Obituary published on Legacy.com by Sperry-McHoul-Pichi Funeral Home on Aug. 19, 2024.
ATTLEBORO – Geoffrey S. Ellis, 65, of Attleboro, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at home with his loving family by his side, after a long and valiant battle with Parkinson's disease. He was the beloved husband of Claire A. (Bedard) Ellis, to whom he was wed on September 24, 1983.
Born on June 20, 1959, in Plainville, MA, Geoff was the cherished son of the late Richard N. Ellis and Geraldine D. (Smith) Ellis. He grew up in Plainville and was a 1977 graduate of King Philip High School. Geoff furthered his education by earning an associate's degree in engineering from Johnson & Wales University.
Throughout his career, Geoff was employed by various companies, most recently Wind River Systems in Canton, MA, before retiring several years ago. He also worked at Ineo Quest Technologies in Mansfield, Data General Corporation in Westborough, Charles River Data Systems in Framingham, and began his career at Foxboro Company, where his dedication led them to support his education while he worked in the mailroom.
Geoff was an avid New England Patriots fan and held season tickets for almost twenty years. He also had a passion for sports and competition, enjoying activities such as bowling, racquetball, and ping pong. At 17, Geoff experienced a life-changing diving accident that resulted in temporary paralysis. His determination and strength led to a remarkable recovery. Geoff continued to thrive until being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at age 50, facing this challenge with the same resilience.
Geoff had a talent for home improvement projects, renovating his family's first home and assisting in building their second. He also took great pride in his yard, always keeping it pristine. A lover of video games, Geoff enjoyed playing on the Atari and Nintendo consoles, with a particular obsession for the computer game Metroid.
Geoff's favorite moments were spent in the company of his adoring family. Having come from a smaller family, his friends became his extended family. He was a devoted and selfless friend, always willing to lend a helping hand and cherished by many for his kindness and generosity.
In addition to his beloved wife of nearly forty-one years, Claire, Geoff is survived by his children: Samantha Y. Larrimer and her husband David of Attleboro; and Matthew R. Ellis of Seoul, South Korea. He is also survived by his uncle Dennis Smith and his wife Shirley of York, PA; and his cousins, Denise, Timothy, Dennis, Tina, and Susan. Geoff leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, and countless lifelong friends, including Robert Sousa of Harwichport, MA. He was predeceased by his sister, Amy Lynn Ellis.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home, 15 Grove Street, North Attleboro. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. A funeral service celebrating Geoff's life will commence at 7:00 PM in the funeral home, officiated by the Reverend Pamela Corcoran. Interment will take place privately at a later date.
Geoff was a selfless supporter of numerous charities, with
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital being his favorite. In lieu of flowers, donations in Geoff's memory may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.stjude.org
Geoff will be remembered for his unwavering strength, kindness, and generosity. He touched the lives of many with his selfless nature, infectious spirit, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy of resilience and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew him.