Longtime Brownwood Educator and Rancher Ronald Thorp Ellis Dies at 86

Ellis dedicated 38 years to education and was a proud third-generation rancher in Texas.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 1:11am

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Ronald Thorp Ellis, known as 'Ronny' or 'Ronnie,' passed away at his home in Brownwood, Texas on March 20, 2026 at the age of 86. Ellis spent 37 years with the Brownwood Independent School District as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent before retiring in 2000. Beyond his career in education, Ellis was a proud third-generation rancher who found joy in working the family ranch that had been in the family since 1875.

Why it matters

Ellis' life and career exemplify the importance of dedicated educators and the enduring legacy of family-owned ranches in Texas communities. His decades of service to the Brownwood school district and his lifelong commitment to the family ranch highlight the profound impact that individuals can have on their local communities.

The details

Ellis graduated from Brownwood High School in 1957 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Vocational Agriculture in 1962 and a Master's in Education in 1969 from Southwest Texas State College (now Texas State University). He spent 37 years with the Brownwood Independent School District, serving as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent before retiring in 2000. In retirement, Ellis enjoyed traveling with his wife Gail, gambling, and attending his grandchildren's sporting events and activities.

  • Ellis passed away at his home in Brownwood, Texas on March 20, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., followed by funeral services at 2:00 p.m. at Heartland Funeral Home in Early, Texas.
  • Ellis was born on August 22, 1939 in Brownwood, Texas.

The players

Ronald Thorp Ellis

Also known as 'Ronny' or 'Ronnie,' Ellis was a longtime educator and third-generation rancher in Brownwood, Texas.

Gail Ellis

Ellis' devoted wife of 46 years.

Brownwood Independent School District

The school district where Ellis spent 37 years of his career as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent.

Heartland Funeral Home

The funeral home where Ellis' visitation and services will be held.

Greenleaf Cemetery

The cemetery in Brownwood, Texas where Ellis will be buried.

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The takeaway

Ronald Thorp Ellis' life and career exemplify the profound impact that dedicated educators and multi-generational ranchers can have on their local communities. His decades of service to the Brownwood school district and his lifelong commitment to the family ranch highlight the enduring legacy of individuals who devote themselves to their passions and communities.