Russell Francis Ellis Iii

Russell Francis Ellis III, 62, of St. Libory, IL, born Sept. 15, 1960 in Springfield, MA died Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, IL.

Russell retired as a MSgt. from the United States Air Force.  He had a 42-year rugby career as a player, coach, and mentor.  Since 1986, he was with the Rowdies Rugby Club in Belleville, IL.  Russell was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and was involved in all his children’s activities throughout their lives.

He was preceded in death by one son, Russell F. Ellis IV.

Surviving are his parents, Russell F. and Beatrice M., nee Duquette, Ellis Jr.; his wife, Mellody G., nee Slavens, Ellis whom he married in Barksdale AFB, LA on April 3, 1982; two sons, Stephen (Stacy) Ellis, Adam Ellis; one grandson, Russell R. Ellis; two sisters, Shirlee Ellis, Kathy (Dave) Filkins; one sister-in-law, Nathalie (Harold) Woodard; also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of all other gifts memorials may be made to: Rowdies Rugby Club, 2435 Meadow Dr., Belleville, IL 62226 or via Venmo @rowdiesrugby, with Russ in the memo line. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting mollfuneralhome.com .

Visitation: Visitation will be from 4 to 8 PM Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022, at Moll Funeral Home in Mascoutah, IL.

Funeral: A graveside service will be held at 1 PM Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO with Father Nick Fleming officiating.