Greenville – Wilodean Ellis, 81, of Greenville, died Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at her residence in Greenville, surrounded by a loving family and close friends. Born Oct. 29, 1941 in Greenville, she was a faithful member of Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church in Greenville, where she served in the following capacities: Primary Sunday School Teacher, a District and Local Missionary, an annual Conference and Local Usher, a Deaconist of her local church, Stewardess Board Member, Choir Member, served on the Kitchen Committee and was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. She was a devoted worker for Betty Dempsey, Jan Camplin, E. & F. Cleaning Service, Eaves Insurance and Holt Store.
Her husband, Billie Ellis, son, Lamont Douglas Ellis, parents, Howard and Gertrude Drake, one brother, William Drake, one sister, Yvonne Drake Bard and one son-in law Ali Lopez, all preceded her in death.
Survivors include three daughters, Karen Ellis of Valley Stream, N.Y., Jennifer D. Ellis, and Tyjuana L. Ellis both of Greenville; one grandchild, La-Guane Dontay Mackie of Louisville; four brothers, Billy ( Buffy) Drake of Madisonville, Randell Drake of Browder, Kenneth (Debra) Drake of Greenville, and Allen (Brenda Sue) Drake of Providence; six sisters, Cozetta Drake of Greenville, Mary (George) Baker of Greenville, Pat (George) Cox of Central City, Reda (Jerry) Reynolds of White Plains, Freda Drake of Bowling Green, and Bernice Baker of Louisville; two aunts, Rosie Mae Bard of Greenville, and LouElla Drake of Crofton; one sister-in-law, Claudette Taylor of Central City; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Funeral services will be Monday, August 28, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. at the First Presbysterian Church, 158 S. Main St., Greenville with pastor Jimmy Brown officiating and Rev. Donald Thomas, eulogist. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at the church on Monday . Burial will follow in West End Cemetery in Greenville. Bibbs Funeral Home in Greenville is in charge of arrangements.
