A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Lakeshore Mortuary, 1815 S. Dobson Road, Mesa, Arizona 85202. The Military Services and Interment will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85024.
Ray had a diverse and successful professional life. His military career included four years in the Air Force and nearly 20 years in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1984. His early work life began with a job as a bookkeeper at International Metals. It was there that he met his wife, Elgie. From 1963-1968 he served as a Phoenix Police Officer, a role that would influence his lengthy career in the banking industry. His 30 years in banking began with a position providing security as a cashier assistant at Arizona Bank. While advancing his career, he juggled family life while pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from St. Mary’s College. Throughout the years, he focused on fraud investigation and ATM security. He was instrumental in forging methods and systems to keep people safe at ATM’s. This work led to an appearance on “Good Morning America” in addition to being called on as an expert witness in many cases of fraud or robbery. He left his role of Vice President of Bank Security and Fraud Investigation at Bank of America when he and his wife moved to Virginia. There he spent 10 years at Dominion Bank and First Union in the same role. In 2001, he finally retired to move back to Arizona to focus on golf and grandchildren.
A difficult and courageous battle with cancer took a toll on his body. He fought multiple health issues resulting from cancer and treatments, a fight that gave him extra, precious years with his loved ones. His faith in God and determination to survive inspired many people.
Ray is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elgie; his sons Michael (Jennifer), David (Tiffaney), Devin (Merri Jo); his grandchildren Connor, Sarah, Ian, Aleaya, Briley, Antonietta, John (Rhiannon) and great-grandson, Jaden.
He will be remembered for his funny expressions, memorable stories, his love of golf, his strength and his devotion to his family.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/
For Paper
H. Ray Ellis of Chandler, AZ, passed away on August 29, 2017.
Services will be held on September 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Lakeshore Mortuary, 1815 S. Dobson Road, Mesa and at 2:00 p.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix.
He is survived by his wife Elgie; his sons Michael (Jennifer), David (Tiffaney), Devin (Merri Jo); his grandchildren Connor, Sarah, Ian, Aleaya, Briley, Antonietta, John (Rhiannon) and great-grandson, Jaden.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/
Arrangements under the direction of Lakeshore Mortuary, Mesa, AZ.
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