Edward Ells


Edward “Ted” Ells, a deeply devoted and loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2018, in Charlotte, at the age of 86. Ted was born April 27, 1932, the son of William and Aletha (Root) Ells.  He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1950 with a letter in every sport. Soon after, he enlisted in the Army National Guard and served nine years. Ted married the love of his life, Ann Ruth McMillen on November 14, 1953 and the two enjoyed 43 years together before her death on January 22, 1996. He worked for General Motors for 32 years, never missing a day of work. He retired in 1997 and continued an active lifestyle as a member of the Charlotte Moose Club, the American Legion, and the Charlotte Fraternal order of Eagles #3552. He enjoyed showing off his Eagle membership card with an expiration date in the year 3042. Ted enjoyed Tuesday breakfast with his cousins, and started many adult softball fast pitch leagues as pitcher. He enjoyed his daily routines, stubbornly sticking to them throughout the years. Many will remember Ted as a very generous friend to many, with a prankster sense of humor and always making others smile. He treated everyone he knew as family, and knew someone everywhere he went. Above all, Ted loved his children and grandchildren.

Ted is survived by hais daughters, Ann (Scott) Britton of Charlotte; Rebecca (Gary) Bala of Mulliken; Tina Ells (Dale) of Olivet, Debbra Jones (Mark) of Arizona; son, Ed (Tiffany) of Colorado; 13 grandchildren, Bob, Tresa, Levi, Casie, Jason, Blake, Karli, Devin, Paige, Morgan, Lindsay, Olivia, and Logan; 15 great-grandchildren; loving sister, Marilyn (Carroll) Briggs of Charlotte; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Aletha; sister, Elaine; brothers, Maynard (Mickey), Willard (Bill), Donald; and his wife of 43 years, Anna.

Funeral services were Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Interment took place in Maple Hill Cemetery.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to McLaren Hospice of Lansing.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Ted on his Tribute Page at PrayFuneral.com.