George Franklin Ellis Jr., entered the gates of heaven Thursday morning, April 18, 2019. He was lovingly known by family and friends as Junior. He always had a smile, a joke, and a story to tell.
Junior retired from Southern Wood Piedmont. He loved the outdoors. Anytime of the year, he would find an outdoor project to work on. For many years, he had a beautiful garden and shared his harvest with others. Junior lived life simply, and yet, to the fullest, through all God had provided him.
Junior was born Jan. 29, 1925, in Columbus county to Lila Grace and George Ellis Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Bessie Ellis; sister, Bernice Grimsley; brothers, Clyde, Joe and Harold Ellis; and precious dog, Toby.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Ellis; stepson, Rick Kaufman; two stepdaughters, Lisa Leonhardt (Doug) and Karen Kaufman; sisters-in-law, Lois King (Mickey), Gail Nunn and Sandi Norris; and special extended family members, Eula Mae (Buck) Potter and Margo Richardson. Junior is also survived by seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Dr. James Appel, Dr. Greg Viehman, Dr. Matthew Messier and their medical staff for the excellent care they gave Junior over the years.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., Tuesday, April 23, at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, 3915 Oleander Drive, Wilmington. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. with interment following in the Ellis-Peterson Cemetery near Bolton.
The kiss of the sun for pardon. The song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden. Than anywhere else on earth. Author, Dorothy Frances Gurney.
Share online condolences with the family at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral & Cremation Service.
