James Eugene Ellis

James Eugene Ellis, 95, previously of Abilene and recently of Dallas, passed away on July 26, 2021. A man of many names, he was known lovingly as James E, Jim, Ellis, Gene, Short, Shortie, Dad and Grandaddy.

James E. was born in Gilmer, TX to Oglesby and Lorene (Thomas) Ellis on February 2, 1926. He served in the United States Army from 1943 to 1945. On June 7, 1947, he was wed to the love of his life, Dolores Allison in Kilgore, Tx. They moved to Abilene in 1948 where he graduated from Hardin Simmons University, was a dedicated employee of Sears Roebuck for 43 years, and where he and Dolores were faithful members of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church. In 1961, one day before his own birthday, they welcomed their baby girl, Linda Marie.

He is survived by his best friend and only child, Linda Halbert, who cared dearly for him every day since the passing of his wife. She and her husband, Jon, as well as their three children Lindsey, Alex and Heather will cherish all the years they had together, but they celebrate his reunion with his beloved bride of 65 years. He was a man of few words but never failed to show his love through quiet acts of service and an unfailing smile.

A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, July 31 at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.