Leonard Earl Ellis, age 84, of O'Fallon, born September 16, 1937 in Murphysboro, Ill., passed away December 13, 2021 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, following a brief illness.

Leonard was self-employed as a thoroughbred horse trainer for many years. He was the 1982 Missouri State Barrel Racing Champion and was a professional horse-shoer. He served in the military, had worked for the railroad, and was a foster parent over the years. He even tried to convince folks that he was Roy Rogers' stuntman. He had an extensive collection of tractors and knives. Leonard was a reliable friend and family man and "the best dad."

He was preceded in death by his parents Dewey Ellis and Inabelle Basden; and several siblings.

He is survived by his wife Mary, whom he married January 30, 1955, his daughters Terry (Joe) Walsh and Annette (Ronnie) Ellis; grandchildren Stacey (Jessica) Hoolihan, Shannon (Sarah) Hoolihan, Michael (Kimmy) Ahring, Holden Feazel, Rachel Laminack and Joseph (Amber) Walsh III; great-grandchildren Cameron Paige, Makenna, Kynsleigh, Hayden, Hayley, Jasmine, Gracie Lynn, Klorissa, Keagan, Hunter, Joseph, and Blake; his buddy Paul Nance; brother Robert Ellis and sister Viola Fox.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Leonard Ellis will be hosted by the family.