Dora Jane Ledgerwood Ellis, 99, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, August 9, 2020.
Dora Jane was born December 24, 1920 in Hot Springs to the late Cecil & Theresa (Lark) Ledgerwood.
Dora Jane was a proud graduate of Hot Springs High School. She attended Tulane University of New Orleans, earning a Bachelor of Music Degree. Later she attended Columbia University of New York City where she earned a Master of Arts Degree doctorate with Honors, majoring in voice and conducting. During her studies she had the pleasure of studying with Marjorie Lawrence and they became lifelong friends.
Dora Jane had extensive concert experience throughout the U.S. which brought the brilliant lyric soprano to artistic maturity. In 1945, she was asked to return to her high school alma mater, and start a music program. She was so excited to work with young people that she stayed with the Trojans from 1945 to 1975. She presented countless concerts, touring nationwide all the while conducting the Trojan Music Department and special choirs. In 1975 she began teaching at Garland County Community College and retired in 1978. Dora Jane was twice honored as “Young Arkansas Artist of the Year” and performed three times as guest soloist with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Trice Ellis Jr. and her beloved uncle, Vern Ledgerwood.
Survivors include her children, Trice Ellis, III (Judy), Niles Ellis (Rita Jo); grandchildren Christy Tyler (Matthew), Stephen Ellis (Brandi) and Jamie Ledbetter (Clint); numerous great and great-great grandchildren; and great niece Story Fowler. Also cherished by Dora Jane and her family are her wonderful caregivers, Raye Duckett, Mattie Matlock, Sarah Springer, Mary Bolher, Renea Newborn and Rita Bolden.
Pallbearers are Trice Ellis, Niles Ellis, Matthew Tyler, Jeremy Tyler, Jacob Tyler and David Parker.
Honorary pallbearers include Jacob Ledbetter, Dr. Martin Koehn, the staff of Arkansas Hospice, her countless students whom she touched with her love of music, and especially her caregivers.
Due to the difficulties and uncertainty associated with the pandemic, services will be private. In the soon post pandemic future there will be a memorial service for all her friends and former students to attend.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 1100 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901; Hot Springs High School Music Department, 701 Emory St, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913; or to the charity of your choice.
Guests may register at www.grossfuneralhome.com
