James Edward Ellis, 88, of Batesville, Arkansas, passed away January 14, 2020. He was born on December 14, 1931 in Beebe, AR to Charlie and Bertha Ellis.

James was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, friend and grandfather. He was retired from Orbit Valve manufacturing in Little Rock, AR. James was an ordained minister and long-time member of the Arkansas Bluegrass Association, as well as a member of Weaver's Chapel Baptist Church. He loved growing beautiful plants and singing blue grass music with Erlene, the love of his life. He enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his favorite television shows.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Erlene Ellis; brothers, William Ellis and Charles Ellis; Sisters, Juanita Fuller and Le na Logue; daughters, Sue Hayslip, Jimmie Carol Hix and Paula Jackson; great granddaughter, Ashley Stovall. He is survived by brother, Lee Roy Ellis of Holland, Michigan; sons, Malcom Hix Jr. (Jane), Denny Ellis and Vance Ellis; as well as many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.

Services will be held on Friday January 17, 2020 at Willis Funeral Home with visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., with the funeral, officiated by David Insell, starting at 2:00 p.m.  Pallbearers include: Malcom Hix III, Joshua Gates, Malcom Hix IV, Donald Thorne Jr., Jason Cooper and Donnie Thorne III. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Gainesboro, Arkansas.