Wayne Ellis

SMSGT. Arthur Wayne Ellis (Ret.) went to his Heavenly home Friday, February 23, 2018 in Lufkin. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church with The Reverend Ralph Morgan officiating. Graveside services with full military honors will follow in the Union Springs Cemetery in Corrigan.

Wayne was born May 30, 1946 in Diboll, Texas to the late Henry A. Ellis and Mable (Williams) Ellis.

Wayne joined the U.S. Air Force July 5, 1967, and proudly served his country for 26 years. He was an Inflight Refueling Specialist (Boom Operator) and loved every sortie he flew.

Wayne and his wife Marcia were mentors to every young airman in his squadron throughout his career, making lifelong friendships and precious memories all over the world. As Col. Dayre Lisa said, “He was an NCO leader extraordinaire whom others emulated.”

Wayne’s greatest loves were his God, his family, and his country. He was an exceptional husband to his lovely wife Marcia, who was the love of his life. They shared a bond that few will ever know. He was more than just Daddy to his children, he was their Superhero.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Marcia, children and spouses, Christine and Terry Walls of Grand Cane, Louisiana, Debbie Milstead and fiancé Paully McCann of Nacogdoches, and Steven Wayne and Kristin Ellis of Lufkin. He was blessed with eight grandchildren, Maura Pellerin, Terry Walls III, Jacob Pellerin, Ashton Walls, Madison Milstead, Ian Walls, Emma Milstead, and Reed Wayne Ellis. His is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Martha and Ralph Loggins of Lufkin, special cousin and spouse, Nancy and Darrell Burditt of Corpus Christi, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends.

In addition to his parents and older brother, Wayne was preceded in death by his buddy, Batman the cat.

Wayne has flown his last flight West, boom stowed.

Pallbearers will be the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard.

Honorary pallbearers will be Hank Ellis, Terry Walls III, Jacob Pellerin, Ian Walls, Reed Wayne Ellis, Jason Patton, and Kenny Tisdel.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at Carroway Funeral Home.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.