Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
JONAH ELLIS Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Susie Holden Smith
February 20, 2023
When we went out for dinner Jonah used to order his starter main and pudding all at once. There was never much room on the table I miss his funny ways and the way he made himself at home wherever he was. Love and blessing Jonah
Newman
February 9, 2023
Mr. Ellis!!! I tell people about him all the time. He was our elementary school music teacher at Gordon!! People always thought I was making it up. He was super serious when it came to music, & loved teaching it!! Kids & blues!!
Jasmine Nolen
February 24, 2021
Somehow I always make it back to your legacy page ! I Love you ❤ You’re the best ❤. All I’m hearing is a bass guitar & drums jamming to some blues
Joanne Johnson-Shaw
February 23, 2021
Mr. Ellis, Jonah we knew you when you were moving along in your journey. You inspired, encouraged and led by example. You live because you are remembered. Who could forget that big smile. Much love. Joanne of UMES.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Sue Holden Smith
February 22, 2021
Jonah you are always in my heart, Blessings and love to all those whose lives you touched. ❤
Ron Cruz
February 20, 2021
Always on our minds, and forever in our hearts. You are sorely missed, The fond memories remain with us all.
Glo Hyman
November 1, 2020
Many years have passed and you will always be missed.
Your loving family
J. Leon Peace, Jr.
September 13, 2020
I just recently found out about Jonah’s passing as I prepared to attend the funeral of Dr. William Penn (Squeeze) Sweezer, Jr. - the Bass player with the Uhuru Unltd. Band at Michigan State Univ. I took his position playing guitar for Uhuru after Jonah left East Lansing and I remember his many Hendrix-like playing style. I have now been in the DC area for more than 20yrs and I had no idea: (1) of his great musical success after he left MSU; (2) that all time I’ve been here he was so close by; and (3) we had so much in common. Jonah was the first big-time musician I ever saw as a freshman at MSU, and I remember well when he, Squeeze, Jo Loyd, Roger Groves, Bam Bam, and Uhuru opened for Stevie Wonder at MSU. SW called them all back out onto the stage and they got to play along with him. May these memories carry on.
Courtney Jackson
March 27, 2020
It's crazy how i just thought about you out of the blue. You was a wonderful instructor and musician. Love and happiness Mr. Ellis
March 9, 2020
I knew all the Temps they were a bunch of great guys. Went with them to a lot of performances that were here in California
Jonah was a great musician and a special person. So sorry for his passing years ago
Sue Holden Smith
February 20, 2019
To dearest Jonah. Always thought of with love. Remembering the wonderful times we spent in London, Memphis and LA. So touching to read the wonderful memories of your pupils to whom you gave so much ❤
February 14, 2019
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Andrea Wilson
December 2, 2018
Mr.Ellis was and is the greatest music teacher ever had. I miss him dearly he taught my music class from the time I was in kindergarten up until the 5th grade I still remember the days miss Malone came and told us he was gone ... I love you Mr.Ellis
Lynn Gilmour
April 21, 2018
I would love to see a photo of Jonah when he was The musical director with the Drifters in the late 1970's as I new him then and was upset at his passing .
H PARKE
April 12, 2018
KNEW JONAH & THE WHALE FROM KNOXVILLE, AND IN 1979-80 WHEN YARBROUGH & PEOPLES WERE IN DENVER . JONAH WAS SUPER TALENT AS SHOWN BY THE WORK HE DID WITH THE GAP BAND & CHARLIE WILSON. TRULY A GREAT PERSON WITH GREAT PERSONALITY. MAY HE REST IN PEACE AS HE DID MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE . HE LEFT SOME GREAT MUSIC FOR THE WORLD TO ENJOY.
Sue Holden-Smith
July 20, 2017
Your peace rose is beautiful this year. Full of love just as your life was. Love always Sue ❤
July 19, 2017
Jonah, you were always just the best!! Thank you for giving us the biggest hit ever, and the most awesome friendship. We miss you so very much!
Cavin & Lois (Yarbrough & Peoples)
Van Pruitt
April 26, 2017
Hey you was the best band teacher I ever had and I thank you so much and miss you I stay being about you miss you and love you
Joanne Johnson-Shaw
June 29, 2016
Every year I receive notice of a writing in your guest book. It makes me smile because a person lives on forever in the memory of others. I hope that you knew how much you meant to so many. I have a piano, a guitar and I still have the love but not the talent. You were gifted. Until next time...
