James Edward Ellis, 85 of Middletown, VA, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at his home.

Ed was born in 1940 in Groton, MA, the son of the late Vaughn and Margaret Ellis. He served our country proudly in the United States Army during the Korean Defense. Ed retired in 2008 after working for 35 years for Murray Printing as a press operator and 15 years for Lear Company as a molding operator. He was the past Commander of the VFW Post 2123 Honor Guard, a lifetime member of the VFW, and a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 21 as well as the AMVETS. Ed was also a motorcycle enthusiast and was a member of Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 – Virginia for over 25 years. He was a NASCAR, Redskins, hockey, and baseball fan. Ed also enjoyed spending time out fishing.

He is survived by his significant other, Ruth Spitler; daughter, Tammy McIntosh of Middletown; and brothers, David Ellis of Florida, John Ellis (Kathy) of Ayer, MA, and Ralph Ellis (Judi) of Fayetteville, AR.

In addition to his parents, Ed is preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte (Ritter) Ellis; sister, Ruth Jackson and his brother, Charles Ellis.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 5pm to 7pm with a service to be conducted at 7pm at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ed to Blue Ridge Care, 333 W. Cork St., Suite 405, Winchester, VA 22601 or Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 at www.rollingthunder1.com/donate.