Dorothy Jean Mathews Ellis, 88, passed away on Saturday, January 26, 2019 surrounded by her loving family and friends. Jean was born on February 9, 1930, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and was the youngest of five siblings. She married James Hugh (Jim) Ellis in 1949 and they began their life together while he was in the military. Following the Korean War, they moved to Memphis, TN to begin careers and start a family. Jean began a business career in Memphis working at Buhler Mills, Inc. and later Hyman Builders Supply. In 1974, they moved to Jackson, MS where Jim owned a home concept decorating business. While in Jackson, Jean worked as Vice President of Student Loans for Bancorp South where she retired. She was named Professional of the Year by the Financial Aid Administrators, was appointed by the Mississippi Governor to the Financial Aid Board of Higher Learning and served 12 years. She was a charter member of the first ladies Civitan Club of Mississippi. After retirement in 1995, they moved to Collierville, TN where they became active members of Collierville First Baptist Church. Jean served on multiple church committees including Prime Timers and Chairman of the church finance committee. Jean was an active member in Beta Sigma Phi for over 30 years and served in all positions including Tennessee State Convention Chair. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, James Hugh (Jim) Ellis. Jean is survived by her daughter, Jan Carlson (John) of Germantown ,TN, and her son, Randy Ellis (Kim) of Clarksville, TN. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Steven Carlson, Todd Carlson, and Dawn Barnes. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 31, 2019 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm with the service to follow at 2:00 pm at Collierville Funeral Home, 534 W. Poplar Ave Collierville, TN 38017. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials can be sent to Collierville First Baptist Church, 830 New Byhalia Rd. Collierville, TN 38017.