Chestina Hansy
June 27, 2016
This morning, thoughts of you dropped in my spirit. I was injured at a concert at UMES back in the 70's and you became my hero! You pushed those people out of the way and lifted that HUGE table off my legs. Thank you! You then, carried me to safety and stayed with me until the ambulance arrived. We became very close friends after that. As many people do, we too lost touch when you relocated. Your talent on the eastern shore still lives in the heart of many. When I look at my legs and people question the scar, I tell my Jonah story! You are the only man/person I knew that could play a guitar with their feet! I Amazing! RIP my friend! Love you!
Jasmine Nolen
February 24, 2016
Mr . Ellis Im Just Thinking About You . Love You
Sue Holden Smith
February 11, 2015
Remembering you at this time and the joy we shared. Wonderful to read all these beautiful quotes and to see how many people and children you inspired. Jonah you are very missed. Always in my heart Sue xx
Pennie Sutherland (Bynum)
February 2, 2015
Cuz
I never got that second chance to see you again. But, I did hear your voice. After ALL the years that went by not knowing where my talent came from and realizing it must to have been you. I am a hidden Musician now in the Music Industry building my own Empire of bands, owning, producing, arranging & composing the music you held in your heart for me to carry on in your memory. I dedicate this gift of music to you. Wishing you well and my success is your continued dream even in Heaven. Rest In Peace. I will tell you ALL about it when I get there.
Cuz Pennie
Shelia Morris
June 3, 2014
Jonah I'm so saddened. I learned of your passing memorial day weekend. I lost touch in 2007 with you when I was having some health issues. Remembering and cherishing all our wonderful times together. I will never forget that beautiful and gorgeous smile. God truly blessed you with all your talents and blessed me the day I meet you. Keep on singing and "Don't Stop The Music" I love and miss you. R.I.P
VANDREIL PRUITT
March 19, 2014
Heeeeyy I really miss you..February 22 2010 GOD CALLED HIS ANGEL HOME.I CRIED FOR MONTHS AND MONTHS I JUST COULDN'T BELIEVE IT.BUT AS I GOT OLDER I STARTED TO REALIZING WHY YOU WERE ALWAYS SO HARD ON ME.LOL BUT YOU WANTED TO CREATE A STRONG, DETERMINED PERSON. LOL WELL YOU DID. AND I'M VERY DETERMINED TO CARRY ON YOUR LEGACY .I MAT NOT NEVER WIN A GRAMMY BUT I'M GONNA KEEP ON SINGING. I LOVE U AND I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU AGAIN
Vandreil Pruitt
March 14, 2013
I Remember When you made me sing Lead for the first time I was So Scared to Get Out There Infront of All those people, You looked at Me And Said Its ShowTime You Can Do It ..I took a Deep Brethe. I got On that Stage And It was Such An Amazing Feeling You taught me Everything Iknow about Music And Ihope Someday I can do The Same..I ThankGod For Sending Me Mr.Ellis, We share Alot of Great Memories..ILove And Miss You ?
December 31, 2012
Jonah only read you passed today we spent 2 wonderful months together in London 28 years ago but Ive never forgotten you.You were one of the very special people of this world, You will always have a very special place in my heart.Rest in peace gorgeous man ..much love ..your little Aussie girl xxxx
Jasmine N
December 15, 2012
Dear Mr.Ellis just thinking how you told us to never give up . Im about to become a rapper Mr.Ellis . I just wanted to let you know from all that you taught me im about to put more unto it and become something bigger and better Mr.Ellis Love you Alwayz until the end.
Jasmine Nolen
December 13, 2012
Mr.Ellis I miss you so much . I miss when we use to play I don't like the blues,Mr.Postman , Stand by me I miss them times . I was in the fourth grade when you died . I wish you could just come back one week
Jasmine N
December 8, 2012
Mr.ellis it's so hard to say goodbye still I miss you sometimes I just wish kids n blues could start back because I miss the guidance you put in me I just wish you could come back
Courtney Jackson
November 10, 2012
i will never forget you
Joanne Johnson-Shaw
October 24, 2012
So many pass this way, but I think you take the cake on longevity and memories. I am not surprised, you were awesome as a person as well as a musician. You used to play the Ohio Players "Pain". That's what I feel when I think of you gone. Joanne, UMES 1972
Dawn
October 23, 2012
Will always remember you
Diamond Jamison
September 19, 2012
I Love you All the time i could remember when you put gum on my nose
Vandreil Pruitt
August 7, 2012
Never would've Imagine you Leaving.when i found out you passed I could barely breathe you was like my father.Words cant even explain how much i truly Love & Miss You.You made me the young girl iam today.Which is if I want something i had to believe to recieve.Juss cant believe you gone though..Through all these tears we all shed we just Glad you in a Safe & better place .With god. <3
lashamieanne gant
April 19, 2012
U are still greatly missed! You were my favorite teacher ever! I loved and still miss singin in kids n blues. love you mr. ellis
Your Neice Glo
March 31, 2012
Jonah, it has been two years since you left your family and the family miss you very much. We have not seen your children, and maybe they need time to grieve. The Bynum Family Day is schedule for July 7, and we will rejoice your name again on this day. We love you Jonah.
