James Ellers

James Ellers, Sr, age 80, died September 10, 2018, at a Tappahannock nursing home, where he briefly resided after suffering a stroke in August 2018. James was a long-time Essex County resident. James was born on July 2, 1938 in Rocky Mt. NC to Henry and Eunice Ellers. After graduating from high school, James moved to Norfolk, where he worked as a bank teller. There, he met the love of his life, Jacqueline (Jackie) Rose. James and Jackie were married in Oct. 1958, and were married for 54 years, until her death in 2013. They had 2 children, daughter Debra, and son Jae.

James and his family moved to Tappahannock in 1961. He initially worked as a teller for the Bank of Essex, and moonlighted as a construction worker on the Downing Bridge. James later became a farmer for several decades. After leaving farming, his other work included auctioneer and heavy equipment operator. James was active in the community, as a member of Jaycees and the Essex County School Board for several terms. A fitness buff, James participated in many local fun runs. He was known for his generosity, friendliness and varied interests, including beekeeping and Civil War history. After his kids moved West to pursue their careers, James and Jackie vacationed with them frequently, enjoying places such as Yellowstone, Mt. Hood, and the Canadian Gulf Islands.

James was preceded in death by his parents and wife. He is survived by his daughter, Debra Ellers, and son-in-law, Dale Grooms, of Port Townsend, WA, son, Jae Ellers of Portland OR, and granddaughters, Grace Ellers and Isabella Ellers of Portland, OR.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 3, 2018, 11 am at Ephesus Baptist Church in Dunnsville. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Indian Rivers Humane Society, P.O. Box 264, Aylett, VA 23009.