James Calvin Ellington

James Calvin (Jim) Ellington made his transition from this life on December 1, 2024. A loving and caring businessman and public servant with a big personality and humble heart lives on in the presence of his Savior. Jimmy, as he was best known to his friends, waged a remarkable battle against Alzheimer’s disease and ultimately, adenocarcinoma. Throughout his illness with these two devastating diseases his wife, Leslie, and their daughters, Deborah and Angie, were at his side.

Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many during his life. He was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on December 5, 1943 to Walter Murray Ellington, Sr. and Lucy Faye Till Ellington. He grew up in the greater Jackson area and was a member of Morrison Heights Baptist Church. Following graduation from Central High School in Jackson, he attended Mississippi State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1966.

Jim and Leslie met in junior high school and began dating in 1960. They were married on July 18, 1963. Throughout 61 years of marriage they shared the joys of their daughters’ births, a successful business career, and Jim’s 24 years of service as a member of the Mississippi State Legislature.

Jim began his career with the Chrysler Corporation in New Orleans where he worked on the Saturn I-Booster. He continued his path with Mississippi Power and Light Company (Entergy) where he managed the Environmental Impact Statement for the Grand Gulf Nuclear Project. He spent eleven years gaining valuable experience that would later benefit all of Mississippi. Upon leaving Mississippi Power and Light, Jim set out on his own as an entrepreneur. His knowledge, desire to learn, and dedication to his goals (along with a charming smile and personality) guaranteed the success that he and his family enjoyed.

Jim began his political service as a Hinds County Election Commissioner. In 1988 he was elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives where he served as Chairman of the Conservation and Water Resources Committee. He also served on the committees of Apportionment and Elections, Public Health and Welfare, Public Utilities, and Ways and Means. As a legislator, Representative Ellington was awarded numerous titles of accomplishment from organizations including NFIB, BIPEC, ALEC. He was also recognized by his peers in the House. He was rated a “Champion of business and industry” by BIPEC, and a “Guardian” of small business by NFIB throughout his entire membership in the House. He was the brainchild and co-founder of the Mississippi Legislative Conservative Coalition; an organization that helped lead the way to tax and education reform. Jim served on the board of the Coalition until his retirement and assisted in the major overhaul of the tort system. Jim served on a number of legislative boards and was appointed by Governor Haley Barbour to the Southern State Energy Board. Post-retirement he continued to serve on several boards. In addition to working at the Capitol, Jim and Leslie made their home open to numerous out of town legislators.

Jim was an avid sportsman and particularly enjoyed fishing and playing golf. Some said that he was a better golfer in his deck shoes than most golfers were in their cleats. Jim and Leslie enjoyed spending time at their “place” in Pass Christian where they enjoyed coastal living and Jim spent hours fishing with friends. Much of the couple’s time was spent attending ballgames and school functions with the “grand loves of their lives,” Jay and Tate.

Jim has departed this life but has left a legacy both in reputation and family. Left to mourn his passing and to celebrate a life well lived are his wife, Leslie Horne Ellington; his daughters Deborah Thrasher (Tim) and Angie Regan (Jason); grandsons that he cherished and loved so dearly, Jay Regan and Tate Regan; and Mattie Thrasher and Jake Thrasher. He is also survived by his brother, Walter Murray (Ouida) Ellington, Jr. Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Jim’s family would like to thank all their friends and family for the love and prayers they have offered during Jim’s illness.

A visitation for James will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM at Parkway Funeral Home & Parkway Memorial Cemetery, 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157, followed by a celebration of life service at 2:00 PM.