Gary Ellis

Gary Ellis, 82, of Blanchester Ohio, formerly of Hickory, Pa passed away on April 21, 2023, after a brief illness.

He was the son of Wayne and Elizabeth (Evans) Ellis. He graduated from Hickory High School where he was a stand-out basketball and baseball player. His nickname was “Whitey” because of his very light blonde hair. He went on to coach Little League baseball in the Shenango Valley for many years. He mentored many youths in the area. Gary was also a member of the Pennsylvania National Guard Reserves.

He loved fishing, and gardening and was a semi-professional photographer. Many of his animal photos were published in Barron’s educational series of animal books. He was also the photographer for Harlan Twp. Fire Department for many years.

He was married to the former Mary Lyden of Farrell, Pa for over 50 years. He constantly teased her about being an Italian from Farrell! His greatest joys were his 3 children and a special bond with his grandson.

His parents preceded him in death. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Mary and his children, Kurt Ellis and Carrie Ellis of Maineville, Ohio, and Michele (Tom) Branham of Pleasant Plain, Ohio. And his best buddy, grandson Evan Branham.

He also leaves his brother Tom (Carole) Ellis of Hermitage, Pa, and a sister, Janyce (Butch) Schaller of Clark, Pa.

A celebration of life will be held at the Harlan Twp Fire Department on

May 7 from 1-4.

Any contributions can be made to the fire station in his memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Ellis, please visit our floral store.