Richard Joel Ellis

Richard Joel Ellis, born on June 27, 1943, in Cordele, Georgia, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy marked by a deep commitment to family and community.

Richard’s early years were distinguished by his spirited athletic pursuits. He excelled in multiple sports throughout high school. He furthered his education at Gordon Military College and West Georgia College, where he continued to build the foundation of discipline and leadership that would guide him throughout his life. Richard proudly served in the Army Reserves, earning commendations for sharpshooting and physical fitness, exemplifying his steadfast dedication to service.

His professional career reflected a life of hard work and achievement. Richard began his career working alongside his father and younger brother for many years at Ellis Farm Equipment before joining Wilmar. His outstanding performance earned him numerous accolades, including awards from Massey Ferguson and the prestigious Circle of Excellence award from Wilmar, honoring his exceptional contributions to the industry.

A man of Baptist faith, Richard cherished spending time with his family and was particularly devoted to his wife, Sandra, and their dogs, Charlie and Hank. His interests were golf, fishing, and watching sports. His love of the outdoors was manifest in his enthusiasm for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, gardening, and working in his yard. Richard also found joy in shopping, embracing life's simple pleasures with enthusiasm.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Ellis; his sons and daughters-in-law, Doug and April Ellis and Mark and Christi Ellis, both of Ashburn; his stepson Ashley Goss of Athens and stepson and daughter-in-law Christopher and Jana Goss of Florence, South Carolina. He also leaves behind his brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Phyllis Ellis of Cordele; his sister Gloria Pylant of Athens; grandchildren Alex and Renee Ellis of Tifton and John Connor Ellis of Illinois, a great-grandchild Owen Ellis of Tifton, nieces and nephews Alice Rearden and Patrick McMaster of Athens and William David Ellis of Philadelphia, PA and a great niece and several great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton Earnest Ellis and Frances Childs Ellis.

A visitation to honor Richard’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Perry Funeral Chapel in Ashburn, GA. The funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. A private, family only graveside service will be held later.

While flowers will be accepted, for those who wish donations may be made to First Baptist Church in Ashburn or the United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc. at the following website, https://www.ostomy.org/donate/