William (Bill) E. Ellis Sr.

Lt. Col. (Ret, USARNG) William (Bill) Earl Ellis, Sr. passed away Sunday afternoon, December 24th. His long and fruitful life touched so many through his caring and compassionate nature, and he will be dearly missed by all those who came into contact with him during his years here on earth. From his early accomplishments - getting his pilot's license at 17 as a member of the Civil Air Patrol right after World War II, to his work as an architect, to his twenty years of service to the City of Jacksonville, and his 31 years with the Army National Guard, he was an amazing provider, husband and father to his family.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 69 years, Eloise Sterling Ellis; his children Alice Jane Herbert and William (Bill) Earl Ellis, Jr.; his daughter-in-law, Denise, and son-in-law, Scott; his four grandchildren, Brian, Timothy, Jennifer, and Jonathan; his sisters-in-law Betty, Peggy and Carol; and his nephew and loving caretaker for the past two years, Anthony.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2017 in Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin. The Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 29, 2017 in Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, followed by interment at 1:00 p.m. in Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.