Adams announces the passing of Pastor Emeritus Edward Lamar Ellis, Jr, 87, who transitioned on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at Hospice Savannah.

Rev. Edward Lamar Ellis, Jr. was a native of Monroe, Georgia. He received his early education from the public school system of Monroe, Georgia.

Rev. Ellis served his country by joining the United States Army. He served from 1948 to 1952 during the Korean War.

He matriculated at Fort Valley State College (now University) where he received his B.S. degree and graduated with honors in 1956. In addition to being an honor graduate, Rev. Ellis was the first student to receive the highest awards given to a graduating senior, “The H. A. Hunt Award” in honor of the school’s founder and the “Best All Around Student Award.” Rev. Ellis also served as President of the student body. Before becoming ill with polio in 1954, he was a member of the football, basketball and track teams.

During his matriculation at Fort Valley State College (now University), Rev. Ellis was initiated into the Alpha Pi Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He also was affiliated with Tau Beta Sigma Chapter in Savannah, GA.

In 1967, Rev. Ellis received his Master’s of Education and in 1972, the Specialist in Education degree from University of Georgia. He has studied additionally at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta University and Virginia Union University School of Theology. Rev. Ellis has also received specialized training in Management, Conflict Resolution and Counseling.

Prior to moving to Savannah in 1985, Rev. Ellis had a very diverse career. He has worked as a teacher, school social worker, administrator, Diversion Center Superintendent, and as a Chief Probation Officer all in the State of Georgia. He has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career which included Probation-Parole Officer of the Year and Superintendent of the Year for the state of Georgia.

His Pastoral Ministry​ included First African Baptist Church-Monroe, GA;  Thankful Baptist Church-Athens, GA and Historic First Bryan Baptist Church.

Reverend Ellis was the longest serving Pastor in the history of First Bryan Baptist Church. He served for 27 years.

Rev. Ellis was predeceased by his parents, Dea. Edward L. Ellis, Sr. and Mrs. Phenolia R. Ellis. Siblings: Alvin Ellis, Sr., Robert Ellis, Sr. and Gloria Ellis: Brothers and Sisters in Law: Edward Williams, Isadore Williams, Issac Williams, Lauretta W. Jones and Lottie W. Brown. Nieces: Sonya DeBerry and Christa Stephens.

He leaves to mourn his passing: His Beloved and Devoted Wife of 57 years, Lillian Willams Ellis. Children: Sharon (Eddie) Bussey, Joia (Richard) Dinkins and Rev. Edward (Gena) Ellis III. His Grandchildren: Lillian Grace Dinkins, Edward Ellis IV, Aniyah Bussey, Samuel Ellis, Alexis Bussey, and William Ellis. Nephews: Leonard A. Brown, Rev. Matthew (Dorothy) Brown, Jr., Alvin (Lisa) Ellis, Jr., Dr. Anthony (Susie) Ellis, Byron (Frances) Jones, Rev. Shannon O. Smith, Sr. and Robert (Nicole) Ellis, Jr., Nieces: Candis Williams Brown, Wanda Ellis, and Maxine (Lamar) Jones & Lorraine Spruill. Brother in Law: Rev. Matthew S. Brown, Sr. Sisters-In-Law: Mary Ellis Carter and Catherine Jackson. He also leaves to mourn a host of family and friends.

Adams announces graveside services which will be held 1:00 P.M., Thursday, June 11, 2020 at Laurel Grove South Cemetery.
Drive thru viewing will be held from 5 P.M.-8 P.M., Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at Adams Funeral Services.
A horse & carriage procession will leave from Historic First Bryan Baptist Church 575 W. Bryan St. on Thursday, June 11, 2020 at 12:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, please mail donations in his honor to First Bryan Baptist Church P. O. Box 1451 Savannah, GA 31402, or use the Givelify App under First Bryan Baptist Church where there is a link for Rev. Ellis.

Order Flowers & Sign Guestbook at www.AdamsFuneralServicesInc.com