Donald “Cookie” Ellington, 89, of University City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, at St. Louis Hills Assisted Living & Memory Care. A cherished husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, Don will be remembered for his laughter, generosity, and love for music and family.  

Born on April 6, 1936, in Fulton, Missouri, to Nannie and Woodrow Ellington. A graduate of Fulton-area schools, he developed an early love for rhythm and melody, sparking a lifelong passion for jazz. Throughout his life, Don played drums in local groups across Fulton, Jefferson City, and later St. Louis, becoming known for his impeccable timing and warm personality both on and off stage.  

In 1959, Don married the love of his life, Nedra Dudley, beginning a remarkable 64-year partnership filled with devotion, humor, and mutual respect. Together they raised their daughter, Desirae, whose memory, along with Nedra’s, Don held close to his heart.  

Don spent much of his career as a dedicated Manager of Operations and Systems Engineering at the Wentzville GM plant, where his careful attention to detail and work ethic earned him deep respect among colleagues. He was also a longtime and active member of Centennial Christian Church, where he served on the Elder Board under the tutelage of Dr. Samuel Hylton Jr. He served on the Trustee Board and President of the Men’s Chorus. Music and faith were his guiding lights—he sang, drummed, and lifted others through joyful sound.  

Fun-loving and spirited, Don loved to entertain and was never happier than when firing up the grill for family and friends. An avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs, he carried a lifelong love of sports.  

Don is survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as great- and great-great-nieces and nephews. Honoring his wishes, no funeral service was held. Don was cremated, and his ashes, alongside those of Nedra, will rest beside their daughter, Desirae. 

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Don’s life on April 19th from 2–4 p.m. at the Heman Park Community Center, 975 Pennsylvania Avenue, University City, MO 63130. All who knew and loved him are welcome to gather, share memories, and honor the joy he brought to so many—a fitting tribute to a life lived with joy, rhythm, and love.