Rodney Lamar Ellis' Obituary
Rodney Lamar Ellis Sr., born on December 5, 1971, in Boynton Beach, Florida, to LaVonne Girtman Ellis and Ernest Lee Ellis, passed away on May 21, 2024. He left us with cherished memories of a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion.
Rodney’s early years were spent in Boynton Beach, where he attended Poinciana Elementary and Forest Park Elementary School, followed by Congress Middle School. He continued his education at a middle school in Palatka, FL, before returning to Boynton Beach to attend Santaluces Community High School in Lantana, FL. Rodney excelled in both football and basketball, graduating in 1992.
Rodney's athletic prowess earned him a spot at Kings River Community College in Reedley, CA, where he played standout football and achieved an A.A. degree. His talent on the field led to a full scholarship to Montana State University in Bozeman, MT, where he competed in the Big Sky Conference. One of his treasured memories was playing against his brother, Stacey Sr., who attended Northern Arizona University, within the same conference.
After his collegiate years, Rodney returned to Florida and embarked on a career in adult and juvenile corrections. Later, he found his true calling as an over-the-road truck driver. Rodney worked for several notable companies, including Cheney Brothers, Pepsi, Walpole, Sharp Transit, Martin Brower, and UNFI. His journey eventually led him to East Coast Farms, where he felt he had finally found his trucking family. His dedication, loyalty, and hard work were evident in every role he undertook.
Rodney was known for his vibrant personality and zest for life. He was the heart and soul of every family gathering, church function, party, or get-together. Rodney's infectious energy and genuine love for those around him made him a beloved figure to all who knew him. He had a passion for playing cards, video games, watching movies, and most of all, singing. His voice and spirit brought joy to countless moments.
Above all, Rodney deeply loved his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Milagros Ellis; his children, Tiana Ellis, Rodney Ellis Jr. (RJ), Christopher Aponte, and Mia Rivera; his beloved grandson, Kyrie Hanlan; his mother, LaVonne Girtman Ellis; his brother, Stacey Ellis Sr., his wife, Saide Ellis, and their sons, Stacey Ellis Jr. and Shaqai Ellis; and his sister, Melinda Ellis. Rodney also leaves behind his aunts, Cynthia Girtman and Robyn Boucard; uncles, Mervyn Girtman and Carl Boucard; and a host of cousins, including Dawne Girtman, Terrence Dowdell, Angel Monique Davis, Tina Adams, Wayne Girtman, Duane Boucard, Marlon Boucard, Brittany Boucard-Sanon, Marcus Girtman, Justin Girtman, and Ashley Girtman. His extended family of nieces, nephews, classmates, coaches, teachers, and friends will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.
Rodney’s legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to his family and friends will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
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