Obituary of James C. Ellis

Loving husband, father, artist, and innovator James C. “Jim” Ellis of Roanoke passed away at the age of 85, on May 11, 2016. Jim grew up “Over Home” in Franklin County, Va. and finished high school in Fincastle. He went to Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, and then launched an illustrious and prolific career. In 1952, he married Rebecca Rush, and, together with Becky, his right hand and soul mate, created art, restaurants, restored homes, a loving family, and a life unsurpassed. As well as splendid memories, he leaves behind his devoted wife Becky, son Caleb, daughters Elizabeth Ellis and Laura Miller, as well as Laura's husband Kenny Miller, and his beautiful granddaughters Kerry Miller and Haley Ring, as well as her husband Tyler. Days before he passed, Jim was covered in sloppy kisses from his great granddaughter Pippa Ring. In death, he is reunited with his dear mother Mary Virginia Lovelace and his loving brother Thomas Ellis as well as extended family and friends. In life, his compassion, storytelling and love of life and family will be sorely missed. In his words, “it’s been a wonderful life”. Living on in countless hearts, Jim is not gone, but gone before us. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at the Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center in his memory. A memorial service celebrating Jim’s life will be held 10:00am Saturday June 18, 2016 in St Marks United Methodist Church, 19 Cedar Ridge Drive, Daleville, Virginia 24083