01/22/2026
Graveside services for Guy Kenner Ellis, Jr., age 84, of Onalaska, Wisconsin, and formerly of Greenville, MS, will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Lexington, MS under the direction of Boone Funeral Home, Greenville. A funeral service will be held at Fossum Funeral and Cremation, Onalaska, WI, at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.
The second child of his parents, Kenner was born on August 29, 1941, in Greenville, Mississippi, to Guy K. Ellis, Sr., and Ellanor B. (nee Ho**er) Ellis. Kenner graduated from Greenville High School and spent one year attending Virginia Military Institute, a powerful experience that garnered many skills throughout his life. Kenner completed his undergraduate degree in History at the University of Mississippi with a ROTC scholarship. He graduated at the top of his class at the University of Mississippi School of Law with his Doctorate. He honorably fulfilled his ROTC service commitment, entering Officers Training and patriotically served in the Vietnam War for two years. He was honorably discharged in 1967 at the rank of First Lieutenant at Fort Benning, Georgia.
After returning from military service, Kenner settled in Greenville, Mississippi, set up his private law practice, and began employment as City Attorney for Greenville for many decades. Guy was highly respected within his community and was especially known for making his legal services accessible and affordable for his clients. He also took the oath of office and served as a Municipal Judge for the town of Arcola, Mississippi, for several years. He was highly effective and committed to helping both the community projects and the people of Greenville.
Kenner was raised during the Second World War and spent a great deal of time with his Grandmother “Muddy” and cousin Bootsy in Lexington, Mississippi. He was raised in Church, embracing the values of a southern gentleman, which he extended to people throughout his life. He was an avid pilot and had a deep love for aviation. He also enjoyed performing in local Delta Center Stage theater productions. He was a season ticket holder and part of the audience in his retirement years. A lifelong and charter member of Trinity Methodist Church, his faith and church community were central to his life. He was devoted to family, making a point to visit his mother every day while she was living. Kenner also shared a lifelong love for dogs, particularly his many Labrador retrievers and a cherished small Cocker Spaniel.
Kenner is survived by his wife, Michelle J. Plante Ellis of Onalaska, Wisconsin; his children, Ellanor Andrews (Shelton) Dukes of Birmingham, Alabama, Kathleen Rebecca (John) Gee of Birmingham, Alabama, Kenner Caroline Ellis of Cottondale, Alabama, and Angeline Marie (Noah) Finch of Onalaska, Wisconsin; 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Kathleen “Kicky” Stovall, and a cousin Ed Wilburn Ho**er. He will be deeply missed and remembered by friends and family.
Memorials may be given in memory of Kenner to Paws for Purple Hearts, doTERRA Healing Hands or a charity of your choice.