In Loving Memory of Jordon Ellis - A Tribute

I am devastated by the loss of my brother, Jordon Ellis. He left us too early, at age 36. I am launching this fundraiser as a tribute to the gentle, kind, loving and talented brother that he was. He gave so much to the world through his music and his kind spirit and he loved his son Edison with all of his heart. My father, Jeff, and all of our family are in shock. Jordon took his own life on February 28, 2023.

Our family needs help with Jordon's final expenses. We are carrying his debt and there are funeral, legal and counseling costs ahead of us. We also want to set up an education fund for Jordon's 9- year old son, Edison. Any additional funds will help us plan a large celebration of life this summer so that his friends, family and fans can grieve and process this tragedy while bringing awareness to suicide prevention.

People who donate here will be the first to know about the date and time for this memorial/celebration of life.

I send this out in honor of the infinite gifts Jordon gave us all, through his transcendent music, his deep musical sensibilities and his immeasurable listening skills. His skills as a percussionist made every musician he played with sound better. His recording and mixing skills made every album and every film soundtrack better. He was always supportive, willing, and generous with his talents. He toured and performed with so many incredible musicians and produced so many people's albums! His legacy of touring, playing and recording with cellist Ben Sollee will live on. Ben and Jordon played hundreds of shows, touring the world as far as India; performing at festivals like Bonaroo, SXSW and Newport Folk; and even logging over 4,000 miles hauling his drums on a trailer behind his bike for one of their U.S. tours.

What we didn't know was the depth of his suffering and depression. He always showed us a brave face. The last couple of years had become increasingly difficult for Jordon and his mental health was declining. He was having financial difficulties and we have incurred significant debt on his behalf. He leaves behind his beautiful 9-year old son, Edison. We want Edison to know how much we loved his dad and to know how much beauty and joy his dad gave to this world.

If you are moved to donate, it will be a huge help for our family. Our dad, Jeff Ellis had a stroke in 2017 which ended his music career and he has not been able to work since because of his disability. Jordon had taken over our Dad's mowing business. My wife and I are raising two children, and run a small business in Frankfort, Kentucky. Your donations will help us get through these tough times. Thank you.