Amanda Ellis

Amanda Ellis, Warsaw, went home to be with her Lord and Savior at 11:43 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Mason Health and Rehabilitation Center, Warsaw, at the age of 97.

She was born Aug. 31, 1922, in Canton, MS., to Leebirdia (Burks) Blackmon and Jessie Blackmon.  Amanda was first married to William Johnson, but sadly he passed away.  Later she was re-married to Walter Ellis, who survives.

Amanda had worked for over 40 years as a salesclerk for Sears, and always provided for her family as a proud homemaker.  No matter where she lived, the church was always the most important part of her life.  She dearly loved to worship her Lord and enjoyed the fellowship of her church family at Unity Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago.  For over 70 years she dedicated her time to serving her church as a vital part of the musical element…serving as choir director for the men’s choir, senior choir and the inspirational choir. She was the musical director for other numerous choirs, most times spending every weekday evening and weekends at the church enjoying her ministry in music.  Her most loved pastime and favorite way to worship was playing the piano for many, many church services for over 50 years.  Playing the piano at church on a Sunday was a whole day affair and she loved every minute of it.  She was also the Sunday School Superintendent, was part of the Baptist Training Union and was a member of various missionary boards throughout her lifetime. Amanda lived a long life and lived it to her own tune, and had just recently moved to Warsaw three years ago.  She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a friend to many. Amanda would most want to be remembered for her steadfast faith in her Savior Jesus Christ.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband: Walter Ellis; son: James (Alicia) Taylor (Warsaw); three grandchildren:  James E. Taylor, Jr. (Warsaw); Nerecia S. Taylor (Indianapolis); Patrick M.W. Taylor (Warsaw); and four great-grandchildren:  Jamison, Shauntae, King and Keziah. Also surviving is her sister:  Deseree Williams (Matteson, Ill.).

She was preceded in death by her first husband, William Johnson; brother, Willie Blackmon; and two sisters, Lula Johnson and Mary Lee Taylor.

Amanda’s life will be celebrated with a service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. Burial will follow with a graveside service at Oakwood Cemetery of Warsaw. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday.

Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website.