John James Ellis

John James Ellis “Big John”, aged 81, passed away on June 30, 2024, in “Carlyss, America”. Born on December 26, 1942, in New Orleans, LA, he was a cherished figure in his community and a beloved family man.
John’s early years were marked by his enthusiasm for rodeo, participating in the Sulphur High School Rodeo as a saddle bronc rider and bull rider. He worked at Kinney Ranch & Lawton Ranch where his lifelong passion for cattle and horses flourished. John also dedicated many years to Fredman’s Shipyard & Water Works in Sulphur and became a skilled welder, traveling across the country working on pipelines. He retired after 50 years of service from Local 198, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
A devout member of Lighthouse Tabernacle Church in Sulphur, LA for 51 years, John’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He loved God wholeheartedly and his faith was evident in his everyday actions and interactions.
John was well-loved for his generous spirit and was known as someone who never met a stranger. He was a mentor to many, always ready to offer guidance or support. His family was paramount in his life, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and strong family values.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharon Debby Ellis; son, Johnny James Ellis of Sulphur, LA; daughter, Kellie Ellis Areno and her husband Kenny of Sulphur, LA; grandchildren Aaron Kent Areno and wife Mandy Breaux Areno of Sulphur; great-grandchildren Kaleigh Gale Goodrich and husband Gabriel Goodrich of DeQuincy, LA and Jaxon Kent Areno of Sulphur, LA; grandchildren Miriam Areno Melancon and husband Brad Melancon of Sulphur, LA; great grandchildren Kenzy Paige Melancon and Jace Michael Melancon of Sulphur, LA; son, Neil Paul Ellis of Sulphur, LA; grandchild Leah Ellis Cromer of Ohio; daughter, Debby Ellis Morris and her husband Tony of Scott, LA; grandchildren Eli Ellis Brinkley and wife Elizabeth Burt Brinkley of Fort Liberty, NC; daughter in law Jackie Ellis and grandchildren Jim Ellis and John Patrick Ellis of Vinton, LA and a sister-like figure, Betsy Ann Jacobson of New York City. John was preceded in death by his parents, James Frank Ellis and Thelma Lyons Ellis.
Visitation will be held on Monday, July 1, 2024, from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM at Lighthouse Tabernacle Church in Sulphur. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the same location, followed by interment at Mimosa Pines Cemetery South. Johnson & Robison Funeral Home of Sulphur, LA, is assisting the family with arrangements. Western attire will be appropriate to wear in his honor for the funeral.
John’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.
Words of comfort and memories can be shared with the family at www.robisonfuneralhome.com