Francis Paul Ellis

Francis “Paul” Ellis, age 88, of Medford, passed away Friday, August 1, 2025 surrounded by family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 10:00AM at Memory Gardens Memorial Park Chapel, 1395 Arnold Ln., Medford, OR 97501. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Paul’s name may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation.

Paul was born on August 24, 1936 to Earl and Patricia (Carrigan) Ellis in Berlin, New Hampshire. He was an Arcata High School Class of 1955 graduate. On June 30, 1957, Paul married the love of his life, Donna (Huff) Ellis. Paul honorably served his country as a member of the United States Navy Reserves before enlisting in the United States Army. He was a member of the California Highway Patrol and ended his working career with Boise Cascade in Medford, OR.

Paul enjoyed traveling, woodworking and spending time outdoors. He was in his element fixing and building things with this hands for family and friends. Paul’s adventures began when he and Donna were stationed in Germany and continued later when their sons were stationed in the United Kingdom. They continued traveling across the states visiting their sons and their families over the years as well as countless trips around Oregon with his daughters family. He loved nothing more than camping, fishing, and spending time with family at Howard Prairie Lake, water skiing with the kids. He went on many memorable hunting trips, but most spoke of was his elk hunt with his son-in-law Gary. In retirement, you could find him traveling with their RV club or in the golf cart at Cocopah RV Resort in Yuma, AZ where he aided patron’s in parking their RVs.

Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved his family deeply.

Paul leaves to cherish his loving memory: wife, Donna Ellis; children, Debbie (Gary) Arnold, Stephen (Nicole) Ellis, and James Ellis (Mayette); granddaughters, Ashley Arnold and Nichole (Chris) Davis; grandson, Matthew Ellis and Jeffery Ellis; great-grandson, Hudson Davis; special niece Rhonda (Andy) Miller; a host of great-nieces and great-nephews; and his special puppy, Sandy. He was preceded in death by his parents.