Francis Alexander Ellis

Francis (Mr. Ellis to anyone younger than him) was born on July 13, 1954 in St. Pierre, Martinique, and after spending several years in Europe, found his way to Kansas City in the 1990s. He was a polyglot, speaking French, Italian and other languages, and worked for some time as a translator at the Angelus Press. However, he spent most of the following years working for St. Vincent de Paul and the U.S. District of the Society of Saint Pius X as security during the 1990s and 2000s.

Francis had an extensive knowledge of history and of the Faith and served as sacristan at St. Vincent’s church for many years. He was devoted to the Traditional Latin Mass, and he encouraged his fellow Catholics in practicing their Faith, and in devotions to Our Lord and Our Lady. He supported seminarians in their training to the priesthood, and he had a true love and concern for the well-being of his fellow parishioners and the safety of St. Vincent’s property and parishioners at a time when vandalism and other crime was more common on Flora Avenue. He was socially engaging, and he told stories to his friends in the parish of his time in Europe and military service.

Francis has no known surviving next of kin, but he will be missed by his friends at St. Vincent’s and by other friends.

His health declined in recent years, and he spent his last days in nursing care after his condition prevented him from living independently. However, he never abandoned his Faith despite the numerous adversities he faced. Please pray for the repose of his soul.

A reception of the body and viewing for Francis will be held Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 3106 Flora Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109. A rosary will occur Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 3106 Flora Ave., Kansas City, MO 64109. A mass of christian burial will occur Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 10:30 AM, 3106 Flora Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109. A committal service will occur Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Mount Saint Mary's Cemetery, 2201 Cleveland Ave., Kansas City, MO 64127.