Johnny Ellis

John Harper “Johnny” Ellis, 71, of Wilson, passed away at his home on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral, Sunday, 3:00 PM, Wilson Memorial Service, conducted by Rev. Ray Wells, followed by a time of visiting and sharing.

Surviving is his son, Chad Ellis (Rachel) and their children, Savannah, Zachary, Madelyn, Bennett, Taylor and Addison; adopted son, Everette Ray Ellis and his children, Bethanie, Blaine and John Cannon; sisters, Joy Belle Finch and Bobbie Warenda (Raymond); twin brother, James “Jimmy” Warren Ellis (Ginny Lou) and sister-in-law, Peggy Pappas Ellis, all of Wilson.

He was “Uncle Johnny” to nephews, Bob, Tommy, Stevie, Claude, Mark, Matt, Jim and Joe and his nieces, Windi, Tracey, Jamie, Karen, Claren and Anna Belle and their many caring cousins.  Surviving also is Bonnie Wagner Tugwell and Ronnie Wagner, their caring brother-in-law, who assisted in their upbringing.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Thomas and Clara Belle Pridgen Ellis; grandparents including his beloved grandmother, Lillie Belle Pridgen; brother, Joesph Robert Ellis; nephew, Warren Chadwick Ellis and his dear aunts and uncles.

Subsequent to dutifully serving his country in the U.S. Army with 13 months in Vietnam, Johnny embarked on a dedicated 35 year career with Bridgestone/Firestone retiring in 2009.

He enjoyed riding and showing his walking horses with his brother, Jimmy, and special friends, Gordon and Angeline Ezzell.  When he could no longer ride, he enjoyed spending time at the barn watching his grandchildren ride.  He also enjoyed spending endless hours at the Beefmastor Restaurant, owned by his son Chad, giving his love and encouragement and at G&S Classic Motors with Regina and Gordon. He treasured his relationships with his siblings, most especially his twin brother, Jimmy, and his family and friends.

The family would like to thank Community Home Care and Hospice for all the loving care they provided.  A special thanks is extended to First Baptist Church and Adult 111 Sunday School Class for their love, support and prayers during his illness.

Memorials are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project, 1990 Fordham Dr, Ste 100, Fayetteville, NC 28304, St. Jude, 501 St. Jude Pl, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or to Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th St, Ste 609, New York, NY 10036.