Deborah Wilson-Taylor
March 19, 2012
In talking to a college friend I found out the Mr. Ellis had passed. He was my band director at the Univ. of Md. Eastern Shore in 1971-72. He was awesome then!
Deborah Wilson-Taylor 1971-75
HAWKS
Harry earley
March 2, 2012
jonah its been 2 years and will always remember our last visit. my wife and you and myself went and seen dennis edwards and went back stage and rattled his memory of you with the temps and me of 46years before he was with them.you wanted us to spend the night with you but we told you we had to get back to our daughter who had cancer. well we lost her in october just getting around to this look over my babby jonah. not hardly a day goes by that your friends and myself don't talk about you we love you and miss you.
sue holden smith
February 21, 2012
Remembering you at this time Jonah. You are only ever a thought away. God bless and love Sue x
joanne holden
February 21, 2012
we miss you so much Jonah. You are always remembered with love Joanne Gabby Kathy and Billy (Sue's mum and dad)
Sue Holden Smith
February 13, 2012
Darling Jonah your Valentines all arrived late but are treasured. It is wonderful to read in all these tributes how much you remain in people's hearts. I am grateful to Glo for keeping everyone who loved you in touch. Love always Sue x
Glo Hyman
February 13, 2012
Jonah, it is going on two years now and the family has missed you so much. In your memory, we are still having Family Day. This year it will be July 7 @12:00a thru July 8 @ 3:00a.. Call Glo for details : # 864-316-3632
maria hegedus
January 26, 2012
MY DARLING JONAH. YOU MAY REST IN PEACE.
victoria brown
December 15, 2011
ive always luvved hem even doe he was hard on us it broke my heart wen he passed
Bill Melville
February 19, 2011
I'm so sorry hear about the huge lost to not only the music community but to mankind. I to was blessed to play with Jonah at MSU with Uhuru Unlimited. Not only did he affect our group musically, but our lives,then and forever. GOD BLESS you JONAH and your family. Bill Melville known at MSU as bam bam.
Joseph Loyd
February 14, 2011
Just found out... I know it's been close to a year. I pray that you are still finding comfort with God. ... Jonah played in my band ( Uhuru Unlimited) at Michigan State..he was a GREAT entertainer...I play drums. One thing that Jonah share with me when we were getting ready to open up for Stevie Wonder....he advised me to change my traditional grip so I could slap the snare drum ...& if you ask any of my musician friends & other musicians they will say I keep a STRONG POCKET...& I give that CREDIT to...JONAH...May God continue to Bless your family & friends....
Performing On Beale Street
Gordon Elementary School
December 18, 2010
Jonah Ellis was an awesome, passionate, talented teacher who spent the last fourteen (14) years of his life teaching music and inspiring students at Gordon Elementary School (Memphis, Tennessee). The following web page was created to honor his memory.
http://www.mcsk12.net/schools/gordon.es/site/Mr.Ellis.htm
William F. Armstrong
December 5, 2010
God knows best and He rewards only the Best. I had spoken with Jonah recently after many years of not knowing how to reach him. We spoke of the good old days back at Maryland State College and the times he performed in Cambridge, Maryland at the Elk Lodge. We had talk about the possibilty of him returning to UMES during the 2011 Homecoming. I was sadden to hear of his passing, truly going to miss him. Jonah was a well respected Brother, one who took the time to "make the world a better place". May the Family take comfort in knowing that he has won the race and now rest in the presence of God. May God Bless And Keep You.
William F. Armstrong, MSC,Class of 70, The Best and Last.
Joanne Johnson-Shaw
December 1, 2010
Just learning of Jonah's passing. I thought you made an impression on our little world of University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and here we find out what an impression you made on the world. My heart is heavy at your passing.
Duke Anderson
August 8, 2010
My condolences to the family of Jonah, and would like to remember his inspiration to many of us at Md Eastern Shore in the early seventies.
July 25, 2010
So sorry to hear of Jonah's passing. I followed him as MD of The Drifters in the UK in '77, and played with him in Bermuda as well. R.I.P.
Mack Brandon Teaneck, NJ
JACKIE JENKINS
June 30, 2010
Jonah the music has never stoped - your drummer in JONAH AND THE WHALE.
