Craig Robert Ellis

R. Craig Ellis, 70, of Phillipsburg, NJ passed away on March 19, 2025. Craig was born in Teaneck, NJ on January 20, 1955, to Howard R. Ellis and Barbara (Brandell) Ellis. He graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1973 and was a member of the National Honor Society, selected for NJ Boys’ State and competed successfully on the high school track and field team all four years. He graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Chemical Engineering and subsequently completed the requirements for a Professional Engineer’s license. While employed full time in NJ, he commuted every other weekend to attend the Executive MBA program at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business from which he graduated.

Craig possessed a keen intellect and could patiently and thoughtfully explain complicated concepts to those who sought his assistance. He diligently pursued his interests and passions such as skydiving, bungee cord jumps, scuba diving and motorcycle vacations with his brother. He was a voracious reader and was eager to help others in any way he could. He, also, enjoyed the company of his friends and family as well as his beloved dogs for who he cared deeply. At any moment, he could be sarcastic yet caring, quick witted with biting humor or just friendly and outgoing. He was the quintessential big brother role model to Scott who always looked to Craig for advice and guidance regardless of the subject.

Craig was deeply loved by his mother Barbara (2007), father Howard (2015), and leaves behind his sister Debbie and her husband Michael Waldron of Blairstown, NJ and brother Scott and his wife Patty McSally of La Quinta, CA. He also leaves behind nephew Michael Waldron (Kate), niece Lauren Waldron Allen (Tim), and grand-niece Mattison Ellis, grand-niece Maya Waldron and grand-nephew Will Allen.

A funeral mass and burial will be celebrated privately.

Memorial donations to the ASPCA would be greatly appreciated by Craig.