Howard Ellis

Howard was born on October 8, 1932, in Tams, WV, to Albert Ellis and Margaret Conley Ellis. After the early loss of their mother, Howard and his brothers, Charles and James, were lovingly raised in Beckley by his aunt Hannie (Ben) Rutherford. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Patricia Rispress, and Marsha Ford. He is survived by Sherdena Crowder, Cheryl (Tony) King, Natiya Kincannon, Shanae Kincannon, Annette (Jonathan) White, Felicia Rispress, Charles (Jamie) Rispress, Lamont (Lisa) Rispress, Jonathan Crowder, and Thomasina Crowder, along with many other family members and friends who will cherish him always.

A man of deep faith, Howard was a longtime member of St. Matthew AME Church, where he served as Sunday School Superintendent, President of the Trustee Board, Chairperson of the Kitchen Committee, and member of both the Finance Committee and the choirs. He especially loved singing his favorite worship song, “I Am Redeemed.”

Howard proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force and retired with honors after achieving the rank of Technical Sergeant. His military recognitions include the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award. His devotion to service continued long after his retirement, as he faithfully raised and lowered the American flag each day — a quiet reflection of his respect for country and duty.

Howard enjoyed gardening, preparing hearty meals for his family and church, and listening to his extensive record collection. He lived as he so often sang, “I am redeemed, bought with a price… Jesus has changed my whole life.”

Home-Going Services will be held Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. Matthew AME Church, 103 Mills Ave, Beckley, WV 25801. Viewing will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, WV 25801, at 1:30 p.m.

Howard’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Raleigh Center Skilled Nursing Facility, where Howard lived the past 18 months, and to Raleigh General Hospital, who provided him with comfort and care during his final days. The family also wishes to thank St. Matthew AME Church for the love, support, and fellowship shown to Howard throughout his long and blessed life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Matthew AME Church in Howard’s memory.