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Jeffrey Ellis Obituary


  
JEFFREY RIDGEWELL ELLIS (Age 66)  
Died unexpectedly on July 8, 2011. He was a loving husband to Judith Ellis; best friend and identical twin brother to Bruce Ellis; brother- in-law to Donna Ellis; dedicated father and father-in-law to Christine and Peter Hooper, Lisa and Chris Puchalla, Mathew and Margaret Ellis, Katie and Brian Dowling, Michael and Jen Ellis; and step-father to Darren and Kati Everett. He is also survived by his former wife and friend, Elizabeth Ellis. "Pop-pop" was adored by 14 grandchildren. Jeff is at peace in heaven with his parents, Clarence and Fifi Ellis, aunt, Mimi Ridgewell and niece, Julie Ellis LeMoult. He put his family and friends above all else and touched the lives of many others with his generosity and humor. The Jeffrey Ellis and Bruce Ellis families respect and cherish our friends who have often carried us in life and are now carrying us during this terrible time. At this time our emotions, collectively and individually, are still very raw and we need time to process this terrible tragedy. Thank you all for allowing us this valuable time to collect ourselves.  Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 26, 11 a.m. at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, 3630 Quesada St., NW, Washington, DC. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Jeffrey's name to Treasure Coast Hospice (www.tchospice.org/memorial-donation). If you would like to contribute a cherished memory of Jeff, the families would appreciate you visiting the Washington Post's Legacy.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Jul. 17, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Ellis

Not sure what to say?





Judy Ellis

July 11, 2025

I feel your presence, sitting next to me, holding you, kissing you, hearing your voice saying something silly to make me laugh. You live in my heart. I love you forever. Judy

Peter Scelfo

July 14, 2023

Still hurts.

Judy Ellis

July 11, 2023

My heart is filled with love for you, ad infinatum.

CDR Clair Wylie

July 11, 2021

Some people come into your life for a moment, & remain there forever. RiP Jeff.

July 11, 2020

Each life in this world is touched by love.

We are so very fortunate to have been loved by Jeffrey the consummate Southern Gentleman . Who has been and continues to be missed in our lives. Especially the brotherly talkies in the morning by the mail box with Summer chasing the tennis balls.

Happy Birthday and Rest In Peace, our true friend.
Love Always and Forever,
Wayne and Theresa

Always in our hearts, dear Jeffrey. We miss you deeply.

Ginny Cross

July 11, 2020

Always in our hearts dear Jeffrey. We miss you dearly. xoxo

Clair Wylie

July 11, 2020

There will always be a very special place in my heart for the man who made me look good to my boss . . and my husband! Working for a DC hostess became a lot easier once I met Jeff. RIP.

Norrie

August 16, 2012

Goodbyes are not forever.
Goodbyes are not the end.
They simply mean I'll miss you
Until we meet again!

Kymberly Taylor

July 20, 2012

Happy Birthday ! Thinking of you and hope you are shining up above!
Fondly,
Kym & Jack

Kathie Gerber

July 20, 2012

Happy Birthday Jeff. Hope you are having a great party!

we love you!

July 20, 2012

Happy birthday, sweetheart. Love always. Judy

July 20, 2012

Happy Happy Jeff ! Carpe Diem!
Joey

July 19, 2012

July 20, 2012

Happy Birthday

Art Rosenberg

July 10, 2012

I am saddened to learn of Jeff's passing. We spent many enjoyable and frustrating hours working together (along with Bruce) to launch a new lottery venture. Jeff was always positive and encouraging during the down times and inspired us to keep moving forward. I will miss his smile and jokes. I will always fondly remember the fun times on his boat and his generosity to others. Rest in peace my friend!

Joan, Danie and Alex LaRock

July 9, 2012

Jeff: Hard to believe it has been one year since you left us for heaven. No more suffering; you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Norrie

July 9, 2012

If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again

July 8, 2012

Jeff,
I should do miss ya. I'm glad you not in pain anymore. Keep that smile on your face.
Love always, Joey

I miss you so much. Six plus months since you left.

