After a lengthy illness, Joseph Leroy Ellis, Jr., 63, passed away pain-free and peacefully in the comfort of his own home and set off to meet his Maker on Wednesday, November 4, 2015.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph L. Ellis, Sr. and Bertha Mae Ellis, of NC. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Suzanne; his children: David, of the home; Daniel (Moira), of NY; and his daughter, Elizabeth (Eric), of Hampton; and his two wonderful grandchildren: Maxwell and Helena, of NY. Joe is also survived by his siblings: Sheila (Rick), of NC; Melissa (Walter), of NC, and Alan, of NC.
Joe lived a very fulfilling life. He was a Boy Scout and played Little League. At age 18 he joined the Marine Corp and was proud to serve his country. OORAH! Upon his honorable discharge he became a firefighter for the Department of Defense. After retiring from the Fire Department, he went on to work for the City of Newport News Codes Compliance Department from which he retired in 2013. His family would like to extend many thanks to his N.N. Codes Compliance coworkers for honoring Joe by catering his daughter’s at-home wedding so that he could be in attendance. Also, to our Special Angels at Hospice Community Center, thank you so very much for helping with Joe’s journey home.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at 1:00 pm. The family welcomes you to join them for a reception following Mass. Should friends desire, contributions may be sent to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church Backdoor Ministry or to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.
Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave., Hampton, VA 23666.
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