Overseer Joseph Ellis of 317 Wye Street, Waverly, Virginia made his triumphant transition to glory on Monday, June 8, 2020, at South Side Regional Medical Center.  He was born on August 10, 1931, to the late Rufus and Marie Ellis.

Overseer "Bro Joe" Ellis gave his life to Christ at the age of 22 and joined St. Mark Holiness Church, Dendron, Virginia.  Overseer Joseph Ellis served God and The Apostolic Faith Church of God faithfully in many capacities for 66 years until his death.  He was selfless, lived to please God and was a great example of a man that followed after God "Bro Joe" will be tremendously missed for his infectious smile, stern word of encouragement, quoting his favorite bible scriptures and the love he had for the "Saints" and Family.  There is no doubt his legacy has followed him to Heaven. Also, he retired in 1991 with 30 plus years of service from Smithfield Foods.

Joseph Ellis met and married the late Minister Herma Lee Bailey Ellis and from that union, 11 children were born.  He was preceded in death by one son, Joseph A. "Coach Ellis"(Doris).  To cherish his memories are, five sons, Larry(Debra), Charlie(Geneva), Herman, Craig(Karen), and John Paul; five daughters, Janet, Carolyn(Gerald), Brenda, Miriam and Aretha(Darryl).  In addition, he leaves 21 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren to cherish his memory.  He also leaves his sister-in-law, Elizabeth(Stanley) Jones to mourn his loss.

Joseph Ellis married Pastor Shirley Wilkins-Taylor on March 23, 1986. they had been married for 34 years at the time of his passing.  She is the mother of Sonya and Sheryl.  From this union, he gained 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren to cherish his legacy.  His in-laws were Wendy(Garland), Yvonne(Edward), and Gwenda(Robert) to mourn his loss.

Joseph Ellis is survived by one brother, Elder Percell Ellis; two sisters, Beatrice(Edward) Butler and Emily(Benny) Jones.  He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A Graveside Celebration of Life will be 12:00 Noon Saturday, June 13, 2020, at Waverly Cemetery, Waverly, VA.

Please adhere to the CDC guidelines.