Jimmy Ellis

On August 16, 2026, James “Jimmy” Warren Ellis passed away surrounded by the love of a family who has always known how fortunate they were to call him theirs.

Jimmy was born on October 1, 1947, to Robert Thomas Ellis and Clara Belle Pridgen Ellis. He was raised with strong values of family and kindness, which he carried throughout his life.

He was the beloved husband of Ginny Hayes Ellis, his partner and best friend for almost 56 years. Their love was a beautiful example of enduring compassion and commitment.

He is survived by his wife, along with his children, Tracey Dawn Ellis Wiggins (Greg), Jamie Nicole Ellis, and Karen Ellis Bass (Robbie); his grandchildren, Robert Earl Bass III, Katelyn James Bass, and Maribelle Virginia Alice Wiggins; his sisters,Roberta “Bobbie” Ellis Warenda (Ray), and Joy Belle Ellis Finch; his sister-in-law, Peggy Pappas Ellis; many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his much-loved grand-dog, Lola. The family would also like to recognize Jimmy and Ginny’s especially close and treasured relationship with his sister-and-brother-in-law, Marilyn (Ginny’s sister) and David O’Briant.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Warren Chadwick “Chad” Ellis; his brothers, Joseph “Joe” Robert Ellis, and John “Johnny” Harper Ellis (his twin); and his mother- and father-in-law, James Edward Hayes and Virginia Skinner Hayes.

Tracey, Jamie, and Karen had the extraordinary blessing of calling him Daddy. He was the kind of girl-dad every daughter deserved: completely devoted, endlessly supportive, and always available. He gave them the freedom to become entirely themselves, while making certain they always knew exactly where home was.

Jimmy delighted in becoming “Papa” to his grandchildren. He did more than watch Rob, Katelyn, and Maribelle grow up; he joined in the things that mattered to them.

Jimmy worked 33 years with Bridgestone/Firestone, beginning as a tire builder and working his way into supervision. He believed every job mattered and deserved your absolute best.

Jimmy’s family wishes to express their sincerest thanks to Duke’s 8W-MICU team and The Hock Family Pavilion for their extraordinary compassion, guidance, and support during such a challenging time. They were truly angels on earth, caring for Jimmy and surrounding the family with comfort and support at a time when great strength was needed. They will forever be grateful to them for the care given to Jimmy, and the love shown to them.

Jimmy has gone ahead but is not gone, and though we don’t know how to do life without him, because of him, we know how to joyfully do it together.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Wilson, NC, with visitation to follow. The family will also welcome friends and loved ones at the family home on the days surrounding the service.

Flowers or a memorial gift in Jimmy’s memory are beautiful ways to honor and celebrate a life so well lived. Memorial gifts may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box, 1467, Wilson, NC 27894 or The Hock Family Pavilion, 4023 N Roxboro Street, Durham, NC 27704.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr N, Wilson, (252) 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com