Lloyd “Woody” Woodrow Ellis

May 16, 1933 - October 31, 2011
Lloyd “Woody” Woodrow Ellis

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Lloyd Woodrow “Woody” Ellis passed from this life into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, October 31, 2011. His passing was peaceful and sweet, surrounded by his family. As his beloved wife Sally showered his face with kisses and words of love, he drew his last breath on this earth, and took his first one in his Heavenly home. Psalm 116:15 “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Precious indeed.

Known as “Woody” by his friends, “Daddy” and “Papa” by his children and grandchildren, he was a man among men in every sense of the word. He possessed and demonstrated a genuine love for people of all walks of life. When you spoke to him he truly listened, when he said that he would pray for you you knew that he would, and when he spoke to you, he spoke truthfully and from his heart. He possessed a rare gift for making those around him feel loved and cared for. While he had a smile that could light up any room, and striking blue eyes that were a gift from his dear mother…his most memorable qualities were his sparkling wit and his keen mind. Those were the things he was born with, but his Heavenly Father bestowed upon him the gift of wisdom which he possessed with great humility and love. His greatest passion in this life was sharing the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ to all who would listen. He consistently declared, even in the most trying of times, that he had been abundantly blessed by his Lord in all things. He longed to share this abundant life with everyone, and his compassion drove him to seek out any who needed encouragement or uplifting. In his quiet and faithful way, he spread the love that Christ placed within him to a hurting world….one soul at a time.

Born during the Great Depression and raised on a farm in Columbus County, North Carolina, he always spoke with great yearning and love for his childhood days. Although of humble means, he always declared that they were so happy and fulfilled with each other and the glorious earth beneath their feet in which they toiled every day, they never realized that they may be considered poor by some standards. Their lives were rich in every way that mattered. He was raised to love and honor his Lord, care for, nurture, and protect his family, and treat his fellow man with respect, dignity, and compassion. This is the legacy he has left his children and his grandchildren.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Walter Selma and Carrie Ellis, a brother J.D. Ellis, and beloved granddaughter Amber Miller Conatser. Remaining to mourn his absence and honor his memory are his beloved wife, Sally…a true and faithful wife, partner, and friend, his daughter Jenese Ellis Miller and husband Dale, daughter Jessica Ellis Lobbestael and husband Keith, and grandchildren Dawn Miller, Kellie Miller McDonald and husband Kevin, McKenna Skye Lobbestael, and Dylan Zane Lobbestael. Also, his beloved Amber’s husband Jason Conatser, whom he truly loved as his own grandson. Two great grandsons Brady Ellis McDonald and Gavin Robert McDonald will miss their “Great Papa”. Also surviving are his brothers Wilton Ellis and wife Elwee, Graham Ellis and wife Ada, and Walter James Ellis and wife Wanda. Surviving and beloved sisters are Marie Merritt and husband Erman, and Diane Smith. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws complete the family he leaves behind.

It is fitting to honor a special few among the many whose lives blessed Woody’s life. First of all, the physician who’s tender, skilled, and compassionate care stood out as a shining and beautiful example of excellence…Dr. James McCabe. His diligence and tenacity brought healing and tremendous joy. To the family who made the most difficult decision to donate their loved ones’ heart back in 1991, bless you and thank you for your gift of life. To the hundreds of nursing professionals whose care and skill made the days of sickness brighter and less painful, our humble and profound gratitude. Finally to the prayer warriors who filled the Heavens with prayers and petitions that brought miracle after miracle, may God bless you abundantly.

A service to Celebrate his life will be held at the Pine Valley Church of God at 3810 Shipyard Boulevard on Friday, November 4, 2011 at one o’clock in the afternoon. Visitation with the family will begin one hour before the service at noon. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

While we rejoice that our loved one has reached his Heavenly home where there is no pain, no sickness, no goodbyes, and no death…we find that a tremendous light has gone from our lives, which will never be the same. We strive to follow in his footsteps with the lessons he taught us by example, and look for the day when we will be reunited, never again to be parted. Precious husband, Father, Papa, friend, loved one…we cannot say goodbye. We can only say, “we will see you one day soon”.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington,NC 28403. 910.791.9099


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  • November 02, 2011
    mike sawyer says:
    woodrow was a great man of god. he would always find to talk or just to say hey to anyone. he will truly be missed by family and friends.

  • November 02, 2011
    Vickey Ridgeway says:
    I have many pleasant memories of Woodrow through the years. For me, they go all the way back to 4th & Marstellar. During his difficult journey of sickness, everytime I saw him I was always amazed and reminded of what a miracle he was! Our loss, heaven's gain! We will meet again on that glad reunion day.

  • November 02, 2011
    Don & Jan Morgan says:
    Dear Family, We mourn with you on the loss of your wonderful husband, father, grandfather. May the Lord be close, may you feel His sweet peace during this very sad time of loss. We love each of you more than words can appropriately speak. Our love now & always, Don & Jan

  • November 04, 2011
    Regina Faulk says:
    So sorry to hear of Woodrow's passing. He was a strong man that will always be remembered as someone who beat the odds over and over again. I will always remember his kind and loving ways. Praying for all of you at this time. I know God will continue to give you the strength that you need. I Love You all so very much! Regina

  • November 02, 2011
    Rachel Eissens Hayes says:
    Dear family, Thinking of each of you during this time. I hold fond memories of the times we shared together. I too, will always remember Mr. Woodrow for his smile and kind ways that he always had. My love and prayers for each of you, Love, Rachel