LAKELAND, Fla. – Kobe Ellis leaps high in the air, and arms close together, completes a perfect cannonball in his family’s swimming pool. The large splash is followed by screams of delight by his three younger brothers.
Kobe is clearly enjoying his new adoptive home with the Ellis family. When his adoption was finalized in 2008 he instantly became the oldest to three younger brothers, which include Cooper (age 5), Coleman (age 9), and Conner (age 11). Kobe turned 14 last December.
Kobe was cared for by the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes for five years before being adopted by Kenny and.
The Ellis family became acquainted with Kobe through basketball where Kenny coached Kobe’s team. “I thought very highly of Kobe. He was always very polite and was available for adoption,” Kenny said.
“My wife and praying about. Little did we know that many people were praying for us as well. Today, Kobe is part of our family.”
Kobe was six years old when he came to the Children’s Homes. His father was gone and as a result her parental rights were eventually terminated.
Kobe describes a warm and.
Kobe Ellis (far right) enjoys playing at home with his new adoptive family.
Pictured above is Kobe Ellis with his adoptive family. Kobe lived at the Children's Homes for five years before finding his Forever Family with the Ellises. From left are Kenny (father), Coleman, Conner, Kobe, Cooper, and their mother Jennie.