William Gaines Ellyson

1938 - 2022

ELLYSON, William Gaines, known to all as Billy, died peacefully surrounded by his wife and daughters at Rappahannock Westminster Canterbury in Kilmarnock on June 3, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Catherine Jordan Ellyson; and his children, Kitty (TJ Dupree), Sally (Kurt Jaskowiak) and Billy (Janelle Ellyson); his six grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Fanny. He is also survived by his sister, Sally Ellyson (Jerry Esposito). He was preceded in death by his brother, Robby Ellyson.

Billy was born on January 5, 1938 to Louise McAdams Withers and William Ellyson Jr. He graduated from St. Christopher's School and received his undergraduate degree from Trinity College in Connecticut, followed by his law degree from the University of Richmond. He practiced law from 1979 until his retirement in 2013.

Some of Billy's favorite moments from a life he deeply enjoyed included: skiing and sailing with his family, reading and writing philosophy, membership in his men's group and a book group that lasted over 30 years. He especially loved his brief stint teaching religion at St. Catherine's School.

Billy believed in promoting the freedom of others and this was a hallmark of his law practice and his life. He was warm and loving and a little bit wild.

Funeral services will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal church on River Road in Richmond on Saturday, June 18 at 11 a.m. Reception will follow.