Donald Webb Ellis, 83, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 8, 2023 surrounded by family and friends.
He was born in Newport News, VA and graduated from Newport News High School in 1958. While there, he was very active in sports, playing basketball, baseball and football. He was a member of the 1956, 1957, and 1958 state championship basketball team.
Donald worked at Newport News Shipbuilding for 46 years, retiring in 2006. He was active in sports, serving as commissioner of the Peninsula Umpires Association as well as officiating basketball under the Peninsula Board of officials. Donald enjoyed shag dancing and was a member of the Two Left Feet Shag Club in Newport News, VA.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Thelma Ellis; and his brother, Nelson Ellis. Survivors include Carolyn Dailey Freeman; brother, Chris Ellis; sister, Barbara Ellis Preece and niece, Tricia O’Grady.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the local SPCA. A Graveside Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Peninsula Memorial Park.
