DAVID R. ELLSWORTH
While we grieve, we also celebrate the life of a wonderful man who is now resting at peace with the Lord. David R. Ellsworth passed from this life into life eternal on Thursday, October 29, 2020. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Betty M. Ellsworth, and is survived by his children, Nadine Ellsworth-Moran, her husband Bill; Raymond Ellsworth, his wife, Lori; Brian Ellsworth, his wife Judy; and his grandchildren, whom he adored, Amanda Ellsworth, Ryan Ellsworth, Raiya Ellsworth, and Kadin Ellsworth.
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, where he met his wife, Betty, who was also enlisted, David began a long career in banking, eventually becoming a Vice President with First Citizens Bank.
He retired (more than once, because he never sat still!) and then worked many years for the Clerk of Court’s office in Mecklenburg County.
David’s list of service and accomplishments are many. He believed strongly in civic duty and loved helping young people develop their leadership skills. A few of the many roles he occupied during his life include: involvement in many local civic groups, such as Civitan; past president of the South Park Merchants’ Association; former President of the Safety and Health Council of North Carolina; Chief of Security – North Carolina Special Olympic Games for Charlotte; served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary; instructor for U.S. Navy Sea Cadets; and former Chief of Reserves for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.
However, he was most proud of his time with the Civil Air Patrol (U.S. Air Force Auxiliary) where he rose to the rank of Colonel and served as North Carolina Wing Commander, Middle East Region Commander, and the National Director of the International Air Cadet Exchange. In addition, he was a licensed private pilot and loved all things aviation related.
As impressive as David’s life and record of service are, he will perhaps be best remembered for his ever-present smile, the twinkle in his eye, the (sometimes corny) jokes, and the many stories he had at the ready. David loved people and getting to know their stories as well. He made friends around the world and down the hall. He was a man of faith, integrity, and good humor, a loving father and husband, and never missed an opportunity for a good meal! His legacy will live on through the good works he began and the good heart he shared. It was a life well lived, fulfilling the words of Matthew 25: 23, Well done, good and faithful servant.
In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation to the Veterans charity of your choice, Charlotte Special Olympics, or Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church.
3 Comments
Chip McDonald
A beautiful service for a wonderful man, David Ellsworth will truly be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Sara J. Miller
Thank you for sharing that beautiful tribute to David, a wonderful man and a good friend.
Jeffrey G. Scott
Raymond, Brian and Nadine, there will never be enough words to express our deepest sorrow for the loss of David. He and Betty became such wonderful friends to me, Beverly and our children, Sydney and Zachary. We enjoyed the many times David would come over to just check on us and to chat. What a wonderful man and we are so grateful to have known him. And yes, he had a wonderful smile, but a better laugh. And the stories he shared with us were some of the funniest, most intriguing and exciting we have ever been told. I always enjoyed seeing him walk around the back corner of his house, cane in hand, heading my way to chat. Bev and I would pull out some chairs and we would sit with him and enjoy his company. I know you will miss him. I can tell you Bev and I have. Just know that he is one of the most honorable men I have ever met. He is a gentleman’s gentleman. Know he is now with Betty and both are with the Lord. Bev and I love him as if he was our Father. Please have peace, I know David is wrapped in it.
Jeff, Beverly, Sydney and Zachary