Barbara “Barb” Ann Ellis, age 72, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, at Envive of Brookville. She was born on July 14, 1952, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to William E. Higgs and Alicia Bath Higgs.
A lifelong resident of Brookville, Barb attended St. Michael School and Brookville High School, building lifelong friendships that she cherished throughout her life. On February 26, 1971, she married Richard “Rick” James Ellis at St. Michael Catholic Church. Together, they built a loving home in Brookville, raising three children and remaining devoted members of St. Michael Parish throughout their lives.
Barb was a familiar and friendly face at the Dairy Cottage on Main Street, where she worked for over 25 years. Whether serving breakfast or working behind the counter, she always had a smile, a warm welcome, and made you feel at home.
She was a voracious reader, an animal lover, and someone who loved living in the country. Barb will be remembered for her warmth, quiet strength, and the loyalty she showed to family and friends alike.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Rick Ellis of Brookville; her son Brad (Catrina) Ellis of Noblesville; her daughter Megan Ellis of Colorado Springs; two beloved grandsons, Aidric and Emmett Ellis; her sister Bonnie (Tom) Foltz of Erlanger; her brother Bill (Barb) Higgs of Brookville; and many loving extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Jill Ellis.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home, 929 Main Street, Brookville, Indiana. The Rosary will be prayed following the visitation at 7 p.m.. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Friday, at St. Michael Catholic Church, with Father Vince Lampert officiating. Burial will follow at St. Michael Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Michael Catholic Church either in person at the funeral home or sent by mail to 145 St. Michael Blvd, Brookville, Indiana 47012 To sign the online guestbook or to leave a personal condolence, please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home are honored to care for Barb and her family.