Sylvester "Buddy" Ellis

Retired U.S. Army SFC Sylvester “Buddy” Ellis, 90, of Rossville, GA, died on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

He was born in Martin Springs, TN to the late Hershel Thomas Ellis and Mary Ellen Wise Ellis Caldwell and was of the Baptist faith.

Buddy enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1960, serving as a Track Vehicle Mechanic and Automotive Repairer. During his time in the service, he earned numerous awards including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with ’60 Device, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Device, Army Good Conduct Medal, and Army Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badges. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1980.

He was preceded in death by two children, Timothy Ellis and Matthew Ellis.

Survivors include his loving and devoted wife, Lois B. Warren Ellis; children, Johnny Ellis, Philip (Martha) Ellis, Stephen (Valerie) Fraley and Lisa (Dean) Gentry; grandchildren, Jessica, Brittany, Ben, Richard, Dustin, Jordan, Heather, and Tyler; several great-grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy Dent and Katie Moran; several nieces and nephews.

Buddy's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at NHC HealthCare Fort Oglethorpe for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided. Special thanks are extended to JoMar, Koko, and Tammy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or any military organization in his honor.

The family will receive friends from 10 AM ~ 12 Noon Tuesday, August 4, 2026, followed by a Celebration of Buddy’s Life at 12:30 PM in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Randy Bell officiating. Interment will follow in the Chattanooga National Cemetery with Military Honors.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343, (423) 531-3975.