John "Johnny" Ellis Warren

ROCKY MOUNT – John "Johnny" Ellis Warren, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 Born in Northampton County, NC on March 22, 1935, he was the son of the late Christopher Ellis Warren and Mabel Parker Benthall Warren. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Nancy Warren Gregory; granddaughter, Sarah Ellis Gregory; his two brothers, Wilson "Henry" Warren and Charles Patrick "Pat" Warren; and his sister, Jane Newby Busby. A graduate of Rocky Mount High School, Chowan University, and East Carolina University, Johnny was an All-American football player throughout his high school and college career. Following graduation, he joined the United States Army and served overseas where he played service football for the Yokoto Raiders at the Yokoto Air Base in Japan. Following his honorable discharge, Johnny began a long and successful career in banking before his retirement in 1998 as the Vice President of Centura Bank. He contributed greatly to the civic and religious life of his community throughout the years. Johnny served as treasurer for 12 years for the Nash-Edgecombe Chapter of the East Carolina Pirate Club, 5 years for the Civic Club of Rocky Mount, and was also a longtime member of the Rocky Mount Optimist Club. Johnny was a lifetime member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church where he was a Senior Warden and Lay Eucharistic minister. A dedicated husband, brother, and dear friend to many, Johnny will be forever missed and never forgotten. Johnny is survived by his wife of 62 years, Vivian Nadine Williams Warren; his sister, Florence "Anne" Richards and husband, Rich; and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate Johnny’s life will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 301 S Circle Dr, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, with Rev. George Greer officiating. Visitation with the family will follow the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Johnny’s memory to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 301 S. Circle Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.