Kenneth "Papa" Darnell Ellis

Kenneth Darnell Ellis, 92, of Rustburg passed away Monday, January 4, 2021 at his residence. He was the husband of the late Mary Ellis. Born in Franklin County, Virginia on July 24, 1928 he was a son of the late John Ellis and Annie Belle Ellis He retired from Lynchburg Foundry, was a member of New Chapel Baptist Church and loved gardening. Kenneth was a strong Christian man who helped many people to Christ. He is preceded in death by a daughter, Shelia; two sons, Harvey and Ray. Kenneth is survived by his children, Paula Bagby of Lynchburg, Rocky Allen and his wife Beverly of Rustburg, and Roy Ellis and his wife Aletha of Lynchburg; two sisters, Mae Martin of Moneta and Marie Blackwelder of Bedford; 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, seven great great-grandchildren; and his cat Tom who he loved dearly. A funeral service will be conducted 11:00 am Monday, January 11, 2021 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with Pastor Tim Dooley officiating. Burial will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery. Family will receive friends one hour before the service starting at 10:00 am at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. The service will be livestreamed via Facebook through Whitten's Facebook page. www.facebook.com/WhittenFuneralHome. To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.whittentimberlake.com. Whitten Timberlake Chapel is serving the family, (434) 239-0331.