Ercel Ellis Jr

Ercel Ellis Jr died early May 7, 2026 in Lexington at the age of 94. Born in 1931, he grew up around horse-racing legends, and his father was said to have put the first halter on Man O’ War. He was a patriot, serving in the Navy during the Korean War. He was a journalist, managing the Kentucky office of the Daily Racing Form from 1968 to 1983. He was also a broadcaster, hosting the daily radio racing results show Post Time for more than 50 years, as well as its long-running follow-up show, Horse Tales.
Over a long and varied life, he was many things – a sailor in the US Navy, an advertising man, an author, an authority on racing history, legends, and lore – but in the end, he would have described himself simply as a father, a husband, and a horseman. He often told the story that when he met Man O’War for the first time at the age of six, his father said, ‘Take a good look at this horse, boy, because you will never see another one like him.’ It is also likely that we will never see another Kentuckian like Ercel Ellis, Jr.
He leaves behind three children and his wife, Jackie. His passing took place on the day of their 44th wedding anniversary.
Visitation will be held from 11 am – 12 pm with a Service to follow at 12 pm Monday May 18, 2026, at Milward – Broadway. The Graveside will follow at Camp Nelson National Cemetery. www.milwardfuneral.com