JACKIE JENKINS, BOWIE,MD
June 29, 2010
To the Ellis Family, I just heard of Jonah's passing!!!!!! My name is Jackie Jenkins I was Johah's female drummer in Jonah's Band - Jonah and the Whales "back in the day". If someone knows how to contact his brother "Bob" please give him my #202/251-6919. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL - PEACE AND BLESSINGS JONAH...
Linda (Munoz) Mason
May 12, 2010
To Jonah's family I extend my sincere sympathy at his passing. He was my flute teacher at UMES and inspired me to "step out of my comfort zone" and play from my heart, when he wrote LOVE SONG for me to play. For so many years I have wished that I had kept a copy of his music. His encouragement and professionalism remain a positive and inspiring influence on me today. His smile still makes me smile.
Shirley Wilson
April 25, 2010
It was a delight to meet you Jonah when Sue brought to our home. Your warmth radiated joy and it felt like we had been friends for ever. The love that you and Sue shared warmed our hearts. May you be held in the arms of God.
Capri Fields-Kent
April 8, 2010
Almeta, Ashley and Amber, your Dad loved you so much. He had a smile that would light up the room. When he spoke of the three of you his whole face would shine with a twinkle in his beautiful eyes. His smile reminded me of sunshine. Many times we would look at the clouds and the heavens. He would comment on how beautiful he thought it looked. I know on beautiful sunny days I will think of him and know that he is smiling down on us. He will always be in our hearts and our memories cherished. Dear sweet Jonah, rest in peace with the lord. Know that you are very very loved on this earth and missed terribly.
Forever in my heart,
Love Always, Capri
Ms. T.T. Roberson- Principal, Gordon Elem.
March 30, 2010
The students at Gordon Elementary were truly privileged to have had Jonah Ellis as their music teacher for fourteen years. Mr. Ellis was both a talented musician and an excellent teacher who taught students to love and appreciate all kinds of music and to perform music at high levels. His imaginative, innovative, and exciting style of teaching was a joy to observe. He taught his students with power, grace and elegance. The music he left us will live forever in our hearts and minds.
Valerie Welch
March 14, 2010
We had the pleasure of meeting you Jonah on your visits to England visiting Sue.
We were so sorry and sad to hear of your passing and hope those who you loved will find comfort in the knowledge that God is taking care of you.
Jonah in your memory Sue organised a family and friends gathering. We stood in her garden. Jessica said a few words about you, Sue released a heart shaped balloon, lit two paper lanterns, we toasted your life and said Goodbye.
You will always be in all our hearts with affectionate memories.
Saundra White Hall
March 4, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about Jonah. He
was a very nice person. I met him at
Morristown College.
ashley scott
March 4, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Bradarius Knapp
March 4, 2010
you will be missed but never forgoting
March 3, 2010
Jonah was a friend of mine at KC. It gave me so much pleasure when he began to return to our homecoming activities. It brought back all the memories when he and the "Whales" played in Knoxville and the surrounding area. Jonah, you will truly be missed. Keep the heavens singing and dancing with your music.
Love,
Bert Webb Lanauze '68
Jazzmine Alexander
March 3, 2010
To Mr.Ellis my music teacher from kndergarden to 5th grade. Thanks for being hard on me like you did. We had soo much fun performing in KIDS N' BLUES. Those were my best years! Now that I am in high school I only have pictures of us at school. I used to hate my daddy when he took all those pictures but now I am glad he did. Thanks is not enough but thanks for everything
Helen Wilkins
March 2, 2010
Jonah, I am your oldest niece and would like to say that I love you very much. Your were the greatest uncle of all time. I loved the way you looked at me as a sister. I know you did listen to me when I told you what to eat and what not to eat, even though you pretended you did'nt listen. I will miss you so very,very,very much.
James Valle
March 1, 2010
Jonah, I met you while living in L.A. back in 1989 when your nephew James McLeod jr. was visiting. You will be missed but your music will live one. Your a great man and a legend!!
Peaches Deal
March 1, 2010
To My Dear Sweet Uncle Jonah:
I will miss you so much, thanks for all the talks and all the encouragement you always gave me. You were such a great uncle, one of the best. Always trying to keep our family together no matter what. We honor you now and forever Uncle Jonah. There will be a tribute in Washington DC held for your memory. We are planning now. You are a musical genious and we will celebrate your life all year long. We won't ever forget you..Don't Stop The Music
Carolyn Ellis
March 1, 2010
You are a musical Legend, a great educator, superior family man. You taught me as your neice to be compationate and caring. I will alway's remember your kindness. You kept the spirit of being a father when my dad passed on to Gods Kingdom. I hope you are resting. "Don't Stop The Music", I'm sure you never will.
