Calvin Ellis

ELLIS, CALVIN of Philadelphia, PA, the youngest son of the late William and Helen "Peggy" Ellis was born on January 23, 1939. Calvin, who was affectionately called Bones or Pop Bones, was raised in North Philadelphia along with his sister Virginia (deceased) and two brothers Donald & Staunton (deceased). He was definitely his Momma's baby boy, they shared a very special bond and he could do no wrong. He was educated in the Philadelphia Public Schools. As a young father Calvin helped his mother raised his four young children, Calvin Jr. (deceased), Helen, Deanna & Deborah (deceased), after the death of their mother. Calvin was known for his smooth demeanor. He enjoyed the finer things in life from his cars to clothing. He also loved gathering at the family home for the delicious food that was always being prepared. He loved listening to the Oldies and watching hours of old movies. Calvin was also an avid Bowler, winning many trophies during his playing days. Calvin was many things to many people: favorite brother, favorite uncle, favorite in-law and favorite disciplinarian; the one Momma would always say she was going to call to 17th Street when the children were acting up. Calvin began his employment at the early age of 13. During the 60's and 70's he was self-employed as the owner of a GETTY gas station and automotive garage located at 33rd & Allegheny. In 1978 Calvin was in the very first graduating class of the Resorts International Dealers School of Atlantic City specializing in Craps and Blackjack. After 30 years in the Casino industry, he ended his career as a Floor Supervisor at Bally's retiring in 2007. In 1984 he met and years later married his loving wife Ernestine Ragland. Together they shared a great love for each other. This union produced his baby girl; Lau'Ren, the apple of his eye. Just two weeks ago Calvin attended a training class In Mays landing to prepare him for Election Day as a Poll Worker for the upcoming Presidential Election. Calvin was baptized on Monday, October 13, 2008 by Monsignor Jackson of The Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Suddenly on Thursday, October 16, 2008 God peacefully summoned Calvin home. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Ernestine; five daughters, Helen, Deanna, Wendy, Sherry and Lau'Ren: son Stephen; mother in law, Joan Ragland; son-in-law Dwain Tate; daughter-in-law Yolanda Ellis; 15 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; brother, Donald; 3 Nieces, Margaret, Lucille and his favorite Judy; 4 brother in laws; 4 sister in laws; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Viewing will be Monday, October 27, 2008 at Church of Annunciation from 9:00am-11:00am located at 324 Carpenter Lane Philadelphia, PA. Funeral Service will begin at 11:00am. Interment Ivy Hill Cemetery