Jean Ellen Ellis

Jean Ellen Ellis passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at her home in Bettendorf, Iowa, surrounded by her loved ones. Jean was born on December 22, 1935, in Davenport, Iowa, the only child of Raymond and Helen Smith.

She graduated from (Davenport) Central High School in 1954. She married Russell Ellis on June 18, 1955, at First Presbyterian Church in Davenport, Iowa, and they were married for 71 years. Jean spent 25 dedicated years serving the Bettendorf School District as secretary to the superintendent and, in her retirement, gave generously of her time volunteering for Scouting America.

She and Russ shared a great love of travel, visiting 49 states and every National Park across the country. Jean was an avid reader with a fondness for horror, both in books and on screen alike. She had a lifelong love of animals, sharing her home and heart with many beloved dogs and cats over the years. What she cherished most in life was her family, to whom she was a gift.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Russ; her children, Shawn and John Kraft of Annawan, Illinois, and Scott Ellis of Davenport, Iowa; her grandchildren, Michelle and Lee Neece, Jake Kraft, Lindsey and Jason Pigg, Cole and Kelly Kraft, Jess Hubner, Spencer and Renee Ellis, and Collin and Chelsea Ellis; her 17 great-grandchildren; and her 6 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Helen Smith. May they rest in peace.

Family and friends can share memories and condolences on her tribute page at www.mvcremation.com.