January 14, 2012

Rex Jenkins

August 18, 2011

Jeff,
You were a most kind and generous man. From offering up "The Reel Mistress" for our wedding to opening up your home and heart to all of your friends. The wonderful times that we have had together over the 27 years that we have known you were too numerous to share here. But, they live on in our hearts forever as you always will. We hope heaven was ready for that beautiful smile and easy way of yours. We already miss you........
Rex and Sunni Jenkins

"Our Gang" Party Time

Peter Scelfo

August 16, 2011

All Boating Expenses Justified!

Peter Scelfo

August 16, 2011

Pool Party at Jeff & Judy's

Peter Scelfo

August 16, 2011

Judy Ellis

August 15, 2011

Dear Jeff!! I am in a bed and breakfast in Mobile, Alabama and I KNOW you would NOT like this place---it does not have a tv in the room! Everywhere I go, I think of you and if you are seeing the beauty and sharing my experiences. You are in my heart, always, and I miss you so much. Forever, my love.

We love you Jeff and will always miss you.xoxo

Peter & Trish Scelfo

August 14, 2011

Cirque du Soleil at Washington Harbor

Peter Scelfo

August 14, 2011

Italy 1997

Dave Mullins

August 14, 2011

Italy 1997

Dave Mullins

August 14, 2011

Always the Joker!

Dave Mullins

August 14, 2011

Dave and Joyce Mullins

August 13, 2011

Joyce and I had some of our best times in the last 25 years with Jeff. We still can't believe there won't be more. One of the best was our trip to Italy with Jeff, Judy, the Marchesani's. Joyce and me. Please God take Jeff in you kingdom.

Jack Greenhalgh

August 10, 2011

Muriel and I are heartsick to learn of Jeff's passing. I have such enormous respect for this "giant" of a man. And to know that he was such a warm and sincere friend to both of us just adds to the pain. I will never forget so many wonderful memories of our business, golf and other social contacts. We will include both Jeff and his family in our prayers, peace for Jeff and healing for the family.

Alex LaRock

August 4, 2011

Jeff was such a wonderful person and will be missed by so many people. His charisma, smile, and sense of humor live on in so many memories and I think of him often. My deepest sympathy to Judy, Bruce, and the rest of the Ellis family.

August 3, 2011

From the moment I met you, eating dinner at the TV tables in your den, you were so accepting of me. You always made me smile and laugh. You treated me like one of your own. I will miss getting such a big hug every time I saw you. I will miss the fact that I never got off the phone with you without you saying that you love me. You were always so full of life. I will miss you so much. My girls will miss you and my husband will miss you more than you will ever know. I promise to take very good care of your baby boy. Love always, Jen Ellis

Ken Jobe

July 27, 2011

To the entire family and particularly Judy-- on behalf of all of Croatan our deepest condolences and sympathy. You know we miss you and Jeff. You were a vital part of the neighborhood. Your laughter and smile wilbe here forever. Best Wishes Ken Jobe CCL President

Danielle LaRock

July 27, 2011

I will always remember Jeff and how funny and caring he has always been. He has always been a great uncle, and I think of him often, especially his smile, hugs, jokes, and "hold still for one more picture". He is always with us.

July 26, 2011

Dear Judy and The Ellis Family, We will always remember his wonderful smile, his smooth disposition, generosity and just his fun loving ways and jokes. May he be pain free, happy, and may he rest in peace. Till we see you take care of yourself and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vern and Vicki Haley, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Robert W. McMahon

July 25, 2011

Judy, Bruce, the children, the entire Ellis and extended family. I just fell upon this tragic loss for your family when I was doing some family research thru Ancestry.com & checking his name thru Google.com, my thoughts & prayers are with you. I am indirectly related via the "Cox & Dent" family ancestry. From all I have read, he sounds like a father, brother or friend you could only dream of having, you will have him in your dreams, speak to him often, he will guide you with his spirit by your side. Sincerely & with best wishes----"McMahon's from Washington,DC",

