Ellis Junior Shell, age 82 of Dayton, passed away Friday, August 21, 2026, in his residence. He was born in Viper, Kentucky on October 21, 1943, the son of Charlie & Cora (Coots) Shell. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army where he served from May 15, 1968, to January 10, 1970, as a Sergeant, and served in the Vietnam War. Ellis loved hunting and was an avid shooter and marksman. He worked in the Foundry for DurIron in Dayton for many years and retired in 1988. He was involved in Quarter Midget Racing for over 50 years. He started with his son Cris in 1976 and later with his son Stephan. He, and his wife Rebecca, owned SSS Racing Enterprise Inc. for many years and built the Eagle Quarter Midget Cars. They traveled over many states racing and building cars. They still have many friendships from the drivers and people they met over the years. He and Rebecca were members of the Rescue Shop Church in New Carlisle and were very involved with the Life Enrichment Center in Dayton and later the FISH Pantry in Xenia to provide food for those in need for many years. Ellis was an Honorary Kentucky Colonel.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Rebecca L. (Mecham) Shell; sons Cris (Kelly) Shell and Stephan (Jamie) Shell; grandchildren Angel Shell, Cristopher Shell, Bishop Shell and Eleanor Shell; sister Vernia McIntyre; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Ray Shell, Walter Shell, and Lawrence Shell. Ellis was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who loved him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm at the ZERKLE FUNERAL HOME, 11900 N. Dixie Dr., Tipp City. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday at 5:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor TJ McDaniel officiating. A burial will be held at the convenience of the family in the family cemetery in Viper, Kentucky. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Ellis’ memory to your local Food Bank or Veteran’s Organization. Condolences may be made to the family through this online guestbook.