Ronald Lee Ellis, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and cherished friend, of New Smyrna Beach, died peacefully in his home with family, on Monday, January 27, 2025, he was 88 years old. Ron graduated high school in Columbus, OH then proudly served this country in the United States Navy Reserves, during wartime on an active ship. His life was a remarkable journey marked by love, perseverance, service to his community, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends. Born on February 5, 1936, he was the only child of Edmund and Evelyn Ellis. He worked for General Motors before relocating to Florida in 1965 and becoming an entrepreneur, built a beach wagon with his father, (which was in Daytona Beach), restaurateur, and owner/broker of Dolphin Realty in New Smyrna Beach for more than 20 years. Ronald was Commander of the Daytona Beach Power Squadron in the 1970s. He was involved in activities for Sacred Heart School and many organizations of his church community, including the Knights of Columbus of New Smyrna Beach. Ronald loved boating and fishing, but his greatest joy was time well spent with family and friends.

Ronald is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Barbara Jean Timmons, their children Kimberley Ellis Blanchette (Joseph, Sr.), Kevin Lee Ellis, and Terri Lynn Ellis Brearey (Pete), grandchildren, Dominic Ellis, Austin Ellis (Christine); Colton Ellis (Alysa), and Trenten Brearey, and great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Carter, Leland, and Jameson.

A celebration of life service will be held at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home, New Smyrna Beach, on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11 am