Ellis D. Kilgore

We remember Ellis Dyson Kilgore, 79, of Bellville, Ohio, who peacefully passed away in his sleep on Saturday, September 6, 2025, under the care of Ohio Health in Mansfield.

Ellis was born April 23, 1946, in Willard, Ohio, to the late Kelly C. and Juanita E. (Keene) Kilgore, Ellis's life journey concludes, leaving behind cherished memories for all who knew him.

Ellis is survived by his children, Anthony (Rebecca) Kilgore of Willard, Matthew Kilgore of Findlay, Alexis (Xavier) Kilgore of Akron, John (Brittany) Kilgore of Bellville, Brian Hamilton, Bradley Hamilton, and Brenda Rush, grandchildren, Ashley Reader, Adriana Kilgore, Taylor Kilgore, Michael Kilgore, Bayleigh Kilgore, Kayden Kilgore, Alayla Kilgore, Devante Kilgore, Nakazia Sewell, Trysten Kilgore, and Brycen Kilgore, three great-granddaughters and one great-grandson who will all continue to carry forward his spirit. He will be forever remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ellis was preceded in death by his eight siblings, Lindsey Kilgore, Timothy Kilgore, David Kilgore, James Barkley Merritt, Marie Fields, Fadanna Schultz, Elizabeth Kilgore, and Patricia Schultz.

Ellis graduated from Willard High School in 1965 and was known for his love of horses, especially his horse “Smoky”, and his reputation as "one of the last real cowboys of his time". He was a skilled builder and construction worker who owned A&E Tool Rental in Willard and later worked as an over the road truck driver. An avid hunter, he prized a large buck mount and enjoyed riding Smoky in the Willard parade, hiking in Phoenix, Arizona. In retirement, Ellis enjoyed visiting family, riding his Harley, going to the casino, fishing, and even learned to fly a plane and obtained a pilot's license. Later in life, he cherished making memories with his grandchildren.

There will be a memorial service for Ellis held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 12, 2025 at Engle-Shook Funeral Home & Crematory in Tiffin. There will be no burial or visitation held at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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