Edward David Ellis, known affectionately as Ed, was called home to be with the Lord on June 14, 2023. Born on May 1, 1940, in Kaufmann, TX, Ed was a man of deep faith, unwavering love, and boundless passion. He passed away peacefully in Greenville, SC, surrounded by his loving family.
Ed was a devoted brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his children, David Ellis, Gina McCall, and Donna Ellis; his grandchildren, Kimberly Christine Debarr, Michael McCall, Mathew McCall, Kaitlynn McCall, Joni McDowell, and Jonathan Ellis; and his great-grandchildren, Aiden, Paxton, Khloe, Holly, Marerick, Savannah, AJ, Blakely, Kinsley, and Brynley. Ed's faithful canine companion, Dusty, will also miss him dearly.
Throughout his life, Ed was a dedicated servant of his country and community. He proudly served in the Coast Guard and later worked for NASA, where he contributed to the advancement of space exploration and technology. Ed's commitment to service was matched only by his love for learning and personal growth.
Ed was a man of many interests and talents. He was an avid reader and a dedicated student of the Bible, always eager to deepen his understanding of the Lord's Word. His love for history and electronics was evident in his vast knowledge of both subjects, which he enthusiastically shared with friends and family. Above all, Ed cherished spending time with his loved ones, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.
In his final years, Ed continued to demonstrate his faith-filled, passionate, and loving nature. He was a source of strength and inspiration for those around him, always offering a kind word or a helping hand. His unwavering faith in God and his love for his family were the cornerstones of his life, and his legacy will live on through the lives he touched.
As we gather to celebrate Ed's life, let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearance."
Edward David Ellis was a shining example of a life well-lived, a man who walked humbly with his God and loved deeply. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Let us take comfort in knowing that Ed is now in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father, reunited with those who have gone before him, and waiting to welcome us when our time comes. Until then, let us honor his memory by living our lives with the same faith, passion, and love that defined Ed's time on this earth.
In the words of the great hymn "Amazing Grace," "When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we first begun." May we all strive to live our lives in such a way that we, too, can join Ed in singing God's eternal praises. Amen.