T. Ellison, James

James T. Ellison, of 24 Elm St., Trumansburg, passed away at home on Monday, February 20, 2006 at the age of 85.

Born on December 22, 1920 in Ramer, Alabama, Jim was the son of Henry and Mary Frances Tucker Ellison. Following graduation in 1938 from the Montgomery County High School in Ramer, Jim began what was to become a lifelong profession of a skilled craftsman in carpentry.

Enlisting in the Army Air Force on June 29, 1940, Jim's potential was quickly realized as his commanding officers sought him out to train as a pilot. While stationed in Italy in 1944 and 1945, Jim piloted P-38's in the European Theater of Operations as a member of the 15th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron and was awarded an Air Medal and a Distinguished Unit Citation for his participation in 14 combat missions. On September 23, 1945, he was honorably discharged from the Army Air Force with the rank of Second Lieutenant.

Jim settled in the Trumansburg area in 1949, working for the Interlaken Central School before accepting his long-time position with Millspaugh Brothers in Trumansburg. Jim custom-built cabinets and performed remodeling in countless homes whose owners continue to enjoy the fruits of his labor to this day. Jim also enjoyed applying his carpentry skills while working at the Trumansburg Central School, for a decade, before his retirement in 1988.

Whether a person camped, played a round of golf, shared a cup of coffee at the Falls Restaurant or enjoyed a few hands of cards or board game playing at Juniper Manor with Jim, one always felt warmed by his presence. He also lifted the hearts of fellow members of the First Baptist Church in Trumansburg and the Trumansburg Senior Citizens.

Jim was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Ruth A. Millspaugh Ellison in 1989. He is survived by one son, Thomas (Christine) Ellison of Murrieta, CA; one daughter, Marie (Mark) Rich of Trumansburg; four grandchildren, Michael (Michelle) Ellison, James Ellison, Patrick Ellison and Kevin Rich and many nieces and nephews. Jim's family extends their heart-felt gratitude to Berta Schott of Enfield, who not only provided superb healthcare but also devoted herself to Jim with a sincere friendship over the past few years.

The family will be present to receive their friends at the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South St., Trumansburg on Friday, February 24, 2006, from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

Services will be held at the First Baptist Church, 4443 E. Seneca Rd, Trumansburg on Saturday, February 25, 2006 at 10:00am with the Rev. Pete Hood officiating. A Military Honors Tribute will be performed at the church by members of the Arthur E. Bouton American Legion Post #770 and members of the U.S. Air Force.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's memory may be directed to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 686, Trumansburg, NY 14886 or Hospicare, 172 E. King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.

For additional information, please contact the funeral home at 1-888-534-5446.

Page Submitted By: Joseph L. Sibley, Director