July 25, 2011

Judy, Bruce and the entire Ellis family. Jeff brought joy laughter and happiness to everyone and everything he touched. The weekends at Piney Narrows, Va. Beach visits and fishing trips, vacations,Christmas parties, and many regular phone conversations made Jeff a huge part of my life. I think of him every day. Society has lost a larger than life gentleman. Jeff, I love you Rest in peace. Bill Clark Annapolis, Maryland

July 24, 2011

Remembering Jeff in thanksgiving for taking a chance on a young college grad and giving her a beginning to her career at Ridgewells. I was blessed to learn from the best. May the Lord bring his blanket of peace to the entire Ellis family. With deep sympathy and in love, Lori Brubaker

July 4, 2010

Ginny and Barry Cross

July 24, 2011

To My Dearest Friend Judy and the entire Ellis family...Barry and I were lucky enough to meet Judy and Jeff years ago through mutual friends, the Sawyers. We automatically connected and could quickly tell both Judy and my "Jeffrey" would be friends for life. We have created many great memories together and enjoyed HUGE laughs when travelling, dining, boating, and simply hanging out together. One of our fondest memories includes going up the Bay on the Double Down, following the Vitory Lap. Jeff stayed right by Captain Barry's side the entire trip and pointed out some of the beautiful placess he used to enjoy. We have lost not only a dear friend but a GREAT man. When you look up 'gentleman' in the dictionary, you will find his picture. I have never known a more caring man. Anyone who has been graced with Jeff's presence, at the first introduction, knows there is none like him. We will cherish the memories and the photo's...wow, his photo's. What a gift. We will continue to pray for Judy and the entire family for peace in your hearts. In Deepest Sympathy and Love, Ginny and Barry

Angelo Bonita

July 23, 2011

My thoughts of Jeff Ellis. I can honestly say there are few people who have walked in my life and changed it forever. He was my friend and taught me that life is short and the most important part of life is the people in it. He was the ambassador "extraordinaire of friendlimess to strangers. He extended his greeting hand, Hi my name is Jeff Ellis. Hence everyone was comfortable around him. His personality was magnetic! Jeff was not a self-centered guy, he believed life on earth was not about aquiring fame or wealth, when you realize, to him, life was an exercise in character building for eternity. He was a very generous and loyal man.
To Judy, Bruce, and extended Ellis clan, I share your pain in my heart. I want you to know I will be there in Blessed Sacrament at this difficult time.on Tuesday.
Jeff, hear my prayers: I love you. I admire you and I will miss you. You have graced my life more than you will ever know.

Wayne & Theresa Sawyer

July 23, 2011

Jeff Ellis had a thoughtful way of living,which each of us could only hope to achieve. Jeff always had a caring word from the heart,and a beautiful smile to share.There are ao many sweet treasured memories Wayne and I share with Jeff and Judy, that will live on in our hearts forever. From day one in 2000, when Jeff knocked on our door,with a beautiful lab puppy in tow by the name of summer,sporting a purple leash and collar,welcoming us to the neighborhood---There was an instant friendship,which grew into a very deep love for our Brother and Sister. When we lose someone so close , it is hard to bear the sorrow in our hearts.But we truly believe Jeff is in a beautiful place with no more pain to bear.Our deepest sympathy to Judy and all of Jeff's family. God rest your soul,Jeffery.Love Forever and Always, Wayne and Theresa

