Betty Ruth Ellis, age 83, passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2016. Born in Warren County, NC on February 28, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Burrell Taylor Smiley and Ruth Elizabeth Whitemore. She was also preceded in death by her husband, George Dillard "Bud" Ellis, Jr.; daughter, Mary Ruth Ellis; sister, Gracie Marie Young; and brothers, Burrell Jr. and Melvin Louis.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Johnson and husband, Paul, of Rocky Mount; and her sons, David Ellis of Colerain; and Stephen Ellis and wife, Tracey, of Nashville; and four grandchildren.

Serivces were held Sunday, May 15, 2016 at Benvenue Baptist Church, Rocky Mount with the Dr. Michael Creekmore officiating. Burial followed at Pineview Cemetery.

Arrangements by Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services Rocky Mount.