Irving, IL. We invite all who knew and loved Robert to join us in honoring his memory. Burial will follow at Irving Cemetery.
Kravanya Funeral Home is in charge.