Mr. James Ellis Covington, beloved son of the late George and Mittie Chambers Covington, was born on March 30, 1941, in Union County, North Carolina. Affectionately known as “Ellis” by family and friends, he peacefully answered God's call and entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, North Carolina.

Ellis attended the public schools of Union County, North Carolina. He was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years as a truck driver with Pilgrim's Pride in Wingate, North Carolina, until his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margie Covington; his loving daughter, Lisa Ann Covington; his parents, George and Mittie Chambers Covington; five sisters, Parthaina White, Berniece Staton, Louvenia Gillespie, Mary Ruth Sturdivant, and Queenester Thomas; and three brothers, Kenneth Covington, Columbus Covington, and George Covington, Sr.

Left to cherish his precious memories are his devoted daughter, Loria Ann Watkins (Nathaniel) of the home; one brother, Wilson Covington of Marshville, North Carolina; and one sister, Sarah Maske of Atlanta, Georgia.

Ellis was a proud and loving grandfather to three grandchildren: Jeremy Covington (Cesslie) of Pageland, South Carolina; Jesica Furtick (Kinnard) of Columbia, South Carolina; and Justin Covington (Antoinette) of Columbia, South Carolina. He also leaves behind twelve cherished great-grandchildren: Jacoven, Jerod, Jaylen, Justin Jr., Kayla, Jacari, Jada, Janay, Jeremy Jr., Jala, Justyce, and Jordyn.

In addition to his immediate family, he leaves a host of special nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Though he has departed from this earthly life, the love, wisdom, and kindness Ellis shared with those around him will remain in their hearts forever.

The Homegoing Services will be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 1:00pm, Greater Grace Community Baptist Church, Marshville, North Carolina. Interment will be in the family plot of the Church Cemetery.

The Covington Family will greet family and friends on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 from 12:00-1:00pm at Greater Grace Community Baptist Church.

The public viewing will be on Monday, June 15, 2026 from 12:00-4:00pm at Smith's Funeral Home.