Donald William Ellis

Donald William Ellis, age 79, of Dresden, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Van Ayer Nursing Home in Martin.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Bowlin Funeral Home beginning at 5:00pm until service time at 6:00pm. Paul Holdeman will officiate the service. Casual dress code is acceptable for the visitation and service.There will be no burial to follow.

Born in Hickman, Kentucky, Donald was the son of the late Leslie L. Ellis and Dorothy R. Gilliam. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who lived a life full of love for family, friends, and the great outdoors.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patti Ellis; two sons, Daniel L. Ellis and Jason M. (Nicole) Ellis; one daughter, Sherri L. (Randy) Dial; grandchildren Amanda (Jason) Funderburk, Crissy (Charlie) Clark, Mercedes Ellis, Caiden Ellis, BT Ellis, Caleb Ellis, and Xavier Ellis; and great-grandchildren Eric Funderburk, Aniston Funderburk, Carysn Clark, and Hattie Proffitt. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tilman Ellis.

Donald was an avid hunter and fisherman, always eager to share his love of the outdoors with those around him. He also had a passion for motorcycles and spent countless joyful hours riding. After retiring from Goodyear, he and Patti enjoyed traveling together, often visiting with family and friends along the way.

A man with a generous spirit, Donald, alongside his loved ones, helped organize numerous fundraisers in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He also took great pride in supporting his grandchildren in all of their activities, never missing a chance to cheer them on.

In memory of Donald, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.