Janice Ellis

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Janice May Ellis of Neosho, Missouri, passed away on August 24, 2023, following a fierce 22-month battle with cancer. She was an amazing person who touched many lives. 

A proud NAVY wife for 24 years, she served as Ombudsman for the U.S.S. Bolster from 1991-1993. A fearless adventurer, she lived life to the fullest. 

Whether it was crossing a volcano in Hawaii, a 5k, learning to drive on the Southern California freeways, or driving a school bus in South Carolina, she was always on the go. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Goodman, Missouri. 

She was born December 2, 1957, in Joplin, Missouri, to Harold and Beulah Maxine Grunden. She is preceded in death by both parents, five brothers, and one sister. 

She is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Clifford M. Ellis, Jr., as well as her children. Son, John Ellis; daughter and son-in-law, Brandy and Vernon Perdew; and daughter, Misty Franklin. She was a beloved Nano to 7 grandchildren. Angel Vergara, Marissa DiNoto, Kaitlyn Ellis, Andrew Perdew, Dreama O'Neal, Orion Perdew and Lucas Friend. 

She was blessed with three great-grandchildren, Ravanna O'Neal, Athena Bever, and Lincoln DiNoto. She has one brother, Jimmy Grunden, and Connie Locke, her niece and best friend. Also, mother-in-law Darlene Ellis, sisters-in-law Alicia Wassenaar and Terry Cargile, and brother-in-law Wesley Ellis. She had numerous nephews, nieces, and greats. She had many friends, both near and far. 

Special thanks to LifeLine Pilots, who flew her over 100 times to Zion, IL, for treatment. Any donations will be given to them in her name. She will be missed terribly by so many who loved her. Fly high, our little J-Bird; we will see you soon. Visitation will begin at 12:00, and a memorial service will be at 1:00 on September 5, 2023, at Goodman First Baptist Church in Goodman, MO.

Online condolences may be posted at www.clarkfuneralhomes.com. Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.