David Lee Ellis

It is with incredible sadness that we share the passing of David Lee Ellis—“Dad,” “Diamond Dave,” “Pap,” or “Uncle Dave,” depending on who you were to him—79, of Irwin, PA, who passed away on July 8, 2026, with his family by his side. He was immensely loved and will be greatly missed and remembered by all who knew him.

Born on October 24, 1946, in Westmoreland County, he was the son of Betsy Mae Shaw and William J. Ellis.

To his family, he was the rock, the protector, and the one who kept everyone together. He loved his family more than anything in the world, and he made sure they knew it every single day. With him, you never had to wonder if he would show up. If you called, he was there. If you needed him, he appeared. He made the people he loved feel safe, cared for, special, and never alone.

He had a gift for making life feel easier. He was funny—always joking, always playing pranks, and always finding a way to make people laugh. He never took life too seriously because he understood what a gift it was. He often said, “We’re so blessed,” and he meant it. He felt fortunate to have his family, but the truth is, they were the lucky ones to have him.

He was strong, unforgettable, and one of a kind. He had countless friends, lived wild and free, and loved his people like crazy. He had the biggest heart. He taught those around him how to care for people, how to show up, how to be strong, and how to love without question.

His family will miss his voice, his laugh, his stories, his jokes, and the way he made everything feel okay. He leaves behind a love that cannot be replaced and memories that will be carried forever.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children, Renee(Kirk) and Lisa(Robert); his grandchildren, Justin(Jacki), Jade(Shane), Lukas, Jake, and Ashley(Bubba); his great-grandchildren, Zander, Taylor, Trainor, Conrad, Saylor, Tristan, Braxton, Tennyson, Brooks, and Cole; his sister, Lonna Comer; and many extended family members, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Betsy and William; and his siblings, Tracy, Bunny, Bill, Mike, Gary, and Jeff.