Theodore "TJ" Ellington Jr., aged 61, passed away at home on April 17th, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. 

Born on December 4, 1963, in Columbus, Ohio, TJ was the eldest of three children born to the late Theodore (Duke) and Beverly Ellington, with one sibling preceding him in death.

TJ and Denise sealed their love in 1997 and were blessed with a child, uniting with TJ's two children from his previous marriage to complete their cherished family.

TJ thoroughly enjoyed watching sports and enjoyed attending baseball, basketball, football, and hockey games. He was also an avid comic book enthusiast, attending Comic-Con annually. Above all, TJ treasured spending quality time with his friends and family, sharing laughter, stories, and life lessons.

As the proud pitmaster and owner of Bigg Buttz BBQ, TJ pursued his life's passion through his BBQ business. 

TJ's loving memory is celebrated and cherished by his beloved wife, Denise; children, Ted, Kamina, and Amiri (Taibrie); grandchildren, Aubriana and Baby Duke; brother, Michael; aunt, Dolores (Paul), cousin, Chuck (Cristal); in laws, Dan (Marti), Peggy (Mallory), sister in law, Michelle (Doug), nieces, Kinsley (Justin) and Orian; nephews, Joseph and Judah; and countless extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Duke (Diane), and Beverly; Grandparents, Ruth (David), and sister, Leesha.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 2nd, 2025, at Adamson Life Celebration Home, 4700 20th St in Greeley, Colorado. We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the life and cherished memories of our beloved, TJ. For those inquiring on dress code. As the kids famously say to which TJ would enthusiastically agree… “come as you are!” Please rsvp at

https://www.afterall.com/obituaries/event/0a8ebb5e-1eee-11f0-ae80-025b488e9faf?host=TheodoreEllington

If you cannot attend in person, we will be providing a livestream via Facebook. Reach out to Denise if you need the direct link. 

Following the memorial service, please feel free to stop by to our home to reflect, share, and honor TJ together.

Friday, May 2nd, 2025 | 4pm | 1712 33rd Ave. Greeley, CO

In the spirit of community and togetherness, we ask that you bring along your favorite BBQ dish, side, or dessert. Let's enjoy TJ's favorite music in the comfort of our backyard, weather permitting. Also, please bring a chair and any beverage you’d like to enjoy.

Please rsvp here: https://www.afterall.com/obituaries/event/59a1fcab-24e9-11f0-ae80-025b488e9faf?host=TheodoreEllington

We look forward to sharing this special time with all those who meant so much to TJ and who he meant so much to as well.