Darren Burton Ellis

Darren Burton Ellis, 55, passed away on October 15, 2026.

Born on September 17, 1971, Darren lived a life marked by intelligence, strong convictions, deep loyalty, and a love for the people and pastimes that brought him joy. He graduated from St. Xavier High School in 1989 and went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Louisville. He worked as a lawyer for 12 years before beginning a long career as a car salesman, bringing his sharp mind, honesty, and independent spirit to each chapter of his professional life.

Darren was known as a friendly, family-oriented man who was unapologetically honest, loyal, and hard-headed in the way those who loved him understood well. He was a trivia expert and an avid reader who enjoyed traveling and loved history. Over the years, he found happiness in playing soccer and in continuing to follow the sport, especially cheering on Louisville City. He was also a devoted fan of the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Wildcats basketball, and Dodgers baseball.

His interests reflected both his enthusiasm and his sense of tradition. Darren collected baseball cards, shot glasses, and Kentucky Derby glasses, and he proudly continued the tradition of collecting winning Kentucky Derby tickets from his father. Among the accomplishments that meant the most to him were his son, Jake, and his niece and nephews, who brought him great pride.

He is survived by his mother, Letitia Ellis, and by his son, Jacob Ellis. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Brittany Dickens and her husband, Mike; his brother, Damian Ellis and his wife, Nancy; his niece, Kelsey Ellis; and his nephews, Landon Ellis, Layne Dickens and Luke Dickens, aunt/ Godmother, Toni (Kurt) Cummins, amongst other special aunts and extended family and friends who he considered family to cherish his memory forever.

Darren was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Ellis as well as his grandparents. 

Family and friends will gather for visitation on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Louisville, 10304 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, Kentucky 40272.

Darren will be remembered for his sharp wit, steadfast nature, love of family, and the passions he embraced so fully. His memory will remain with all who knew him and loved him.

In honor of Darren's life, the family requests that friends and family wear a shirt of his favorite teams, Kentucky Wildcats, Louisville City, Dodgers or The Kentucky Derby.