Nina B. Ellis

Nina Ballard Ellis was born in 1924 to the late Willis H. and Evie Lou Ballard in Thomaston, Georgia. Nina was a woman of faith and was baptized at a very young age in a creek. She was clear in her faith and stated, “I’m saved and I know where I’m going."

Nina worked for a short time as a secretary at Frank Leathers. However, she spent most of her years as a cook. In 1964, she became a well-known cook at Franks Corner. She went on to open up Nina’s Diner in 1965. Nina was famous for the Rustic Diner, which was later established in 1970. For over 27 years, she served truckers from far and near some of the best southern comfort food in town. Truckers would come from all over to enjoy “Big Red’s” cooking.

Nina also served in the United States Marine Corps for several years as a Postal Clerk. She was honorably discharged in 1945 from medical injury while on duty.

In addition to her parents, Evie Lou and Willis Ballard, Nina was also preceded in death by her former husband Mack Leverne Cline, latter husband Leslie Arden Ellis, one son Leslie Arden (Skip) Ellis, Jr., five brothers, and two sisters. She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Judith Minnix (Harold) and Nancy Black (Dale); one son, Kenneth Cline (Barbra); her grandson and caretaker, Mr. Charles Minnix (41 DS); other grandchildren, Judith’s children - Eddie, Bart, Bret, Julie, and Charles, Nancy’s children - Tiffany and Scott, and Kenneth’s daughter - Cher; several great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a host of other nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A memorial service for Mrs. Nina B. Ellis will be held in her honor on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 11:00AM in the chapel at Horis A. Ward Funeral Home – Fairview Chapel, 376 Fairview Road Stockbridge, GA 30281. Due to COVID-19 regulations, socially distanced seating will be implemented and masks are required. Additionally, services will be streamed LIVE for family and friends at 2:00PM on Saturday, September 5, 2020 via www.facebook.com/hawFairview/. A private inurnment will take place at Georgia National Cemetery at a later date.