Fred Ellis of Hampton, passed away on Jan 15, 2021 after a battle with mesothelioma. He was a strong, spirited, and loyal man that thoroughly enjoyed life and highly prioritized family.
Fred was born April 24, 1936 in Hampton, Virginia, the only child of the late Fred and Nora Ellis. He graduated from Hampton High School and was a proud Crabber his entire life; having held the chains for the football team for over 20 years. Fred started his career in the United States Army, launched a dump-truck company upon his return from service and worked over 33 years at the Newport News shipyard. Fred also served his famous BBQ at pig pickins all across Eastern Virginia and warmed the hearts of many while feeding them full. He enjoyed traveling across the United States with his wife Anne, visits to the horse/dog races, vacations to Perry's in Daytona Beach, cheering for the Washington Redskins and watching NASCAR whenever possible.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne Ellis of Hampton and his son Jimmy Farmer of Lakeland, FL. He is survived by his daughters, Jana Flores of Hampton, and Celeta Totten of New Kent, VA; sons, Kenneth Farmer of Moyock, NC and Phillip Farmer of GA; grandchildren, Angela Pierce, Mike Runion, Nicolaos Totten, Lisa Farmer, Ray Farmer, Amanda Karlinsky, Hillary Forrest and Jennie Forrest; and many great-grandchildren.
A gathering of friends will be held from 6 - 7 PM, Wednesday, Jan 20, 2021, at R Hayden Smith Funeral Home at 245 S. Armistead Ave. in Hampton. A graveside funeral will be conducted at 2PM Saturday, Jan 23, 2021 at Parklawn Memorial Park, 2551 N. Armistead Ave, Hampton.
In memory of Fred, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.
Arrangements by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home. www.rhaydensmith.com.