James Everett Elllis Jr.

James Everett Ellis Jr., lovingly known to family and friends as Jimmy or Big E, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on April 17th, 2026, in Narrows, VA at the age of 70. Born on July 26, 1955 in Virginia, he lived a full and genuine life.

Big E was the beloved husband and best friend of Beth Davis Ellis of almost 20 years. Together, they shared a marriage of love, sacrifice, and an incredible devotion to one another as they enjoyed their years traveling, most especially on cruises and to the cabins of Tennessee. They also enjoyed quality time spent with friends and family, evening rides with their favorite pup in tow, and lots of front porch sittin’. Together, they formed a beautifully blended family of 6 children and 25 grandchildren.

Big E was a devoted father to David Ellis, Garrison Ellis (Danielle), Emily Jennings (Josh), Meaghan Tate (Logan), Nathan Frazier (Kayla), and Kelly Price. He was also a proud and loving grandfather to Shelby, Jamie, Patrick, Jaelyn, Jolten, Jaycee, Jaxton, Grayson, Hadley, Holden, Maddox, Pierce, Laighton, Tucker, Parker, Nixon, Gannon, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Soldier, Samuel, Lewie, and Heath. His family was the center of his world and he found great joy in every gathering, milestone, and memory shared with them.

Big E graduated from the Giles High School Class of 1973 and later earned an associates degree. He retired from Volvo after 34 years of employment. He took pride in his work and the friendships he built along the way. Big E’s strong foundation of faith was a guiding light for him and those around him. He humbly served as a deacon at the First Baptist Church in Narrows where he and Beth faithfully attended. He lived his faith through his actions, offering encouragement, support, and kind words to those in need. His Christian witness was evident in the way he treated others. He left a lasting impression on his church community.

Big E also loved the Town of Narrows deeply and was honored to serve on the Town Council. He cared about his community and cared about giving back to the place he called home. Whether through public service, church involvement, or simple acts of neighborly kindness, he made Narrows a better place.

Of all the things Big E loved, a few of these were his favorites: walking his adored dog, Benji, rocking on his front porch, proudly attending and supporting any and all extra curriculars and celebrations of his grandkids no matter the distance (which really began during the days he would coach Garrison and Emily through their sports growing up). He was known for his legendary pancakes that were most often customized into initials of those eating. He was a collector of ball caps which will proudly be on display by some of his kids/grandchildren at his services. Big E found joy in the simple and meaningful things, which made loving him and being loved by him so easy.

Big E is survived by his brothers-in-law, Steve Davis and John Davis; his sister-in-law, Becky Barna Smith (Gary), and brother Jerry Ellis (Mary); and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who were blessed by his steady friendship and genuine spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Everett Ellis and Nadean Carol Morse Ellis, as well as his father-in-law Clayton Davis and brother-in-law Roger Davis. The love of his family shaped his life, and he carried their influence with him always.

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation on Sunday, April 19th, 2026 from

2:00 PM until 4:00 PM with a funeral service to follow at 4:00 PM at Narrows First Baptist Church with Pastor Jerry Sawyers officiating. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Ellis family.In lieu of flowers, you may send memorial contributions to First Baptist Church of Narrows.