Joseph Hudson Ellis Jr., DuPont retiree

Joseph Hudson Ellis Jr., 93, of Lewes, passed away Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at Beebe Healthcare. He was born in Wilmington, son of the late Joseph and Vera (McClearen) Ellis.

Joseph graduated from Conrad High School and earned a scholarship to attend Goldey-Beacom College, where he excelled in basketball. He married Dorothy in Elkton, Md., Jan. 10, 1986, beginning a loving partnership that spanned decades. 

Joseph dedicated his career to the DuPont Company, where he worked until his retirement at 55. In his retirement, he enjoyed a range of hobbies, including playing golf, and poker in his younger years. He was a regular at the VFW, relishing the camaraderie over $0.25 beers.

A passionate sports fan, he proudly cheered for the Eagles and Phillies, and found joy in collecting coins throughout his life. Joseph will be deeply missed as a devoted father, loving husband, and cherished grandfather. His legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering support will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who loved him. Joseph is survived by his wife of 38 years, Dorothy "Dot" Ellis; his daughter, Dori Kennedy (John); his stepdaughters, Joann Duffy (Rick Palatucci) and Janice Thompson; his stepsons, Bill Bartosh (Kathy) and Don Bartosh (Marie); 16 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 13, at Parsell Funeral Homes, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where family and friends may begin visiting at 2 p.m. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association, heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give.

Visit Mr. Ellis' Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.