Cecelia Kay Anderson Ellis, 76, Columbus

Cecelia Kay Anderson Ellis, 76, of Columbus, IN, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center. Cecelia was born on February 1, 1949 in Peru, IN to Harold E. Anderson and Mayda Marie (Reyburn) Anderson. She was a woman of great faith, a respected member of St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

Cecelia was a proud graduate of Peru High School, where she first discovered her passion for storytelling and the written word. This passion would become the cornerstone of her illustrious career in photojournalism. Cecelia's exceptional talent and keen eye for detail led her to serve her country with distinction in the Army Reserve and the National Guard. Her experiences and contributions were chronicled in the Stars and Stripes Magazine, where she shared the stories of her fellow service members with a world eager to listen.

Throughout her long and distinguished career, Cecelia's dedication to her craft earned her widespread acclaim. As a freelance journalist, she contributed to the Republic, capturing the essence of local events and stories with precision and care. Her work also caught the attention of the Associated Press, where her articles and photographs were distributed on a global scale. Cecelia's ability to convey the human experience through her journalism garnered her numerous service commendation awards and accolades from her peers in the industry.

Cecelia's commitment to her community extended beyond her professional endeavors. She was very active in the preservation of Camp Atterbury POW Chapel and Museum, ensuring that the rich history and contributions of those who served were preserved and honored. Her involvement brought to light the stories of bravery and sacrifice that might otherwise have gone untold, providing a source of education and inspiration for future generations.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, November 22, 2024, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church with Father Chris Wadelton officiating and homilist, Deacon Brad Anderson. Calling hours will be from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with a rosary service at 7:30.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, Columbus, IN or Shalom Community Center in Bloomington, IN.

Survivors include her children, Heather (Terry) Dirrim of Bremen, IN, Adrian Ellis of Bloomington, IN; brother, A. Bradley (Kathy) Anderson of Hope, IN; sister, Alicia Rendel of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Stasha (Andre) Carrasquillo, Shelby (Isaac) Frazier; great grandchildren, Naya, Amelia, Luca; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Cecelia was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mayda Anderson; son, Aaron Ellis; brother, Franklin L. Anderson; sister-in-law, Carol Anderson and brother-in-law, Dr. Jeff Rendel.