December 28, 2011

Lonnie Charles Ellis, 70, formerly of Suffolk, died suddenly on Dec. 28, 2011, at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, N.C.

Mr. Ellis was a great fisherman and was loved by all. He coached Pee Wee football for 20 years and was a mentor to many kids. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 702.

He retired from Carowinds as a supervisor of roller coasters.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Cook Ellis of Charlotte; two daughters, Velvet Ellis Calhoun and husband Gary, and Pamely Young Craig and husband Jamie, all of Charlotte; a son David Young and wife Camille, of Charlotte; a sister, Thomesine Ellis Draper and husband Bobby of Suffolk, Va.; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Thomas Ellis, his mother, Pauline Kilpatrick Ellis, and his brother, Luther Ellis, all of Suffolk.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrews Masonic Lodge No. 702, 4630 Tuckaseegee Road, Charlotte, N.C., 28208.

A memorial and Masonic service was held Dec. 31, 2011, at New Life Baptist Church, with the Rev. Bo Osborn and Masonic brothers officiating.