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Willie Edward Ellis

November 7, 1932 ~ October 16, 2012

Willie Edward Ellis, age 79, passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2012. He was born in Wilson County on November 7, 1932 to Luther Edward Ellis and Minnie Mae Barnes Ellis. He was also preceded in death by three siblings, Louise Ellis Baker, Jeanette Ellis Grimsley, and Charles Eric Ellis, Sr. Willie is survived by his wife, Joyce Rose Ellis; three sons, Edward Lee Ellis (Ritchie), David Rose Ellis (Pam), and Bruce Leonard Ellis (Arlene); grandchildren, Jennifer Ellis, Jessica Ellis Boyd (Larry II), Justin David Ellis (Laura), and Jade Marie Ellis Garris (Cody); and great-grandchildren, Larry Ray Boyd III, Caleb Blaine Boyd, Carson Reid Boyd, Austin David Garris, and soon to arrive, baby girl Laura and baby boy Jade. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Syrl Harris and many cousins. Upon completing 4 years in the United States Navy in December 1956, he entered Barber College in Durham in March 1957. Willie graduated November 1957. His first employment was at Sunset Barber Shop with John Batts and “Catfish” Jim Taylor for 3 years. From there he went to Lancaster Barber Shop at Tarrytown. Willie then became co-owner of Moderne Hairstyle and Admiral Hairstyling. His retirement shop was Headmaster Hair Style with Roy Tyson, his faithful friend and barber partner. Willie gave 43 years of barber service to Rocky Mount from November 1957 to December 21, 2000. Through those years, Willie enjoyed sharing his faith of Jesus Christ with his customers. Willie was president of his Sunday School class at Calvary Baptist Church and was faithful for many years until his brain bleed stroke December 25, 2010. He was an usher for many years and served on several committees for the church. Willie also enjoyed taking time to play sports with his children and Tim Willis. His wifes family was very supportive. Willie enjoyed their reunions and looked forward to them. He will be remembered by her sisters, Christine Pierce, Aileen Davis, Doris Griffin, Helen Jones (Elbert Ray), and Ann Varnell (W.C.); and her brothers, Clifton (Anise), A.J. (Frances), Eugene (Seleta), and Ronald (Verona). Willie was also predeceased by his wifes siblings, Junior, Alma Clarida, and Alvin. The family will receive friends and relatives 7:00pm to 8:30pm Thursday, October 18, 2012 at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home. A Going Home service will be held at 2:00pm Friday afternoon in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Brandon Dees and Rev. Gary Wood officiating. Burial will follow at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund, 505 S. Englewood Drive, Rocky Mount NC 27804. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com. Visitation Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1130 N. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 ID ) ); ?>"> --> 252-451-8800 --> | Thursday 10/18, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Service Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1130 N. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 ID ) ); ?>"> --> 252-451-8800 --> | Friday 10/19, 2:00 pm Cemetery Rocky Mount Memorial Park 4454 Dortches Blvd., Hwy 43 Rocky Mount, NC 27804

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  1. To Joyce and Family, Cheryl and I convey our most sincere Condolences. Cheryl and I will never forget the time of my fathers passing and both you and Willie opened your home to us….sat…chatted and enjoyed your famous spaghetti, and most of all your TRUE SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. Not only did we get to see my best friend Ed, but your whole family, who jammed packed an entire weekend of activities, food and down to earth love. The Ellis Family took my mind completely away from the difficult time I was experiencing with the loss of my Father and showed both Cheryl and I, true love and care. Please, I only hope that the Ellis family can recognize that although this is a difficult time, you all have touched so many hearts in your life and that this small note can only help. The McCarthy’s here in the Philippines Love You very much. Very Respectfully, Mike, Cheryl, Rachel & Billy

  2. To Joyce and Family, I will sure miss Willie. He was such a nice man and an outstanding barber. I remember him giving me my very first haircut downtown back in the early 1960’s, and, he continued to cut my hair for over 30 years until his retirement. I guess you could say that Willie saw me grow up in his barber chair. During my early years with the fire dept, Willie always keep me in-line with the strict hair regulations of the RMFD. I’ll never forget him and the fellowship we enjoyed in his establishment. Sincerely, J. Keith Harris RMFD Chief (retired)

  3. Truly sorry about the death of Willie,I knew so many men and young boys who went to him for all their hair cuts. We send our deepest sympathy to all of the family. Cherish the good times and his love. Pray GOD will give you the peace you need during the coming days,week and months ahead. In Christian Sympathy, Tom and Martha Lancaster Barnes


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