James "Jimmy" Howard Ellis 66 ,cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend was called to his heavenly home to be with the Lord on August 22, 2009.

Jimmy was born in Suffolk on October 28, 1942. He was predeceased by his parents Clarence and Rebecca Ellis and sister, Carolyn E. Taylor. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 45 years, Betty D. Ellis, three children and their spouses; Jo Lynn E. and Todd Butler, Jeanie E. and Jason Pippin, and James Christopher "Chris" and Angela Ellis all of Suffolk; grandchildren, Ashlyn Pippin, Katelynn Butler, James T. Pippin and Aaron James Ellis; his brothers and sister-in-law, Ernest and Vivian Ellis, Gary and Diane Ellis; aunt and uncle, Edna and Randolph Bailey; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was a deacon and lifetime member of Cypress Chapel Christian Church and member of The New Hope Bible Class. He also served in the church as an usher and on the finance committee. Jimmy retired from Vitex Packaging Company after 47 years as a press operator. He was a lifelong farmer and worked alongside his son at Superior Carpet.

His love for God, his family, and his farm were always steadfast in his life.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 3 p.m. at Cypress Chapel Christian Church by the Dr. Willis Dowling. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may join the family Wednesday evening from 7-9 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, 3515 Robs Dr., Suffolk, VA. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.

The family wishes to thank Nansemond Suffolk Rescue Squad, The Nightingale Team, and the Trauma Team at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for their care and concern for him; and to God for allowing us the joy of his wonderful life.