Ronald Ellis

Ronald J. Ellis was born March 23rd, 1947, to the parents of Otis George Ellis and Naomi Juanita Ellis in Toledo, Ohio. Having lived in several great cities, he departed from this life on Father’s Day, June 22nd, 2009. The third of five individually gifted siblings, Ron was perfectly positioned within a family filled with the rigors and rewards of having hard working parents. Known by many early on as “Ronnie,” he clearly delivered the proper dose of engagement, excitement, and encouragement amongst his siblings. Ron led an active schedule during his days at Libbey High School that included a position on the basketball team and later as part of Omega Psi Phi at St. Augustine College where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. From there, he launched a professional career in retail sales and began building a beautiful family. A member of Braden United Methodist Church, Ron spent most of his life understanding the power of faith, being a servant to others, and participating in ways that would make the least and left out appreciate the joy of being in his company. The gift of conversation. Two daughters, NaShandra Ellis-Hicks and Lolita (Darryl) Samuel, two sons, Kaz Harris and Torin (Niki) Ellis all of MD, hold dear and live out the passion of their father. Ron embraced seven vibrant grand children, Salathiel, Nadya, Seth, Che, Aislinn, Ryan, and Noah. Also left to cherish his memories: (sister) Elaine of London, (brothers) Fred (Norvella) of CA, Lewis (Luverrain), and Clarence (Arnetta) Ellis, and a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends . If Ron were here, he’d enjoy his brothers, his only sister, his children and their mother, whom we know he loves. If he were here, reading and studying God’s word would be an integral part of his day. If he were here, there would be laughter, a game of chess or pool, and the effort to be less of a stranger to those he didn’t know. So outgoing. If he were here, he’d thank so many. He’d start with God for all that He had done and end with Dr. Palmer for being a quiet and forceful inspiration after the loss of his father. He’d be bold and continue to pursue that which he believed was meant for he was not one to give up. If he were here we’d most certainly thank him. Wake service will be 10a.m. Monday followed by funeral service at 11a.m. at Dale-Riggs Funeral Home Chapel Pastor Wynston E. Dixon officiant. Burial Historic Woodlawn Cemetery.

Ronald Ellis

June 21, 2009