Velma Frankie Ellis, 85, of Largo, Florida and formerly of Holmes Beach, Florida, passed away under the care of Hospice on Feburary 14th after a brave battle with Alzheimers. She was lovingly cared for by the staff at Arden Courts of Largo during her last years and they became her extended family. Their love and support provided comfort and reassurance as she struggled with a relentless disease. We are forever indebted to them for their kindness and compassion.
Velma was born in Clinton, Tennessee and was fiercely proud of her Tennessee roots. She loved the beauty of the Great Smokey Mountains and visited whenever she could. Even though she moved all over the South, she always considered East Tennessee to be her true home.
Although she was born during the depression and times were tough, her life took a turn for the better when she married the love of her life, JC Ellis, on November 23, 1950. They had 60 wonderful years together and raised two daughters. Velma was a devoted wife and loving mother. She was old school through and through. She took great pride in being a loving helpmate to her husband and was happiest when she was caring for him, her daughters, her home, and her dogs. She was a treasure and a blessing to those who knew her. Always a hard worker, in her later years, she enjoyed managing the Norfolk Southern’s Resort for employees on Anna Maria Island, The Lay-By. Velma and JC worked as a team to ensure the comfort and safety of their railroad guests. They delighted in spending time with the guests and sharing the wonderful beauty of Anna Maria Island.
Velma had a tender heart and a particular soft spot for animals. She enjoyed spoiling her two beloved poodles, Max and Tiger. Sometimes they were treated to a ride in the basket of her bike as she rode around Anna Maria Island with JC. Nothing could light up her face like warm kisses from a squiggling puppy.
Velma was predeceased by her husband and leaves two daughters, Dr. Sandra Ellis of Clearwater, Forida and Linda Jaye Ellis, ARNP of Largo, Florida to cherish her memory.
A celebration of life will be held at Gulf Coast Church, 13301 Walsingham Road, Largo on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 11:00am. Burial will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery Thursday, February 21, 2019 at 10:30am. To honor Velma’s memory, donations may be made to the charity of your choice or to the local humane society.
On trips to Florida, I always enjoyed visiting Mrs. Ellis. Her sense of humor was fully intact as well as the twinkle in her eye. Her intelligence and wit were second to none as I would watch her “give it” to her daughter Sandra. On many occasions Mrs. Ellis would answer questions poised to her in a spontaneous, articulate but humorous manner. Shared stories of Mrs. Ellis presented the same sense of humor and wit throughout her life. May you rest in peace Mrs. Ellis knowing you were loved by your daughters and all who have had the pleasure of getting to know you.
Big brother introduced Velma to our family of 4 brothers and 2 sisters when I was 5 years young. It was love on first sight for me, since she displayed an immediate affection. She was so kind and attentive. I begged to go on their honeymoon, and I swear I think she would have agreed, but big brother wisely wouldn’t allow same. She was such a considerate sister-in-law who provided the kind of emotional glue which keeps families focused on love and caring. Velma’s passing leaves a huge void in our hearts, but she was instrumental in making our heart and soul capable of such feelings. God rest her soul. Roy Frazier Ellis
Sandra and Linda: Sorry for the loss of your mother(Velma). She will be truly missed, However she is reunited with JC in Heaven. We have been Family friends for 52 Years. JC and Velma were good people and true fiends forever. Will never forget all the good times the great Memories. Rest in Peace Love, John Hicks – Retired Norfolk Southern. Love the photo in Louisiana
Dear girls,so sorry about my special sister in law.She and I had loved each other for over seventy years, so a deep loss to me.She was a very close sister and I will always remember all the good times we had together. Please stay in touch.Much love from Virginia