Sara Jacqueline “Jackie” Terry Ellis departed this life on December 15, 2023. She was born on July 3, 1939, in Alamo, TN to the late James Buchanan Terry and Locie Mai Wright Terry. Sara lived a life dedicated to service and brought joy to all who knew her.
Sara started her professional journey working as a phone operator and ended up in administration with Bell South. Her dedication and hard work were evident throughout her career. Colleagues admired her attention to detail and commitment to excellence. She was a valued member of the team and left a lasting impact on those she worked with.
While Sara accomplished many great things professionally, it was in her personal life that she truly shined. Known for her feisty personality and quick wit, Sara always had a clever remark at the ready. She would often say, “Well flip my nickel,” bringing laughter wherever she went.
However, above all else, Sara loved her family more than anything else in the world. Her home was always filled with warmth and delicious aromas emanating from her cooking endeavors. Whether it was preparing traditional family recipes or trying out new culinary creations, Sara’s meals were made with love and care.
In addition to dedicating herself to her family’s happiness, Sara also found time to give back to her community. She was actively involved in charity work with St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the C.P. Telethon. Recognizing the importance of service and helping those in need, she tirelessly volunteered her time and resources to support these noble causes.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, James Lee Ellis, Jr. (Heather), Cindy Kaye Ellis Hailey (Danny), and Marci Anne Ellis Brown (Jim); and grandchildren, Jordan Ellis, Kenedy Ellis, Buckley Ellis, Rachel Duncan Belew, Laura Brooke Hailey, and Katie Jane Brown.
Aside from her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Ellis, Sr. and her son, Brian Hayes Ellis.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the service at 12:00 p.m. A celebration of life service will be held in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors and Crematory at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. A private burial will follow.
Sara Jacqueline Ellis will be remembered for her loving nature, compassionate heart, and selfless dedication to her family and community. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the kindness she showed to all. We bid farewell to a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on our lives. Rest in peace, Sara, knowing that your love and spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org, American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org.