July 23, 2011

There are no words that can adequately express our sorrow for Judy, Donna, Bruce and the entire Ellis family at his very sad time in our lives. Jeff had an amazing impact on the lives of those fortunate enough to know and love him. The many memories we shared with Jeff and Judy as part of the “Piney Family� will live on forever. Among the more memorable were the offshore fishing trips on the “Reel Mistress�, Jeff yelling at five year old Michael to get down from the thirty foot tuna tower. The Ridgewell's catered “cook out� at the marina, racing at 70+ mph on Jeff's new Sonic fast boat, and the many more too numerous to mention. Hopefully Jeff, Bobby and DeWitt are together again and will occasionally recall the many good times we had together.
Jeff was a special person and we will miss him dearly.
Bob & Karen Thomas

bob thomas

July 23, 2011

There are no words that can adequately express our sorrow for Judy, Donna, Bruce and the entire Ellis family at his very sad time in our lives. Jeff had an amazing impact on the lives of those fortunate enough to know and love him. The many memories we shared with Jeff and Judy as part of the “Piney Family” will live on forever. Among the more memorable were the offshore fishing trips on the “Reel Mistress”, Jeff yelling at five year old Michael to get down from the thirty foot tuna tower. The Ridgewell’s catered “cook out” at the marina, racing at 70+ mph on Jeff’s new Sonic fast boat, and the many more too numerous to mention. Hopefully Jeff, Bobby and DeWitt are together again and will occasionally recall the many good times we had together.
Jeff was a special person and we will miss him dearly.
Bob & Karen Thomas

July 23, 2011

Jeff was a wonderful, bigger-than-life individual. He always greeted you with a big grin and a joke, and left you in the same way.

He was full of life, passion, joy, kindness and compassion. He will be missed by many, many people.

My favorite memory of Jeff includes his brother, Bruce, and their Father.

It was shortly after we graduated from college and I happened to be at the Ellis home. Jeff, Bruce and I were in the living room when suddenly Jeff and Bruce started to wrestle with one another while "talking the talk" to each other. Without any warning, their Dad jumped in and started wrestling with both of them. It was hysterical. They looked like 3 little boys, only they were 6'5", 200 plus lbs each and took up the whole living room. It lasted only for a few minutes before Mrs. Ellis came in to put a stop to it. It was so funny and yet so sweet because it showed how close they were and how much they loved each other.

I'll never forget those moments in time.

Peggyann Coleman Talbott

Patt Hooper

July 22, 2011

Christine, Lisa, Matthew, Katie and Michael: My heart goes out to each of you as you experience the tragic, senseless death of your Father. I didn't know him well but from what I did know, he deeply loved and was so proud of his five children and his precious grandchildren. I can only imagine the grief that each of you suffers at this time. Not long after Ray died, I came across a quote by an anonymous writer: "you never say goodbye for the last time to the one that you love". So believe dear ones that your Dad smiles down on you from heaven and will watch each of your children grow into adulthood. Remember all the fun times that you had with him and cherish those memories in your heart. Continue to love him and talk to him. I happen to believe that he will hear you and sometimes answer.
I love you all and keep you in my thoughts and prayers,
Patt Hooper

Patt Hooper

July 22, 2011

Christine, Lisa, Matt, Katie and Michael: My heart goes out to each of you as you exprience the tragic, senseless deah of your Father.I didn't know him well but I do know that he deeply loved and was so proud of his five children and his precious grandchildren. I can only imagine the grief that each of you suffers at this time. Not long after Ray died, I came across a quote from an anonymous writer: "you never say goodbye for the last time to the one that you love". I still ponder that message in my heart. So believe that your Dad smiles down on you from heaven and will lovingly watch each of your children grow into adulthood. Remember all the fun times that you had with him and cherish those memories in your heart. Continue to love him and talk to him. I happen to believe that he will hear you and sometimes answer. You are in my thoughts and prayers each day.
I love you all,
Patt Hooper

Dick Deerin

July 22, 2011

To All the Ellis Family - We were so sad to hear of Jeff's death. We hadn't seen him in years, but remember him as a great and fun friend "back in the day."
Susie and Dick Deerin

Bob and Karen Wray

July 21, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ellis families.

Rick Robillard

July 21, 2011

Dear Judy: I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Jeff. In the hours we spent together learning the finer points of photography I came to know how much he loved his family. It is hard to imagine how difficult this time must be for all of you. Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Norrie

July 21, 2011

Loving and kind in all his ways,
Upright and just to the end of his days,
Sincere and true in his heart and mind,
Beautiful memories he leaves behind.

