Obituary of Karen A. Ellis

Karen A. (Jones) Ellis, age 70 of Clark Mills, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, comforted by the presence and love of her family.  She was born July 27, 1955, daughter of Clifford and Esther (Cady) Jones. 

Karen was a graduate of Westmoreland Central Schools and continued her education at Madison-Oneida BOCES, where she earned her license as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  She began her career caring for patients throughout Faxton-St. Luke’s Hospital and the Masonic Home, proudly dedicating herself to the nursing profession and caring for others for 47 years.  

On May 19, 1979, Karen married the love of her life, Walter B. Ellis.  Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and family. 

Karen was a beach bum at heart, always searching for a sunny spot outside or at the pool. Above all her interests, Karen’s greatest joy was her family, which would always come first in her life. The presence of her children and grandchildren always made her smile. 

She leaves behind her beloved husband Walter; her daughter Stephanie (Mark) Carpenter of Taberg; her twin sons, Stephen (Sara) Ellis of Potsdam and Daniel (Marisa) Ellis of Marcy; her grandchildren, Madilynn, Wyatt, Landon, Deacon and Liliana; and her siblings Mary Briggs, Paula (Robert) Howlett, Susan (Timothy) Stewart, Wayne (Johnna) Jones, Brenda (David) Renfrew, and Lorie (Rodney) Frank; and her sister-in-law, Carol (Robert) Roberts, and brothers-in-law Doug (Barbara) Ellis, and William Ellis; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  She also leaves behind, Sadie, her loyal canine companion who never left her side.  She was predeceased by her parents and her brother Ronald Jones.

Karen’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses and staff at the Upstate Cancer Center and MVHS Faxton Infusion Center for the exceptional care, kindness, and support they provided to her.

Family and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 pm at Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, 35 College St., Clinton.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 10:00 am at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest at Kirkland Cemetery in the Spring.

To honor Karen’s strength and courage, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.