Elder James Ellis, Sr. was born in Marianna, Florida on October 23, 1928.  He was the beloved son of the late  Reverend Joe Bryant and Blanch Willis.

Very early in life, Elder Ellis was taught the Word of God and the importance of living a life of integrityand loving kindness.  As a youth, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior.  In later years as he continued his journey in Christ, he was a founding member of Jefferson Street House of God Saints In Christ (now Litman Cathedral HOGSIC) who served faithfully for over 70 years.  His love for God and the church was strengthened and his spiritual gifts were nurtured under the guidance of the late Bishops Nick S. Hightower, Sr., J. L. Man, A. F. Caldwell, and Bishop Michael A. White.  His journey brought multiple levels of service in various capacities and ministries, including Sunday School Teacher, Trustee, Deacon, Youth Pastor, Pastor's Appreciation Committee member, and member of the choir.  He was also a gifted musician who played the guitar, drums, and the accordion; and "Be What You Are and Live the Life" and Down Here, No Hiding Place Down Here" were notably his favorite songs. Elder Ellis was sincere about his life of salvation and his unfaltering walk with Christ.  Though an ordained elder in the church, he was affectionately known as "Deacon Ellis" among the body of believers.

Elder Thomas was united in holy matrimony to Mildred D. James who preceded him in death.  He was a devoted husband and father who loved, protected, and provided for his family through his employment at Bob's Candies until his retirement.  A man of many trades, he was the "go-to guy" that everyone relied upon for very diverse needs.

Uncle Jim, as he was affectionately called, was a true man of God who was best described as a people person, a trusted advisor, and a faithful servant who never met a stranger.  His gigantic smile and charming personality spilled over into the lives of countless people; and his doors were always open to travelers, preachers, and saints—all who became cherished friends.

On March 6, 2024, God called his faithful servant home. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was predeceased by four children, James Ellis, James Ellis, Carlton Ellis, and Roderick Dean Ellis.

Loving memories will forever remain with his children, Charles Allen(Marian) Ellis, Janice Ellis Edwards, Tanya Ellis Williams, Keshia Johnson, and Travis Crawford; and a great community of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends.