Rudolph Ellis was the son of the late Robert and Pearl Pickett Ellis. Born and raised in Columbus County, he took great pride in being an "old country boy". He gave his life to Christ at an early age and joined Springhill Baptist Church. He later relocated to Durham, NC and joined North East Baptist Church where he served as a Sunday School teacher, faithful usher, and loyal member until his death.

After graduating from West Columbus High School in 1954, he married Ella Mae Williams, who preceded him in death. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he faithfully served for more than three years and attained the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4). During his military service, he was assigned to the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and later served in Augsburg, Germany. He was honorably discharged after completing his distinguished service to his country.

In 1958, he joined Home Security Life Insurance Company in Durham, North Carolina, as a mail clerk. While working full-time, he attended night classes at Durham Business College, where he earned an associate degree. In 1962, he was promoted to become the company's first African American insurance agent. Through hard work, dedication, and leadership, he later became the first African American Assistant Vice President of Sales Promotion and Advertising. He enjoyed a successful career with Home Security Life Insurance Company that spanned more than 35 years. After taking early retirement in 1993, he continued his commitment to serving others by working as a special needs school bus monitor for 11 years.

Rudolph was a gifted storyteller who was known for his warm sense of humor, generous spirit, and kind heart. A skilled carpenter and certified mason, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by building the family home where he resided for more than 65 years until his passing. He took great pride in creating a lasting legacy for his family through his craftsmanship and dedication. Among the many lessons he shared, he encouraged his family to be avid readers, lifelong learners, and faithful believers in God.

He is survived by his devoted wife Edna T. Ellis; three children: Michael Ellis, Sonya Ellis Watson (Orlando), and Sherrie Ellis Mahan (Russell). He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Beverly Ellis Morgan (Howard) and his granddaughter, Alana Watson. He is also survived by six cherished grandchildren: Farrah T. Morgan, Jocelyn Ellis, Marshall Ellis, Lauryn Mahan, Russell Mahan III, and Harrison Ellis Mahan; three great-grandchildren, Madysen Clarke, Max Guerrero, and Chloe Guerrero; two brothers, Seymour Ellis and Larry Ellis (Kim); his brother-in-law and best friend Elton Tabon (Shirley) and his brother-in-law Elvis Tabon (Eugenia); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Funeral Service:

Friday, June 12, 2026
Visitation: 12:00 PM
Funeral: 1:00 PM

Location: North East Baptist Church | 3204 NC-55, | Durham, NC 27713

Interment: Ellis Memorial Garden 4832 Chadburn Hwy Whiteville NC 27713

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