James Ronnie Ellis, 79, of Crooked Creek, WV, departed this life on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Logan Regional Medical Center at Logan, WV.

He was born December 6, 1945, at Asheboro, NC, a son of the late Connie Ellis.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Rhonda Creakman; one brother, Thomas Scott Ellis, and one sister, Tashia Ellis.

Ronnie carried forward a legacy of hard work and dedication as a retired coal miner and member of the U.M.W.A. Local 781. Throughout his life, he held a passionate dedication to the brotherhood of Freemasonry. He ascended to the distinguished rank of a KCCH Scottish Rite Mason. His membership with the Aracoma Lodge #99 A.F. & A.M. in Logan, WV, was not merely a title, but a reflection of his devotion to the values of fraternity, charity, and truth. Ronnie was also a proud member of the Logan Chapter #41 of Royal Arch Masons, as well as the Logan Commandery #26, where he served with honor and distinction. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard.

Ronnie’s interests were as rich and diverse as the life he led. His heart found joy in the simple pleasure of riding motorcycles, feeling the freedom of the open road. His love for his farm on North Fork was evident to all who knew him, a sanctuary where he found peace and contentment in the rolling hills and the quietude of nature. Above all, Ronnie cherished his role as a grandfather. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, each moment spent with them a treasure he held close to his heart. Ronnie will long be remembered as a man of honor, a pillar in his community, and a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 52 years, Sherlie Ellis; his son, James Brian Ellis of Chapmanville, WV; a nephew whom he thought of as a son, Thomas Scott Ellis, of Chapmanville, WV; his son, Rodney Ellis of Cleveland, OH; his grandchildren, Brent Ellis, Gavin Creakman, and Aidan Ellis; one great-granddaughter, Natalia Ellis; two sisters, Kimberly Ellis of Lake Wateree, SC, and Deb Webster of Columbus, OH. Additionally, Ronnie leaves behind many nieces and nephews along with his Masonic brothers and a host of extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV, with Pastor Jimmy Carter and Pastor Ralph Perry officiating.

Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens at Godby, WV, where Masonic Graveside Rites will be observed.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.