MOUNT VERNON — Ernie Lee Ellis, age 83, peacefully left this earth on February 21, 2023, in Brandon, Florida.

Second son of C.E. (Charles Earl “Swamp”) Ellis and Dorothy Ruth (Minor) Ellis. The family resided in Mt. Vernon for many years until he moved his family to Florida in 1975.

He is survived by sister Deloris Ellis, of Marion, and daughter/granddaughter, Sherry & Morgan Ellis, of Brandon, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Marvin Ellis and infant brother, Earl Eugene.

Ernie went to college and obtained a BA Degree in Art. He traveled out west and put those skills to work painting, drawing can still be found in the area. His working career began in the oil fields with his father. He also followed him to Operating Engineers (Local 520) where he eventually retired.

In his glory, he was a thoroughbred horse trainer. He loved the animal and was so in tune was often referred to as the “horse whisperer”. He could get a lame, broken down horse nursed back to health and on track winning races. Oh, the stories he told!!

RIP sweet soul, you were a wonderful person and are missed by those who knew and loved you.

ALL friends and family are invited to graveside and/or Celebration of Life ceremonies on Sunday, March 5, 2023.

Graveside service will be held from 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Harmony Cemetery in Bluford. Celebration of Life Services will follow from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at Bonnie Cafe at the airport in Mt. Vernon.