John Harley Ellis

John Harley Ellis December 13, 1922 – July 6, 2025 John (Johnny) H. Ellis, of Jonesville, born to William A. and Lucy J. Ellis on December 13, 1922 in Oakwoods , N.C. (Wilkesboro), passed away peacefully July 6, 2025 with two of his compassionate care givers by his side. Johnny was preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Pauline (Polly) Ellis; his son Lanny G. Ellis; his parents; one brother and sister-in-law Archie and Ruby Ellis; four sisters and brothers-in-law Winnie and Hazel Stroud, Annie Lee and Glen Anderson, Alta and Al Barker, and Ruth and Eddie Cheek. Johnny is survived by his daughter, Kay Ellis of Lewes, Delaware; his special grandson Scott Ellis (Charlotte) and Great granddaughters Olivia Ellis (Charlotte) and Abigail Ellis (Greenville, S.C.); his beloved granddaughter Melissa E. Schuth and Great granddaughter Mia Schuth (Charlotte); and his former daughter-in-law Peggy Ellis of Charlotte. Also surviving are a beloved extended family of nieces and nephews and their spouses. His special neighbors who were always there for him hold many fond memories in their hearts, and many loving friends were a special part of his life. All will miss him and his stories very much. Johnny was a member of Arlington First Baptist Church. During War World II, Johnny served his country in a civilian capacity working for the Glenn L. Martin Aircraft Co. in Baltimore, MD where he built parts for war planes, especially the B-52. Returning to NC, he was the owner/operator of Jonesville Esso for several years before working for and retiring as a Sales Representative at Parnell Martin Building and Supply. After his retirement, John (Johnny to most of his friends) could be found on the golf course winning yet another trophy or award, although he never took a golf lesson. Most mornings he could also be found at Village BBQ, then John Boy's, or later at Bojangles where he sat with many friends, retired and working, to share a ham biscuit with coffee to discuss the news of the day. Johnny was a friend to many, non-judgemental, never speaking an ill word of people and always willing to help a friend or share his garden. Having grown up during the Depression, his basement and shed were filled with "things" that could be used to fix anything. If someone wanted a part for something, Johnny probably had it. His motto was to "fix" something rather than throw it away. His love for nature and animals was obvious to anyone. He had been called the "dog whisperer" as he could get any dog to calm down and come to his gentle voice. The family would like to especially thank Johnny's Cadre of special care-givers who worked so selflessly to enable Johnny to remain in his home, and Cynthia Harris, who worked tirelessly to coordinate this effort. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a. Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at Arlington First Baptist Church with Pastor Chris Alford and The Rev. William J. Boyer (Mt. Airy), Chaplain, Retired U.S. Navy, officiating. The family will receive friends at the Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow the service in Crestwood Memorial Gardens. "A life well lived." John Kennedy, Funeral Director is assisting the Ellis family with funeral arrangements Online condolences may be made at www.jkennedyfsl.com