Flo Womacks (photo club)

July 20, 2011

Please accept my sincere sympathy for your unexpected loss. My prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Dinner with Jeff & Judy - 2/16/11

Rich & Kris Weiner

July 19, 2011

Rich & Kris Weiner

July 19, 2011

Jeff's passing has left a deep hole in our hearts. I always felt that Jeff was like the brother I never had. I always looked forward to our long telephone talks. He was always so easy to talk to and we enjoyed many laughs together. We have so many wonderful memories of the years we spent boating together at Piney Narrows, and the many cruises that we made to Jeff's place in Virgina Beach. I have told the story many times of a guy's fishing expedition off Virginia Beach when we caugh a bunch of fish. When we returned to Jeff's house, he prepared all of that fish in many different ways. It was like a feeding frenzy for all of us. Recently, I was so happy for Jeff that he was able to play golf again using a back friendly golf swing. We played with he and Judy a few months ago and we were looking forward to playing more next fall after his knees were all better. Jeff, we miss you terribly. I can't tell you how many times Kris and I have thought about you and cried in the past week. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Judy, Bruce, Donna and the whole Ellis family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

July 19, 2011

Our Deepest Sympathy to Judy & the Ellis family, Regards,
Kym & Jack Stephens

Jennifer Creech

July 19, 2011

Judy and the Ellis family,
We were so sorry to hear. Jeff was a wonderful human being. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Leslie & Jennifer Creech

Susie Clark

July 19, 2011

Dearest Judy and the Ellis family- Jeff was truly one of the finest men I have ever known. I will treasure the wonderful memories and many laughs we had at Piney Narrows together. I will never forget my son, Tim, telling me at 9 years old that he wanted to grow up and be just like Jeff. That's how he affected everyone who knew him. My heart is heavy with saddness for our loss. Love, Susie Clark

July 19, 2011

I'm was shocked to hear of Jeffrey's sudden passing. My husband, Andy, and I were close friends of the family in the early years of Fifi and Slim's marriage. Andy and I had twins (Paul and Wayne)in 1941, and later a daughter, Marjorie. Many years passed as we raised our families and Ridgwells grew. I had a final visit with Fifi at Maplewood a few years ago. Paul and Wayne are now retired and live in N.C. Your family is in our hearts and prayers. The Ellis family will always be in our fond memories.
Fay Morrison (Vienna, VA)

I'm sure that Jeff, Dewitt and Bobby are all deep sea fishing the canyons of Heaven right now. RIP Jeff

Kevin Thomas

July 19, 2011

DeeDee Hargrove

July 19, 2011

Dear Judy: He adored you, loved his family and took care of all of us in a wonderful, extraordinary way. His knack for making whatever you told him was going on in your life at the moment seem like the best news he had ever heard was priceless. I will always honor his friendship and be thankful I had the good luck to know him. My thoughts are so with you, the kids, and Bruce and Donna.

Love, DeeDee

Keri-Ann Thomas Southworth

July 19, 2011

Knight in Shining Armor - was how I always looked at Mr. Ellis (Jeff) as he strode down Gas Dock to greet everyone at the start of each Piney weekend. I remember looking up to Judy and wanting to be just like her - such happy beautiful people. My fondest memory is that of Jeff at our wedding - encouraging me, in my boofy wedding gown and Jon in his tux to climb the tuna tower on the Reel
Mistress - while keeping my nervous mother at bay. Miss you forever Jeff... I know you are shining down upon us all. Love, Keri-Ann (Thomas) Southworth

Joan LaRock

July 19, 2011

Dear Judy and the Ellis Family - Deepest condolences for your unexpected loss. Jeff leaves a legacy of his beautiful children, loving wife and brother. My prayers are with you; be strong. Love, Joan LaRock

Dana & Pete Laake, Sr.

