Ronald D. Ellis, 64

Maj. Ronald D. Ellis (USAF retired), died Jan. 28, 2004, at his residence in Mountain Home.

A native of North Carolina, he was born April 13, 1939 in Oxford, N.C., and grew up in Hampton, Va., where he attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute. Maj. Ellis was a navigator-bombardier, air operations and weapons systems officer. His aircraft assignments included C-130s, RF-4s and F-111s. He retired in 1984 from the 366th TFW (TAC) at Mountain Home AFB after 22 years of military service. He served in various theaters of operations including three tours in Vietnam, and received numerous medals and citations.

Ronald was a published amateur photographer, professional electrician, and expert marksman in diversified weapons. He was an ardent reader of international relations and American history. He was a member of the Military Officers Association of America, the National Rifle Association, the Air Force Association, and the Boy Scouts of America. He was a lifetime member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hampton, Va.

Ellis is survived by his sister, Ronda E. Smith (Mrs. Albert H. Smith) of Hampton, Va.; and two nephews, Kevin B. Smith of Nellis AFB, Nev., and Shannon E. Smith of Patrick AFB, Fla., and their families.

A memorial service of remembrance with military honors provided by Mountain Home American Legion Post 26 was held at Summers Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel, on Feb. 7. The family expresses appreciation to Mayor Joe B. McNeal and to the other close friends who attended and spoke at the service. Burial will be at a later date in Hampton, Va.