Cecelia Eileen Kysar Ellsworth

Cecelia Eileen Kysar Ellsworth slipped away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at The Lund Hospice Home in Gilbert, Arizona.

She was born September 2, 1936, to Raymond Lyle and Ruth Parsons Kysar. The fourth of five children, Cecelia was raised with strong family values and a faith that anchored her throughout her life. The friendships she formed at Farmington High School remained dear to her throughout her life.

On November 25, 1955, she married the love of her life, John “Johnny” Ellsworth. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. Cecelia and Johnny were blessed with seven children: Bryan, Timothy, Daniel, Shawna, Kathleen, Ruth Rebecca, and Ron. She was also the proud grandmother of 27 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way—each a constant source of joy and pride.

Cecelia loved Jesus Christ and believed deeply in her Heavenly Father. She taught her children that Jesus is not distant—He is a personal friend. Her faith was steady, sincere, and quietly powerful.

She was a devoted wife and steadfastly committed to her marriage. Her selfless devotion shaped the lives of her children and all who knew her. She exemplified Christlike service throughout her life, particularly in community facing illness and challenges inherit in farming communities.  She was attentive to the quiet and often unseen needs of others, offering love, compassionate support, and care. Her example was a north star for her children as they strive to follow through careers and lives of service.

Cecelia’s home was welcome to all.  She was an incredible homemaker and never happier than when the table was surrounding by family and friends.  She loved the young men—affectionately known as her “adopted nephews”—who came to work on the family farm and loved them as if they were her own.

She expressed her love through giving. Cecelia canned, gardened, sewed, taught children’s classes at church and in the community, volunteered in schools, baked bread, and made the most unforgettable cinnamon rolls. She had a gift for bringing things to life—in her garden and in the hearts of people. She loved fall colors, roses, oil painting, and all things beautiful.

Wherever she made her home, she cultivated enduring friendships and both gave and received abundant blessings through the lives she touched.

Her children were the jewels of her life. She loved and encouraged them to become the very best they could be in whatever paths they chose.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 12:00 noon at 4629 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, Arizona 85234. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Mesa Cemetery.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.