Ellis Shirley Frazier

Ellis Shirley Frazier was born in rural Alabama and raised in the small community of Evergreen. The eldest of five children, he grew up in a home shaped by love, faith, and the quiet courage of his parents, Ellis and Cora Lee. Throughout his life, he often said that his story was not about accomplishments or recognition, but about the people who shaped his character.
Ellis attended Evergreen High School, where he developed a lifelong love for athletics and teamwork. He went on to attend Troy State University on both football and basketball scholarships, forming relationships and experiences that shaped the direction of his life. After two years at Troy, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Ellis began his calling as a coach and educator. He coached in Hurst, Texas, Lyeffion, Alabama, Greensboro, Alabama, and Eastland, Texas, ultimately completing his 25-year coaching career in Taylor, Texas, where he proudly coached the Taylor Ducks. He influenced generations of students and athletes, not only on the field and court, but in life.
After retiring from coaching, Ellis continued to serve his community as an Allstate Insurance agent for more than 20 years, guiding families with the same honesty and care that defined every part of his life. Ellis also served as a Deacon in the Baptist Church for 50 years, living out his faith through quiet service, humility, and compassion.
In 2025, he was honored with his induction into the Taylor Ducks Hall of Fame, a recognition of his unwavering dedication to the students, families, and community he loved.
The greatest blessing of his life was his wife of 68 years, Beth, whose faith and courage carried them through both joy and heartbreak. Together, they endured the tragic loss of their infant daughter, Angela, and relied on God for strength and peace. Beth devoted nearly forty years to nurturing and teaching children, shining the same spirit of compassion that Ellis admired deeply.
Ellis cherished his family above all. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought him tremendous joy. A simple call - "Just checking on you. I love you." - meant more to him than anything.
He believed in living with honesty, kindness, and quiet faith. He believed in telling people you love them while you still can. He believed in leaving the world better than you found it.
In his own written words:
"My hope and prayer is that I have lived a life that influenced or provided guidance to the people I have come in contact with. The Lord has blessed me. To all of you here today - thank you, and God bless you."
Ellis is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Beth Frazier; his children, Abby Frazier Redmon, Brad and his wife Denise Frazier, and Bobby and his wife Donna Frazier. He is also survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: O'Brien and his wife Bailey Frazier and their children Braxton and Carter; Holly and her husband Ben Reed and their children Karsyn and Rylee; Nichole and her husband Travis Sills and their children Hannah, Parker, and Andrew; Kayla and her husband Seth Farrington and their children Taytum, Tate, and Hensleigh; Macy Frazier and Brody Frazier.
Ellis Shirley Frazier is deeply loved. He will be deeply missed. And his legacy will continue in every life he touched.
Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM Friday, November 14, 2025 at Baird First Baptist Church, 240 Race Street, with C.V. Blake officiating. Burial will follow in Ross Cemetery.
Visitation will be 5:30 to 7:30 PM Friday, November 21, 2025 at First Baptist Church, 2500 Mallard Lane in Taylor. A Memorial Service honoring Ellis' life will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, November 22, 2025 at First Baptist Church in Taylor.
In honor of Coach Frazier, donations may be made to the Shirl Frazier Scholarship. Checks may be mailed to: Taylor ISD Attn: Frazier Scholarship 3101 North Main Street, Suite 104 Taylor, TX 76574
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