Mr. James Samuel Ellis, 74, was born on September 1, 1945 and departed this earthly life on Friday; July 3, 2020. He was the son of late Robert F. and Adline Ellis.

He was member of the United House of Prayer for all People. James worked as a bailer for Pinkey Card Room for many years. He loved to cook, sing, beat the pots and playing cards.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Robert and Adline Ellis; brothers: Napoleon Ellis, Nathaniel Ellis; Jacob Ellis and Arnold Ellis; sisters: Ruthie Craig, Carrie Ellis, Lizzie Ellis, and Juanita Barnes.

Those left to cherish memories are his wife: Ernestine Little Ellis of Raleigh, NC; son: Frederick Ellis, step-son: Jeffery Little of Gastonia, NC; sister: Lizzie McCullen of Raleigh, NC; Marilyn Byers of Charlotte, NC, Barbara (Joseph) Wilson and Frances (Robert) Funderburke of Gastonia, NC; brothers: Randy Patton and Esau (Jannie) Ellis, and a host of nieces, nephews whom he loved dearly and helped to rear and other relatives and friends.

He will lie in state at the funeral home from 4-6 on Friday; July 10, 2020

Graveside service: Saturday; July 11, 2020; 12 noon at Rose Hill Cemetery, Gastonia

Update: Services rescheduled to Monday, July 13, 2020 at 12 noon at Rose Hill Cemetery