Ron Cruz
March 1, 2010
Jonah,you will be profoundly missed for many reasons. I respected and admired you greatly. Thank you for visiting us in NY, your kind words, encouragement and wisdom. I will miss you at the Joyner breakfast table, especially making Rosa Mae's famous biscuits together. R.I.P. Uncle Jonah!
Clifford Cotton II
February 28, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the family, so long old friend. John carry on the Music..
Gator
February 28, 2010
Jonah finished KC the year before i arrived, but he returned homecoming of my frosh year and he and his nephew "the whale" jammed in front of the college center, i will never forget that day! God Bless Jonah!
Joyce Brown
February 27, 2010
Jonah, God sends people like you into our lives for various reasons that we don't always understand. Although we wanted you to stay with us, you had to go because God has other plans for you. We shared some many beautiful times together and I will cherish them always. Thank you Jonah, so much for the memories and the time spent.
Besides your music your greatest love was your family and especially your three lovely daughters who you spoke of so often with pride and much love. I know that you will continue to watch over them from your new home. So now rest Jonah. Your work is done. Just know that your music will live on forever and that you will be missed and loved always.
Love,
Joyce
Willie Muccing, '74
February 27, 2010
Fellow KCean, may you rest in peace.Great memories of you on campus doing what you enjoyed, playing your music.
Sean Foreman
February 27, 2010
I was lucky to have met you and will remember the fun we all had singing along with you playing the guitar.
You will be missed by many, but the memories will live on.
Sean
herbert alexander
February 27, 2010
Thanks for the memories and all that you did for the students at Gordon.The performances by KIDS N BLUES students were some the best I had the pleasure of witnesing , professional and entertaining.
Herbert Alexander,parent of Jazzmine
Erma Jones
February 27, 2010
I remember seeing him at one or two Homecomings and just something about his demeanor made me feel that I had been a friend of his. May God's blessings be with his friends and family and all who knew him.
Erma Jones, '65
Carol Walker
February 27, 2010
I met Jonah at Morristown College and again at Knoxville College. He was always a shining star and his music will forever play in my heart. KC 70
February 27, 2010
Mr. Ellis, I love you and will miss you forever. I appreciate everything you taught me in Kids in Blues. Victoria Brown, 4th Grade, Gordon Elementary
February 27, 2010
I remember Jonah from KC. I started out with him but was out a year so I graduated a year after he did. My prayers are with his family friends and classmates. To God be the glory. Brenda Hester Padgett KC '71
Danette Hardy, MCS teacher
February 27, 2010
I had the distinct opportunity of teaching with Mr. Ellis for the last 14 years where I was able to witness his talents and love for not only music, but for children. Mr. Ellis's contributions to the music industry and dedication to the Gordon Elementary students and staff was paramount. His countless acts of devotion has impacted many- both directly and indirectly. Mr. Ellis will truly be missed but his legacy will live on forever.
Mrs. Anissa R. Christian
February 27, 2010
Family,
I will always remember the drive and passion for music and the children of Gordon Elementary Mr. Ellis possessed. He was a jewel who will definitely will be missed! May God's peace surround you and his grace keep you during your time of bereavement.
February 26, 2010
I truely enjoyed the year we worked together at Levi Elelmentary. Mr. Ellis and I became good friends as well as good co-worker. He had a way about himself that drew people to him, that will make you like him. He will be truely missed. My symphony to the family and you are in my prayers. Coach Larry Dandridge
Keion Covington
February 26, 2010
I will miss you, Mr Ellis. I will always remember & cherish the music you taught me in "Kids In Blues".
Keion Covington
10yrs old
5th grade, Golden Elm. School
Brenda Stripling Nichols
February 26, 2010
Jonah was a fellow music major, a classmate and my friend. We shared many happy times together. Rest in peace my Buddy. Don't stop the music. KC '70
sue holden smith
February 26, 2010
I treasure every moment I have spent with you in England and US over the last few years and am so sad at your passing. I love you very much, and pray that you rest in peace and for the holy spirit to provide comfort for your family and all those that you have loved and love you,
It wasn't the ending we expected, but it was not in our hands. I will always miss you and am planting a Japanese Maple for you in m garden. Heartfelt love always Sue
Joseph Jordan
February 26, 2010
Thanks for the music. Thanks for being a friend and thanks for being you. I shall miss you, Jonah.
With deepest sympathy to the family.
Showing 1 - 86 of 86 results
Make a Donation
in JONAH ELLIS's name
How to support JONAH's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor JONAH ELLIS's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
