Carthage Chamber announces Maple Leaf Festival Grand Marshals

Carthage, MO – The Carthage Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Jerry and Jo Ellis have been selected as the Grand Marshals for the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival.

Not one, but two remarkable individuals have been chosen to represent the community in this honored role.
Jerry and Jo Ellis have been pillars of the Carthage community since 1954, dedicating their lives to service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making Carthage a better place to live, work, and celebrate. Their legacy spans decades of involvement in civic organizations, church, business development, and volunteer service, touching countless lives in the process.

“As we celebrate 59 years of the Maple Leaf Festival, it is only fitting that we honor two people who have given so much of themselves to Carthage,” said Julie Reams, President of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce. “Jerry and Jo Ellis are a shining example of community spirit, service, and dedication.

From their leadership roles to their behind-the-scenes efforts, they have spent a lifetime helping shape Carthage into the vibrant, welcoming community it is today. They are truly an excellent choice to represent both the festival and our hometown.”

After relocating to Carthage in 1954 from Florida they both fell in love with the small-town atmosphere and how historic Carthage is. Jerry, a nationally recognized artist, his watercolor paintings showcased the beauty of Carthage and donating many of his works to several charities and charitable funds.

Jo worked formerly for The Joplin Globe and was able to discover Carthage, by meeting many people she knew she wanted to be involved. From serving on many boards throughout the Carthage community a true dedication to seeing Carthage Parks enhanced, working with others for the restoration of many projects, and contributing so much more. Their legacy of service and leadership reflects the very heart of what the Maple Leaf Festival® represents—community, tradition, and celebration.

The 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival® kicks off on October 10, 2025, with events running daily through October 19, 2025, highlighted by the Maple Leaf Parade on Saturday, October 18 at 9 a.m. around the historic Carthage Square.

For a complete list of festival events and activities, visit the Carthage Chamber of Commerce website at www.carthagechamber.com.