Ellison Lee Clinton

Ellison Lee Clinton, born March 21, 1955, in Lancaster, South Carolina, passed away on October 3, 2026. The oldest of six children born to the late Leroy and Juanita Clinton, Ellison embraced responsibility early, beginning work at just nine years old and carrying that same determination throughout his life.

An intellectually gifted young man, Ellison graduated from Lancaster High School at the age of 16. During those years, he met the love of his life, Angeline Massey, and the two married in June 1971. Their family grew quickly with the births of their children, Lee and Monique— the heart of a life built on devotion, perseverance, and deep love.

Driven by a fierce desire to rise above his circumstances, Ellison enlisted in the U.S. Army, using his service education benefits to later fund his education. Launching a career rooted in service and care, he worked with the Lancaster Police Department, where he received an award for Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer from the Lancaster Jaycees in 1978. Later, he briefly worked at Springs Industries while completing an Associate Degree in Science at University of South Carolina at Lancaster followed by a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy Degree at the University of South Carolina in Columbia in 1980. He retired from a decades long career as a pharmacist with Carolina Medical Center, where he became known for his professionalism, compassion, and steady presence.

Ellison found joy not only in his work, but in the world beyond it. He traveled extensively throughout his life, exploring countries and cultures with curiosity, gratitude, and a sense of adventure that broadened his perspective and enriched his spirit.

His greatest joy, however, came from watching his family grow. He delighted in welcoming his daughter in law Michelle and son in law Brad into the family, embracing them with the same warmth and loyalty he gave to all he loved. His grandchildren — Layah, Elijah, and Angelena — were the lights of his life, bringing him immeasurable pride, laughter, and happiness.

Ellison’s life was also shaped by deep and lasting friendships, especially through his membership in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and Mizzenmast, the beloved travel and investment group that became a second family to him. He was a dedicated husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend — someone who showed up, worked hard, and loved fiercely.

He is survived by his loving wife, Angeline Massey Clinton, the love of his life and his best friend; his son, Lee Clinton (Michelle) of Waxhaw, NC; his daughter, Monique Clinton Sherrod (Bradley) of Fort Worth, TX/Atlanta, GA; two granddaughters, Layah Clinton and Angelena Sherrod; and one grandson, Elijah Sherrod. He is also survived by his siblings Joseph Clinton, Delores Clinton, Warren Clinton, Chris Clinton, and John Clinton; his brothers in law Mitch Massey, Lawrence Massey, and Chris Massey; beloved elders, Uncle Freddie Sinclair Clinton, Uncle William Louis (Bunchie) Massey, and Aunt Rose Funderburk; and a host of loving cousins, relatives, and friends.

Ellison leaves behind a legacy of intellect, determination, loyalty, and love. His family and friends will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

A celebration of Ellison's life will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 1:30 pm in the chapel of McEwen Funerals & Cremations at Forest Lawn West, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC. Visitation 12:30 pm in the funeral home chapel. Entombment in Forest Lawn West Cemetery. Condolences may be submitted at www.forestlawnwest.com.