GRAVETTE — Charles Edward (Eddie) Ellis,

71, of Gravette, Ark., died Sunday, October 17, at his home. He was born December 30, 1949, in Charleston, S.C., to Russell Jonathan and Doris Ivy (Thibodeaux) Ellis.

Eddie and his wife, Cheryl White, married in Texas City, Texas, in 1977, then moved to El Dorado, Ark., where they raised their family, and were active in church and community activities. In 2003, they relocated to northwest Arkansas.

Eddie worked as a cable technician and contractor for over 20 years, and as a route salesman for Frito Lay and Schwann’s Foods. After retirement, he spent several years as a bus driver for Bentonville schools.

Eddie was definitely the bright spot in his family. He never met a stranger. He loved a good story and a good meal. He had a heart for those less fortunate; and he dearly loved his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Bobby Ray Poffin-barger, Howard Ellis, Mitchell Ellis, and Russell Ivy (Rusty) Ellis.

Survivors include his wife, Cheryl Ellis of Gravette; two children, Joe Ellis (Carol) of Gravette, and Nikki Jones (Neal) of Bella Vista; seven grandchildren, Colin Ping An, Aaron Jonathan, Carson Reece, Lilly Jo, and Joseph Edward (Joey) Ellis, and Donte’ O’Neal and Kobe O’Neal Jones; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 23rd, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Bentonville, Ark.

Eddie made the decision last year to donate his body to the educational program at UAMS in Little Rock, so there will be no viewing or graveside service.

Memorials may be made to Compassion International at the address below. Donations will go to help support Allison Nicole Portillo, a nine-year-old girl that Eddie and Cheryl sponsor in El Salvador.

Please send checks to Compassion International, Colorado Springs, CO 80997 and include “For Allison Portillo, ES-994-0118” in the memo.

Condolences: www.eptingfuneralhome.webs.com