Kathy Sue Ellis, age 79, of Edwardsville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side on July 22, 2026. She was born on August 14, 1946, in Highland, Illinois. Kathy was the beloved daughter of Thornton and Evelyn Lane, who preceded her in death, along with her aunt/best friend Betty Funston, Brother-in-Law Daniel Ellis, and her very close friend, Arland "Corky" Sparks.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Harold, with whom she shared 57 years of marriage. They were wed on November 22, 1969, in Edwardsville, IL. Early on in their relationship, Kathy and Harold would frequently spend their nights out on the town dancing and listening to bands with their friends.

 Kathy is also survived by her twin brother Gary Lane and sister Kim (Albert) Pauli.

Kathy was the proud and loving mother of two children, Aaron (Amy) Ellis and Dawn (Brian) Calhoon. Her grandchildren, Grace Ellis, Abby Calhoon, Caleb Calhoon, Gage Ellis, and Faith Ellis, were her utmost pride and joy. You would always find her supporting and cheering her grandchildren on at their games and events. Her home was always open, filled with laughter and the aroma of family dinners every Wednesday.

An adventurous spirit, Kathy loved to travel, and together with Harold, she explored the beauty of many national parks, countless cross-country road trips, and even ventured into Canada. Some of her fondest memories were shared with her mother and Aunt Betty during their trips to Branson and Mississippi, where laughter echoed over the sound of slot machines and margaritas.

 Kathy loved collecting shot glasses, and she would come home with a new one after every single trip. She was also an avid shopper; she absolutely adored taking her daughter and grandchildren out for the day to spoil them with lunch and a shopping trip. Holidays were also always Kathy's favorite, Christmas especially. She always had the house elaborately decorated for every single holiday, big or small.

Kathy's warm and welcoming personality, coupled with her distinctive laugh, touched the lives of many. She was a longstanding member of Eden Church in Edwardsville, IL, where her presence will be dearly missed. Her life was a testament to love, family, and community.

Private family services to honor and celebrate Kathy's life were held at Eden Church.

The Ellis family extends a heartfelt thank you to BJC Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Kathy over the past two years. In lieu of flowers, grab a margarita and put $20 on black. Donations can also be made to The Alzheimer's Association, The National Park Foundation, or BJC Hospice.

Kathy Ellis will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her life was a beautiful journey, and her memory will be treasured by all who loved her.  Condolences may be expressed online at weberfuneralhome.com.