July 18, 2011

Jeff was exceptional in so many ways and in so many endeavors and through it all - so humble. From Piney Narrows to Florida and wherever they traveled, Jeff and Judy nurtured friendships. Jeff's stories about Ridgewell's were as entertaining as Jeff himself. There was the story of a banquet, where Jeff was retrieving an exquisite ring of a famous star - by crawling under the table. The star was Elizabeth Taylor. We always looked forward to the annual Christmas picture and narrative, written with such loving detail about every family member - pets included of course! We felt connected to all in the wonderful Ellis family.

To the entire Ellis family and all whose lives Jeff touched, may your good and joyful memories sustain you.

Michele Weiner Sternberg

July 18, 2011

When I think of Jeff, I think of the incredible happiness and energy that he exuded no matter where he was. He always made us smile and was a wonderful friend to my parents. We will never forget you, Jeff. My most sincere condolences go out to Judy and the entire family. We loved him so much and will miss him.

Wally Zoppa

July 18, 2011

When I left Ridgewells, after nearly 20years of work and dedication,a co-worker said "Remember the good times."I've learned to cherish the little things that life has given me. I started Ridgewells in June of 1973 and Jeff greeted me me when I first came there to interview for my job. The little thing that I remember was Jeff letting me store my car at his home in Chevy Chase. Jeff treated me with respect and valued me as a person and not just an employee. My heart goes out to Bruce, and the entire Ellis family, I am so very sorry for your great loss. Wally Zoppa, San Diego, Cal.

Dee Le Master

July 18, 2011

I had the honor of knowing jeff and will always be I my heart. Thoughts and love to u Judy at this time

Laurie Rapp

July 18, 2011

It was the magic of Mr. Ellis that orchestrated his teenage children and their friends to bellow in unison, "HELLO YOU BIG BAD BEAUTIFUL BAY" as we crossed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. I don't know many dads who could get this age group to share their vocal ability with one another, let alone make an attempt. Yet he succeeded each time - with a car full of bored, tired teenage angst yelling this salutation in a sing song manner at the top of our lungs, windows open, hair flying, and the scent of the bay engulfing the car....My heart goes out to his entire family, but especially to each of his children, who whether they know it or not, carry a little of that same magic.

Elam Morales

July 18, 2011

Jeff was an amazing man who I admired. I worked for him for many years. He always challenged us to do our best and gave encouragement along the way. I will always be thankful to be part of the Ridgewells family. May God comfort the Ellis family at this very sad time.

Dick& Jeanie Ridgway

July 18, 2011

Bruce, Donna, Judy and the entire Ellis family: we are so saddened by loss of our wonderful friend. Jeff was a great guy, always ready to help someone in need, and could make you laugh at any time....our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Rest in peace, dear friend.....Dick and Jeanie

Robin Stamper (VB Photo Club)

July 18, 2011

My heart breaks for the Ellis family. What a huge loss for all who had the good fortune to know such a fine gentleman as Jeff. I will keep Jeff's wife Judy, and all his family in my thoughts and prayers.

July 18, 2011

My memory takes me back to the 1960 when I first met members of the Ellis &
Ridgewell family near 18th St & Fla Ave NW and later in Bethesda, as rep of ITT Terryphone Co. As a recent immigrant from Germany I was in awe of the business (unknown to me in Germany) but I felt welcomed by their warmth and friendliness, which continued for
many years. I am now the more saddened
by the great loss to the family and hope
that God will be with you and comfort you.
With deepest sympathy,
Klaus Zurheide, Potomac MD

Tom McElvy

July 18, 2011

Please accept my condolences for the loss of Jeff. While I only knew him through the Photography Club, he was a wonderful, warm, and gentle man, who obviously had a very kind soul.

Rest in Peace, Jeff.

Mark Huber

July 18, 2011

Farewell to an awesome person. God bless you. You will be missed very much. 66 years is way too short for a great person like you to be on this Earth, you spread so much joy and generosity. Thank you so much for you friendship. Love you, Buddy!

