The Shelbyville community mourns the loss of 33-year-old Patrick M. Ellis, a former standout athlete who passed away on February 4, 2026, leaving a legacy of excellence and kindness.
His mother, Rhonda Borton, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook the next day, writing,
“My heart is broken…RIP to my first born, my first love, my greatest joy.”
Via Facebook
Patrick was born on December 2, 1992, in Chicago, Illinois, to Russell Ellis and Rhonda (Young) Borton.
He grew up in Shelbyville with his siblings: Russell Ellis Jr., Rasheema Ellis, Rhanesia Ellis, and Amber Ellis, along with step-siblings Justin Borton Jr., Jocelyn Borton, Jauquarian Conner, and Johnathan Conner.
From a young age, Patrick found joy and support in his community. He started building lifelong bonds at the Boys and Girls Club when he was just five years old.
These friendships continued through middle school and high school, where he cherished the unconditional love from his friends, teammates, and their families.
At Shelbyville High School, Patrick shone as one of the school’s greatest athletes. He graduated in 2011 and made his mark in multiple sports. In track, he was a four-year finalist in the IHSAA state championships.
He finished as runner-up in the long jump during his sophomore and senior years. Patrick earned the Kiwanis Outstanding Track Athlete Award every year of high school. He also lettered four years in basketball and football.
In his senior year, he received the Paul Cross Award for basketball and the McKeand Award for football. To this day, he holds the Shelbyville track record for the long jump. He also ranks among the top five career rushers in Golden Bear football history.
After high school, Patrick continued his athletic career at Franklin College. He competed in football and track there. But sports were just one part of who he was. Friends and family remember Patrick for his kind heart and protective nature.
He made people feel safe and comfortable around him. He enjoyed spending time with loved ones, traveling, and being outdoors. Patrick worked at Knauf Insulation, where his hard work and quiet leadership stood out.
Friends shared their memories of Patric, showing how much he meant to them.
Clay Warner, a former teammate at Franklin College, shared,
“Patrick was a great friend, teammate, and fierce competitor. We shared many workouts, conversations, and time together during our first couple years at Franklin College. He always hyped me up and forever had me laughing. Rest easy my guy.”
Via Facebook
Ben Kramer, a close friend since third grade, wrote,
“Pat Ellis… I don’t even have the words right now. You’ve been my brother since third grade, and I can’t believe this day is real. You meant so much to so many people, and the impact you had goes way beyond anything anyone saw on the outside. I’m grateful for every memory, every laugh, every moment we shared growing up. You’ll always be a part of me. I love you, brother.”
Via Facebook
Other childhood friends like John Hartnett, John Krise, Dominique Cox, Chase Clapp, Josh Southworth, Austin Wilkins, and Zach Baird were especially dear to him.
Patrick is survived by his mother Rhonda and stepfather Justin Borton Sr., his siblings and step-siblings, his grandmother Patricia Young, his loving fiancé Katelynn Oliver, special cousins Deonna Williams and Dajuan Williams, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father Russell Ellis, his brothers Adam Ellis and Darrius Ellis, and his close childhood friend Gary Oldham Jr.
To help with funeral and memorial expenses, a GoFundMe has been set up with a goal of $10,000. Rhonda Borton announced it on Facebook, saying,
The fundraiser, organized by Steve Browning, honors Patrick’s humble spirit and aims to support his mother during this difficult time.
Memorial contributions can also be made to the Patrick Ellis Memorial Fund in care of Murphy-Parks Funeral Service.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at Shelbyville High School, located at 2003 S. Miller St., Shelbyville, IN 46176. Enter through Door C7.
Funeral services will follow at 4 p.m. in the high school gym, with Pastor Robb Barlow officiating. The choice of location shows Patrick’s deep ties to his alma mater and the community that shaped him.
Patrick has passed away, leaving a big emptiness in our lives. However, we will always remember him for the love he shared and the impact he had on others. In a fast-paced world, Patrick taught us the importance of kindness and strong relationships.
Rest in peace, Patrick.
Leave a Comment