Ellis Gene McCormick, 86, of Seymour, passed away at home with his loving daughter by his side Saturday, May 11, 2024. He was born May 3, 1938, to the late Charlie “Clyde” and Gertie (Blackburn) McCormick. He married his sweetheart, Elsie (Marsden) McCormick on September 27, 1964, and they enjoyed almost 42 years together until her passing in 2006.
Ellis began his career at Texas Eastern Pipeline Company in 1963. After he married Elsie, they moved to Lebanon, Ohio, and then were transferred to Seymour in 1977. They made their home in Seymour until he retired. After retirement, he became a Shriner clown named Yo-Yo. He loved interacting with the children because he was a big kid himself. As Yo-Yo, he traveled to many cities to compete. Many families got to know him and returned year after year for a photo or his autograph. Ellis also loved playing golf, most recently playing twice a week at Butler Falls at Hanover. He volunteered as a Marshall at various golf events, which was a job he enjoyed and took very seriously. Ellis was a long-time Cardinals baseball fan, watching their games on TV, and also enjoyed eating out with friends. He was a Free Mason, and a member of the Eastern Star, Murat Shrine, Bartholomew County Shrine Club, Scottish Rite, and Fraternal Order of Eagles. Ellis also proudly served his country in the United States Army.
Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughter, Julia McCormick; and several nieces and nephews. Ellis is preceded in death by his beloved wife Elsie; his parents, listed above; a brother; and four sisters.
Graveside service and burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 17, 2024 in Enfield Cemetery in Enfield, IL with full military honors by the Carmi VFW and American Legion. Friends may call at Campbell Funeral Home, 609 W. Main St., Carmi, IL 62821 on Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Friday from 9:00 a.m until 10:00 a.m.
Ellis still attended his high school class reunions, so memorial contributions in his honor may be made to the Norris City Omaha Enfield (NCOE) Alumni Association and will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi.