July 18, 2011

Dear Donna and Bruce,
Please accept our sincere sympathy. Our prayers are with you.
Peggy and Frank Weis

Tim Strachan

July 18, 2011

The whole Strachan family offers our deepest sympathies to the Ellis family during this difficult time. We are sorry we will be unable to attend the service, as we will be out of town, but we will continue to keep you all in our thoughts & prayers. May Jeff rest in peace and may all of his wonderful characteristics and memories live on through his family & friends. God bless you all!

Mary, Rich, Beau, Bret, Pooh, Tim and the entire Strachan Family

Kathie Gerber

July 18, 2011

May you finally be at Peace Jeff. We will miss you. RIP.

July 18, 2011

Jeff Ellis was my Guardian Angel and my heart goes out to his family. As a young Lieutenant, recently arrived in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, I found myself tasked with running social events at what was then Admiral's House(now the Vice President's residence). Dinners for 36, lawn concerts for HUNDREDS were enough to paralyze the bravest of naval officers -- and then I was introduced to Jeff Ellis. What a jewel of a man! Took me under his wing. Had my back. He was my "Go To" guy for all functions, and he NEVER let me down. And when I met a very special young man, I went to Jeff -- "He's taking me to the Aerodrome in Warrenton; I need a picnic that will knock his socks off", and Jeff created the magic. 35 years later, I am still using your recipes to dazzle guests, and missing an amazing man.
FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS, dear Jeff.
CDR Carolina Clair Wylie, USN(RET)
Alexandria, VA

Susan Urgo

July 18, 2011

Collin and I are are so sorry for your loss. Your dad lit up the room when he walked in. We're hoping that the happy memories you have of your dad will help comfort you during this very tearful time. May your dad rest in peace.

Darren Everett

July 17, 2011

Jeff was an inspirational person in my life. Among the many values he instilled in me, hard work, a love of life and family, and a positive attitude will be the ones that will never be forgotten.

Jeff touched the lives of many people with his amazing generosity, kindness and, above all, his humor. His jokes and one-liners kept a smile on the face of anyone around him. While it is hard to imagine life without Jeff during this tragic time, we can all be comforted by the fact that he is now in heaven - sharing his same jokes and perhaps a few magic tricks with those who have also left us.

Peace be with you Jeff, your love and spirit lives on in all of us.

Christiane Crowder

July 17, 2011

Uncle Jeff,
You will be forever missed! I love you! Christiane

Martine Bernard Amirkhalili

July 17, 2011

Christine and family, I am thinking of you all and know that the love within your family and the memories you have of your father will help to temper the overwhelming pain. I remember your dad as a larger than life, energetic, happy, happy man. All my love and deepest sympathies to you and yours, Christine.

July 17, 2011

In memory of all his many contributions to our community, rest in peace. The Cumberlands

If I could only hear your laughter and feel your arms around me . . .

Judy Ellis

July 17, 2011

My Dear Jeff,
Your pain is finally gone, may you rest in peace.

My love forever, Ad Infinitum, always, Judy

Joanie Cassidy Friel

July 17, 2011

Words can't express my sorrow, and also the love that I feel for the Ellis family. I will pray for your peace. Rest in peace Jeff.

Our beloved Jeff at Washington Harbor

peter & trish scelfo

July 17, 2011

Jeff was a remarkable man who instantly touched the lives of everyone he met. His sense of humor, fullness of grace and dignity, ability to know exactly what to say at any given moment, consummate host ability, contagious love of travel and the outdoors, especially the love of boating and fishing and photography, love for fine dining, and love of cars were only surpassed by the love he gave to his family and friends. He had dashing good looks every day of his life and his memory will forever last in the hearts and minds of those of us who loved him and who will forever miss him. Our deepest sympathy to all of our mutual friends and especially Jeff's wonderful family. His passion for life, people, his beloved canine companions and most of all, his wife and our dear friend Judy, were an inspiration and beacon for emulation not only for us but countless others. Our consuming sadness upon his loss reflects our love for him beginning the day his friendship was gained. We are, Peter and Trish.

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Ways to honor Jeffrey Ellis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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