Steven Mark Ellis

Steven Mark Ellis, born on July 20, 1958, in Cincinnati, Ohio, decided that May 25, 2025, was a suitable day to check out of this big blue planet at the age of 66. He left us from Wilmington, North Carolina, where he had gained quite a fan club during his tenure as a Customer Service Representative at Harris-Teeter on Oleander Drive. His customers and coworkers revered him not just for his customer service skills, but also for his uncanny ability to sprinkle his mischievous spirit into everyday interactions. Steve never met a stranger; instead, he turned everyone he encountered into a friend.
Growing up in Charlotte, Steve's playful antics laid the foundation for the man who would later become a rabid Carolina Panthers fan and a lover of Wrightsville Beach. However, his true devotion was always directed towards his family and friends. Armed with a heart of gold, there wasn't a soul who crossed his path that Steve didn't try to help.
He leaves behind Sharon Pepevnik Ellis, his beloved wife of 34 years, their daughter Tayler Matrice Ellis of Raleigh, NC, and two granddaughters, Ava Norton and Willow River Smith, who were undeniable favorites in his universe. His two brothers, Van Ellis (Sally) of Sherrills Ford, NC, and Chris Ellis of Fort Mill, SC, along with sister Gail Wherry (Mark) of Fuquay-Varina, NC, carry on the family's legacy of quick wit and charm. He also leaves a stepson, Dustin Reid Smith of Delco, NC, a sister-in-law, Anna Ellis of Pineville, NC, and a host of nieces and nephews. Special mention goes to his "adopted daughters," Lauren Posey and Rebecca Goldston, who added extra sparkle to his life.
Preceding Steve in the great scoreboard of life were his parents, Richard Gene Ellis and Mary Marcia Lindsay Ellis, as well as his devoted and beloved big brother and biggest fan, Kim Ellis.
To commemorate his vibrant life, a Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Chapel at Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403, with a gathering to follow. The Ellis family sincerely thanks Steve's multitude of friends for their unwavering support and affection.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Coastal Horizons, ensuring that Steve's generous spirit continues to touch lives.
These arrangements are being handled by Wilmington Funeral & Cremation - Wilmington Chapel. You can leave your words and stories for Steve at www.wilmingtoncares.com. So long, dear Steve-you've been promoted to heavenly antics and endless laughs up above. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steven, please visit our floral store.To make a memorial donation, please visit the donations section of this obituary.