Joyce Ellis

In Loving Memory of Joyce Todd Ellis

Joyce Todd Ellis, the heart and soul of her family, passed away on December 18, 2025. A woman of sharp wit, deep loyalty, and immense love, Joyce's legacy is carried on by the family she nurtured and the many lives she touched.

Born and raised in Miami, Oklahoma, to the late Ralph Henry Todd and Alma Lee Ellsworth Todd, Joyce's life changed forever when she married her high school sweetheart, Charles I. Ellis III (Bud). Their 56-year marriage was a beautiful journey of partnership and devotion that eventually led them from Oklahoma to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where they raised their family and built a home filled with warmth.

Joyce was a woman of many passions, but none greater than her family. She delighted in the kitchen, where her cooking and baking were the centerpieces of every holiday-her favorite time of year. While she was known for her kindness, she was equally famous for her straight-talking nature; Joyce never hesitated to tell you exactly "how the cow ate the cabbage," a trait that earned her both respect and many laughs over the years.

In addition to her role at home, Joyce was a proud member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, where she enjoyed the company of her friends and serving her community.

Joyce is survived by her devoted husband, Charles I. Ellis III (Bud); her three children, Leslie Thomas, Wade Ellis, and Lori Butler (and her husband, Matt). Her spirit lives on in her five grandchildren, who were her greatest joy: Gabriel Ellis, Olivia Thomas, Wade Pratt, Zoe Butler, and Maylee Butler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Alma Lee Todd of Miami as well as her brother, John Todd of Northport. Joyce was the glue that held her family together, and while she will be deeply missed, the love she gave will remain with them forever.

No services, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Joyce will be laid to rest at the Magnolia Chapel South Cemetery Mausoleum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

 In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association or West Alabama Hospice.