Jack Ellis Long

Jack Ellis Long, age 79, passed away peacefully March 13, 2022 and entered his heavenly home surrounded by his loving children, their mother and other family members.

Ellis was born November 4, 1942, in Plant City where he lived his entire life.

He was preceded in death by his parents Homer and Louise Long, son Charles Alan Long. He is survived by daughters Lisa Long and Sharon (Terry) Field, son David (Leigh Ann) Long, Nancy Beasley, best friend and mother of his children, grandchildren Erin, Emma and Evan Long, Lauren and Rebecca Field, sister Diane (Butch) Tucker, sister-in-law Rose Ann Pennington, and nieces Kristie, Katie. Jody and Cindy. (He will also be missed by his pets Benny Boy, Brutus and Nala.)

Ellis was in the graduating class of 1961 at Plant City High. While in high school he lettered in both baseball and basketball. He later played semi-pro baseball. His love of sport continued throughout his lifetime. He had many fond memories of playing softball and traveling to different cities and states to play in state and national tournaments, which his team usually won. His son also played on the team and was a great source of pride to his dad. As Ellis got older, he continued to play softball in the 40, 50, and 60 year old's age leagues. As a boy, his family vacationed every summer at Lake Wier near Ocala. where he excelled at water skiing. He taught his children and many of their cousins and friends to ski as well. His love of sports extended to the Lightning, the Bucs, the Rays, and the Gators.

Following High School, Ellis went to work for American Cyanamid. He began as an oiler on the draglines and worked his way up to Maintenance Superintendent, at American Cyanamid and later at IMC. After retirement he worked as Maintenance Superintendent for the Strawberry Festival.

Ellis became a Christian at an early age and was Baptized at Southside Baptist Church in Plant City. He had a strong faith in God. He was friendly and hardworking, willing to help anyone in need and had a ready smile for all he met. He never said anything bad about anyone. He loved his children dearly and they would tell you he was a wonderful father who was perfect in their eyes.

The family will be eternally grateful to his two "adopted" sons, Barron Huber and Timmy Walker for the loving care they gave Ellis during his last years, and he truly loved them like sons.

Ellis will be deeply missed by his family and his many friends.

We did not say goodbye, but rather see you later because we know he will be waiting for us to join him in Heaven.

A Memorial Service will be Held Saturday, March 26, 2022, at Shiloh Baptist Church, 905 West Terrace Drive in Plant City.
Visitation form 10:00 to 11:00 with services at 11:00.

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