In West Philadelphia born and raised… on April 04, 1947, Robert Ellis, Jr was born the eldest son of the late Robert and Elsie Ellis. He was blessed to have 3 younger sisters and a brother to grow up with. He attended West Philadelphia High School, and met his high school sweetheart, Cheryl Smalley from Overbrook High School, at their rival football game. They would go on to be married for 34 years and raise 3 wonderful children together.
After high school, he voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army. While in the Army, “Bobby” served twice in Vietnam as a combat medic, sustaining multiple shrapnel wounds. He was also a publications writer, drill instructor and medical non-commissioned officer (NCO). After serving his country for 23 years, 6 months, and 14 days, he retired as a sergeant first class (SFC) on March 31, 1989.
After retiring from the Army, “Rob” went back to school and earned multiple degrees. He then taught career and technology courses at various high schools and served as a docent. Education was always very important to him and he always encouraged others to learn as much as possible. Robert was involved in many activities with different organizations such as the Masons and the VFW.
In 2018 Robert married Yolanda Nelson, who he called Abby (after Abigail in the Bible), and was blessed with 5 bonus children to love. They enjoyed his retirement years with plenty of dancing, good food, and going viral on TikTok.
A lifelong believer in Christ, Robert was a member of several homes of worship over the years. Most notably Resurrection Baptist Church, Lone Star Baptist Church where he was ordained as a deacon, and Ebenezer AME where he was proud to be a Kingsmen.
An avid Philadelphia Eagles fan since his childhood, “Bob” never missed a game.
Robert's legacy includes his beloved wife Yolanda; children Andrew M. Ellis (Nicole Davis), Shawn P. Ellis (Sebrena), Monica T. Jemison (Damion); bonus children Kenneth L. Ellis, Ashlee M. Derrington, Troi C. Derrington, Tyler N. Derrington, Christian A. Derrington, and Yolonnie M. Nelson; 8 grandchildren, and 2 great-granddaughters. He also leaves behind his mother-in-law Frances M. Thorne; loving siblings Roslyn Hunt (Billy), Janet Ellis, Madison Ellis, and Carolyn Waters Ellis; and sisters-in-law Denise Smalley and Doretha Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.
His fur babies Chase and Felicia will miss him most of all.
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