Richard William Ellison, 80, a resident of McComb, MS, passed away on April 26, 2022 at the Community Living Center, a Veterans Nursing Home, in Orlando, FL with his daughters by his side.

Richard was born April 1, 1942 in Pierpoint, WV. He was the son of the late Buford Arnold Ellison and Beulah Vadeline Ellison.

Richard was a Vietnam Era War Veteran. He served three tours in the war, only in his final days relating his duty with Combat Infantry. He achieved the rank of Sergeant dates of service include two enlistments 28-Nov-7961 to 10-May-1967 and 7-April-1969 to 11-Aug both tours culminated with Honorable Discharges. Richard went on to earn a masters degree in education and was a retired Louisiana School Teacher.

Richard had a heart generous beyond measure and a way about him of always lifting up any fellow soul in need that he encountered. He was a God fearing man, a soldier, a teacher, a loving husband, a father, a grandfather and great-grandfather, but mostly he was our Hero! He will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Almeda Grace Modale, infant brother Donnie Ellison, and his son Buford "Billy" William Lee Ellison.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, he lovingly referred to as "My Girl", ILA Jean Ellison of Ocean Springs, MS. Richard leaves behind a brother, Vernon Simmons and three sisters Veronica Sue Patrick, Connie Louise Ellison Torres, and Mary Ellison Odom, two daughters Lisa Ellison Griffin and Tina Marie Johnson, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Richard will be buried, with Military Honors at Biloxi National Cemetery on Saturday, May 28 at 9:00 AM. 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi, MS 39531. Family and friends will gather following the burial to celebrate our Hero at 10 AM location is VFW Post 2434 Biloxi located at 1644 Pass Road, Biloxi, MS.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.