Elysia Nicole Hundley, lovingly known to all as Ellie, was the beautiful and cherished daughter of Andrew and Sara (Jepsen) Hundley. Though her time on earth was far too short, Ellie’s life was filled with a love and light that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Ellie was more than a little girl, she was truly a force of nature. She entered her parents’ lives with all the uproar and determination that only a two-month preemie could muster. From the very beginning, she showed the world her strength, her spirit, and her will to thrive.

Despite her rocky start, Ellie gave her family nearly three and a half years of unforgettable memories which were filled to the brim with wonder, laughter, tenderness, and boundless love. 

As she grew, Ellie blossomed into an intensely curious, intelligent, outgoing, and feisty toddler. She was inquisitive about everything around her, expressive in every emotion, and imaginative at every opportunity. She loved to pretend, to explore, and to immerse herself fully in play.

Ellie adored dinosaurs, treasured her playtime, and filled every room with her vibrant personality. And while she was adventurous and bold, she was also a snuggler at heart and was a sweet little soul who found joy in closeness, comfort, and connection.

Above all, Ellie’s greatest legacy will be one of love. She loved deeply and openly, and she was never shy about expressing it. Wise beyond her years, Ellie reminded everyone around her what it means to live with a full heart.

Even in her passing, Ellie continued to be a source of profound hope and compassion. As an organ donor, she gave an extraordinary gift of helping others in the most intimate and selfless way. Through love, she became a giver of life, leaving behind a legacy not only of joy, but of healing and grace. Her light will live on through the lives she touched, both seen and unseen.

Though her passing was sudden and unimaginable, Ellie’s impact will never fade. Her life radiant, joyful, and overflowing with affection will continue to inspire and comfort those who carry her memory forward.

Ellie will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.

Survivors include her parents, Sara and Andrew; maternal grandparents: David and Cyndi Jepsen of Ottawa, Illinois and paternal grandparents: Michael and Jennifer Hundley of Aurora, Illinois; maternal great grandmothers, Marcia Schacht and Elsa Jepsen; aunts and uncles: Nikki Hundley, Melissa and Eric Gurley and Andrew and Megan Jepsen, and her special cousin, Remy.

Ellie was preceded in death by her maternal great grandfathers: Rev. Robert Schacht, Donald Jepsen and Thomas Watts and paternal great grandparents: James and Shirley Judd, Preston Hundley and Rita Nelson.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Peace Lutheran Church, 101 Candlelight Lane in Morris on Friday, February 6, 2026 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow Saturday morning, February 7, 2026 in the church at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Thomas Rogers will officiate with Rev. Luanne Cantrell assisting.

Pallbearers will be Ellie’s grandfathers, Dave Jepsen and Mike Hundley along with uncles, Andrew Jepsen and Eric Gurley.

Cremation rites will be accorded at the conclusion of the services.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Ellie’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and cremation arrangements are being made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-2500)