Roll Call Tribute

Kent Gordon Ellis 

May 20, 1939 - May 18, 2023 

Kent Gordon Ellis went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 18, 2023 surrounded by his family. Kent was born on May 20, 1939 in Dallas, TX, to J.D. and Martha Ethel Ellis of Rule, TX. He grew up in Dallas and attended Crozier Technical School, then furthered his education at Texas A&M College. While attending Texas A&M, Kent met the love of his life, Sharon Silk of John and Helen Silk. They married on September 14, 1962. He affectionately referred to her as “Doll”.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. After graduation, Kent joined the Army as a commissioned officer from 1963-1967. As a captain in the Army, Kent flew the H-13 and UH-1 Huey helicopters as he served two tours; one of which was in Korea and the second in Vietnam.

While in Vietnam, his first daughter, Fair Ellis (Sawyer), was born. Kent was able to come home for a short time after her birth to see her. Sharon spent time recording messages using a reel to reel of her and Fair’s day to day life to send to Kent while he was in Vietnam. Kent and Sharon then had their second daughter, Aimee-Grace Mattie Ellis (Jordan). Kent and Sharon completed their family with his namesake, Kent Gordon Ellis Jr.

Kent flew for TWA as an Engineer on the 707, as well as a First Officer and Captain on the 727. He took his family on many adventures all over the world. Over the years Aimee-Grace was often his travel partner. They enjoyed many trips together. Kent Jr. followed in his footsteps at A&M and is a pilot for American Airlines. Kent Jr. credits his entire flying career to his dad.

As the years went on, he embraced each of his children’s spouses, Mark Sawyer, Jason Jordan, and Lyndse Ellis, as part of the family. Most importantly, though, he took his role of Papaw very seriously. Kent loved being a Papaw. His grandchildren Jasmine Dawn Jordan, Alexander Lee Jordan, Kent Gordon Ellis III, Kendse Fair Ellis, and Ellie Grace Ellis all adored him. From hiding mints in his shirt pockets for them to find, teaching them how to swing, listening attentively to how their school day went and always offering unsolicited advice, Kent loved spending time with each of his grandchildren.

Kent was not only a great family man, but he loved to serve his community. After he retired from the FAA, he was involved with Meals on Wheels, Citizens On Patrol for the Lewisville Police Department, and read with first grade students in Lyndse’s classroom.

Kent was a great storyteller and would sometimes tell you the same story each time he saw you. He had many life experiences and shared his wisdom with those around him, whether or not they really wanted to hear it. He made an impact on many people throughout his life and his light will continue to shine through those who loved him most. Kent will be greatly missed, but his legacy will carry on through each of his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider a donation to Disabled American Veterans, www.dav.org