Tilden Ray Ellis

Tilden Ray Ellis, 85, of Prestonsburg, KY, passed away on September 5, 2023, at ARH/HRMC following an extended illness.

Tilden was born on June 14th, 1938. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ollie P. and Grace Derossett Ellis. After graduating from Prestonsburg High School in 1957, he enlisted in the United States Army where he was medically discharged. He returned home to begin his career with the Ky State Transportation Department from which he retired after 30 years of employment, working his way up from road crew to Resident Engineer. Tilden’s biggest road project was the cut through in Pikeville. He was very proud to have been a part of that massive endeavor.

On December 24th, 1957 Tilden and Vervie (Hall) were married. Their marriage of 64 years brought into this world 4 children, Richard (Vickie) Ellis, Sharon Ellis May, (Wayne), David (Susan) Ellis and Karen Lynn Ellis. All of Prestonsburg. 6 Grandchildren, Ashlee (Neil) Borders, Prestonsburg, Austin ( Kaitlin) May, Woodland Park CO, Alison(Christopher) Thornsberry , Prestonsburg, Michelle (Matthew) Wilson, Richmond, KY, Steven Bradley ( Cara ) May,  Pueblo CO and Michael Ellis, Lexington.

Tilden was very proud to have 3 wonderful and loving great-grandchildren. Alivia and Audree Borders and Matthew Wilson JR.

Tilden was a 55 year member of the Masonic Order, the East Point Masonic Lodge, and the Prestonsburg Masonic Lodge, The Eastern Star and the Scottish York Rite. He served as treasurer, chaplain, and Master during his years as a member. He actively served the Floyd County Rescue Squad for over 20 years.

Most recently he was honored to be named a Kentucky Colonel.

Tilden spent most of his adult years serving in the United Methodist Church. He was a Sunday School teacher, Lay Leader and Youth director. He spent his years after retiring enjoying his hobbies of bowling, fishing and woodworking. He is rather famous for his birdhouses which he gave away to those he encountered over the years.

In addition to his wife, Vervie, he was preceded in death by his  parents, 2 brothers, Willie George, and Ollie F Ellis, 2 sisters, Betty Hipsher, and Gloria Gaye Porter, and one son-in-law Wayne May.

He is survived by many friends, cousins and nieces and nephews who he was a “Father” to and will always miss him dearly.

The family wishes to thank all the wonderful staff at Fresenius Dialysis Center, HRMC CCU, the many doctors, especially his family doctor of over 30 years, Dr. Blake Burchett, Dr. Ayesha Sikder and Dr. Jack Kendrick for all the support and love so generously bestowed on the Ellis family.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Graveside service will be conducted Friday, September 8, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Gethsemane Gardens, Prestonsburg, KY, with Leigh Ann Maynard officiating.  A Masonic Service will also be conducted. 

In lieu of flowers the family ask that memorial contributions be made to your local food bank in honor of Tilden Ray Ellis.

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