WAYCROSS — Mrs. Vernell Arthur Ellis, 86, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2026, at her residence in Waycross following an extended illness.
She was born in Fitzgerald, Ga., to the late William Lloyd Arthur and Geraldine Benford Arthur. Vernell retired as a licensed practical nurse from Waycross Internal Medicine after many years of dedicated service. Following her retirement, she and her husband traveled the country in their motor home, creating cherished memories and enjoying many adventures together.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Howell; a brother-in-law, Denny Wayne Lupton, Sr.; and a grandson, Eli Hickman.
She is survived by her husband of 59 years, James Ellis of Waycross; four children, Byron Strickland (Arlene) of Lakeland, Variee Strickland VanLaningham of Waycross, Jeff Ellis of Waycross, and Renea Hickman of Rhine; eight grandchildren, Celia Mc-Clelland (Jeremiah), Rachel VanLaningham, Matthew VanLaningham, Luke VanLaningham, Sarah Music (Brock), Hannah Ellis, Delena Mc-Donald, and Ali Hickman; numerous great grandchildren; one sister, Gayle Arthur Lupton of Edgefield, S.C; special nieces and nephews, Edwin Lowie (Caroline) of Wesley Chapel, Fla., Jessica Lupton of Edgefield, S.C, and Dennis Lupton, Jr. of Edgefield; and numerous other nieces and nephews.
A graveside service was held July 21 at Evergreen Cemetery in Fitzgerald.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.musicfuneralhome.c om.
Music Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangement.
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