Martin "Tom" Ellis

Martin Thomas “Tom” Ellis, age 71, died on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, surrounded by his family. Tom was born in Annapolis, Maryland on May 8, 1954, to the late Martin Anderson Ellis and Betty Jane Temple. Tom graduated high school in 1972 while living in Bahrain as a Navy Brat.

He went on to study Business Administration at Old Dominion University graduating in 1977.Tom lived a full life defined by his love for his family and friends. He spent 31 years successfully growing Palm Express Trucking into what it is today. Throughout those 31 years and the almost 20 years prior in the trucking industry he formed great relationships with so many around him who all have become like family.

An adventurous spirit, he enjoyed fast-paced activities like motocross, and flying as an instrument rated pilot. Tom was also an avid outdoorsmen that loved hunting in southwest Texas, and his true passion, fishing on his beloved Merritt “Necee J”.

As an adult, he dominated the SCCA Racing American Sedan Class winning multiple titles. On any sunny day he was ready to hit the sky to have lunch in a new place or head offshore for a day of tight lines.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Martin and Jane and his wife Denise Jarrett Ellis (September 22, 2017). Tom is survived by his wife, Katy Ellis, his children, Thea Ramsey (Steve), Taylor Blackburn (Harrison), and Thomas Ellis, and his brother, Phil Ellis (Annette). Tom was also a proud grandfather to Sawyer, Owen, and Asher, and stepfather to TJ, Jack, and Callie.

A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale with Pastor Ken Kerrigan officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to The Sheridan House.