Ellery Binns

Ellery Binns was born on May 11, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, to the late Samuel Binns Jr. and Cleophas Haruey-Binns. He was one of five siblings. Both parents preceded him in death, but their legacy of love, resilience and family pride lived on through him.

A proud product of Gary, Ellery graduated high school before enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he served with great distinction for 20 years. During his military career, he excelled in multiple roles including Health Services Management Craftsman, Electronic Laboratory Journeyman, Missile Electronic Equipment Specialist, and Telephone Equipment Installer Specialist. His service included active support during Operation Desert Shield/Storm from 1990 to 1995. He was the recipient of numerous honors, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal and National Defense Service Medal with two devices and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with four devices. His military education included leadership training and supervisory development, shaping him into a committed professional and compassionate leader.

After retiring from the Air Force, Ellery began a 17 year career in healthcare administration at Eskenazi Hospital (formerly Wishard Hospital) in Indianapolis. His dedication to excellence in service, both in uniform and out, remained unwavering.

Ellery was formerly married to Vicki Dixon Binns for 17 years. Their union produced two beloved daughters, Erikka and Eliyse, who remained the joy and pride of his life. Becoming a grandfather was a milestone he celebrated, cherishing his grand children; Allerie and Ashton and delighting in their every achievement; as well as his beloved grand-dogs, Gizmo and Marley.

Ellery had a deep love for music of all genres, a sharp eye for photography, and a strong sense of pride in a well-manicured lawn.

He enjoyed cooking, road trips, watching and collecting movies. He had a passion for craftsmanship and home projects-never hesitating to travel long distances to help his daughters with home projects.

Though shopping with his daughters was far from his favorite activity, he rarely missed a trip. He was a quiet caretaker by nature-supporting both his father and his eldest daughter in their times of need. He especially enjoyed being retired and relished reminding others of just how much he loved it.

Ellery's faith anchored him throughout his life. He was a devoted brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Known for his dry wit, generous heart, and dependability, he often opened his home and his time to those he loved. Ellery's life was one of devotion, duty, and deep love for family. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, and the example of integrity and dedication he leaves behind.

Ellery Binns departed this life on May 26, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the age of 72. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his daughters, Erikka Binns of Irving, TX, and Eliyse Binns of Decatur, GA; grandchildren, Allerie Davis and Ashton Davis of Irving, TX; sisters, Ramona Binns and Debora Binns of Indianapolis, IN, and Sharon (Darrell) Magee of Merrillville, IN; brother, Charles (Christina) Binns of Green Bay, WI; nieces, Nicole Minor and Antoinett Evans of Indianapolis, IN, and Jazmin Binns of Milwaukee, WI; nephew, Chaz Binns of Green Bay, WI; great-nephew, Rahman Minor of Indianapolis, IN; aunts, Barbara Dunlap of Monticello, AR, and Ramonetha Terry, of Arkadelphia, AR, and a host of extended family, lifelong friends, and fellow servicemen and women.