James Bennett Ellis

GREENSBORO James Bennett Ellis passed away on December 18, 2016 at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital. A funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church Greensboro on Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at 1:30 in the afternoon. A visitation will follow the service in the atrium of the church. He will be buried at Fairview Cemetery in Liberty, NC. Jim was born on October 18, 1930 in Ramseur, NC to the late Walter W. Ellis and Grace Kidd Ellis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William C. Ellis, and his sister, Harriette Ellis Cox. Growing up in Randolph County, Jim graduated from Liberty High School. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force. A former deacon, Jim was a proud member of First Baptist Church, Greensboro and a lifetime member of the Greensboro Elks Lodge. Jim enjoyed a 44-year sales career in electronics and furniture. He was employed by Southern Radio for 23 years and was a member of the prestigious National RCA Excel Club for 13 of its 16 years. He was the only salesman to earn membership for 13 consecutive years. Jim enjoyed watching UNC football and basketball games as well as working at Sears as a sales associate after his retirement, where he was able to see many old friends and meet many new ones. Jim is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carolyn Slawter Ellis, their son Craig A. Ellis (Judy) and daughter Allison Ellis Brannock (Noel), four grandchildren, Craig A. Ellis Jr., Brooke Medinger (Barry), Ashley Bell (Phillip) and Patricia Ellis; and the joy of his life, great-granddaughter, Charleigh Grace; and his sister Patty Ellis Staley (George) along with several nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Daniel R. Bensimhon and his staff for their amazing care, support and compassion. They would also like to thank the nurses at Advanced Home Care for their continued care. Jim loved life! He loved spending time with his family. He loved his friends and neighbors. He loved people! He never met a stranger and he will be deeply missed. Memorial contributions may be made to be sent to First Baptist Church Greensboro, 1000 W Friendly Ave, Greensboro, NC 27401 or the American Heart Association, 7029 Albert Pick Rd Ste. 200, Greensboro, NC 27409. Online condolences may be offered at www.forbisanddick.com. Forbis and Dick North Elm Street Chapel is assisting the family.