Bayard Ellis

Mr. Bayard Fraker Ellis passed away Saturday morning, June 26, 2004 at Baylor Hospital in Waxahachie, Texas. He was married to his one and only wife of 56 years, Devota Halbrook Ellis. Much of their life together was spent in Paradise, California where they owned and operated a motel. They retired in Rogers, Arkansas where they were active members of Fellowship Bible Church until their health slowed them down. November 18, 2002 they moved to Pleasant Manor Health and Rehabilitation in Waxahachie to be closer to their nephew and his family, Joe and Lesa Barrentine.

Mr. Ellis was born June 15, 1912 in Alda, Nebraska to Charles Elmer and Bertha Franker Ellis. He graduated with the Class of 1930 from Central City High in Central City, Nebraska and went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts in Music from Penn College, Oskaloosa, Iowa on August 12, 19033. Mr. Ellis obtained his pilot's license and enjoyed flying as well as motorcycling, traveling, and family get togethers. He and his wife participated in most activities together and both enjoyed enjoyed music. Mr. Ellis was one of the original members of the Bella Vista Men's Chorus in Bella Vista, Arkansas. The Chorus traveled to events all around the State of Arkansas. He also was a very active and leading figure in the local theatre performances while living in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Mr. Ellis was predeceased by his daughter Beverly Ellis, brother Don Ellis and sister Esther Kay Ellis Blume and is survived by his wife Devota Halbrook Ellis, nephews and nieces Joe Barrentine, Paul Barrentine, Ferman Barrentine, Margaret Barrentine, Kay Linback, Donna Harrison, Ricky Halbrook and Mary Lynda Halbrook, Carol Ellis Montague, Diane Runyan Floyd, Don Runyan and David Runyan and sister-in-law Mary Katherine Halbrook together with great nephews and nieces and other family and friends.

A Memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Waxahachie at 10:00 AM, Saturday, July 3, 2004 with Brother Paul Barrentine officiating. Donations or memorials are suggested for your local church or to the Gideons International.

www.waynebozefuneralhome.com

www.waynebozefuneralhome.com