Onis Newton Ellis

Onis Newton Ellis, 72, died Wednesday, November 21, 2012 following a six year battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family when his life on earth ended and his life in Heaven began.

He leaves his wife of 52 years, Tommie Nell (Abbott) Ellis; his son, David Ellis and his wife, Evelyn; his daughter, Diana (Ellis) Taylor and her husband, Charles; five grandchildren: Ashley (Ellis) Schroeder and husband, Jacob; Zachary Ellis, Elena Taylor, Julia Taylor and Stefan Taylor. He also leaves five brothers; Jack Ellis and special sister-in-law, Billie; Maurice Dee Ellis and wife, Naomi; Roger Ellis; Kenneth Ellis and wife, Barbara; and Jim Ellis. Mr. Ellis was preceded in death by his brother, Dick. Many close friends and family members will also miss this sweet man.

Born to George and Blanche Ellis and raised on a farm with six brothers in Texas and Missouri, Mr. Ellis learned the value of faith, family, hard work and simplicity. His faith journey began in childhood and he was baptized at the age of twelve. He moved to Redlands, California with his family in the 1950’s where he attended Redlands’ Senior High School and met the love of his life, Tommie. Mr. Ellis graduated from Monett High School in 1958.

After graduating from high school he returned to California and began working for Servomation Corporation in vending. He and Tommie Abbott were married in 1960 in Redlands.

During his years in Southern California, Mr. Ellis had the opportunity to sell Mac Tools and eventually became a district sales manager for the company. By attending night classes at Crafton Hills College and the University of Redlands, he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in business in 1985. Mr. Ellis capitalized on his knowledge of retail sales by starting O.N.E. Vending with his wife in the late 80’s. He enjoyed investing and keeping up with the stock market. Upon his retirement, Mr. Ellis and his wife moved to Abilene, Texas to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Mr. Ellis had a passion for goodness. He loved the United States of America and the principles on which it was founded. He was a member of the Church of Christ throughout his life and served as a deacon and elder. He also had a deep love of children. This could be seen in the close relationship he shared with his grandchildren and the heart he had for Sanctuary Home for Children, an orphanage in Tenali, India.

An avid traveler, Mr. Ellis and his wife enjoyed many opportunities to see the world through tours, cruises and camping trips. He had a special love of the Texas Hill Country and Ruidoso, New Mexico but was happiest when he was home with family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in the Lord. Truly….a life well lived.

A memorial service was held November 24 in Abilene.