Obituary of Tom Ellis

Harold Thomas Ellis, Jr., age 74, of Mt. Pleasant, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2016 in Mt. Pleasant. Tom was born March 10, 1941 in Belton, South Carolina, the eldest of 5 children of Harold Thomas Ellis, Sr. and Helen Deanhardt Ellis. Tom was always a caring individual, even from a very young age he tended his younger siblings and provided an excellent role model for them. Tom established a relationship with the Lord at an early age, and throughout his life sought to guide others in that path. During his highschool years he volunteered as a camp counselor at Camp Greenville in South Carolina. Later he lead a Youth Group and Sunday School classes. Recently was a member of First United Methodist Church in Pittsburg. Tom was a natural born leader, a quality which helped him excell in life and guide and inspire those around him. A noted athlete in his younger days, Tom was awarded a full scholarship to Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina where he played quarterback. After receiving his Bachelors degree he enjoyed a lengthy career in the pharmaceutical industry. On July 15, 1961, Tom wed Ellen Douglas Winstead; during the next 54 years they would live, laugh, love and raise three children: Ellen, Hal and Ashley. Tom was always a devoted husband and father. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Douglas Ellis; daughter: Ellen Hammett and husband Matt, of Midlothian; son: Hal Ellis and wife Priscilla, of Mt. Pleasant; and daughter Ashley Ellis Lankford and husband Keith, of Mansfield. Also left to cherish his memory are 9 grandchildren: Jordan Hammett, Austin Hammett, Kevin Hammett, Kolton Hammett, Sarah Perry and husband Graham, Garrett Fairbanks, Emily Ellis, Anna Ellis, and Lilly Ellis; one great-grandson: Easton Hammett; three brothers: Lee Ellis, Joe Ellis, and Donnie Ellis; a sister: Susan Ripley; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Harold Thomas Ellis, Sr. and Helen Deanhardt Ellis. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to: Alzheimers Association North Central Texas Chapter 2630 W. Freeway, Suite 100 Ft. Worth, Texas 76102 Heart to Heart Hospice 201 W. 20th Mt. Pleasant, Texas 75455