Col. David R. Ellsworth

[ironputts]

November 2, 2020

Col. David R. Ellsworth
Region Headquarters
Mid-Atlantic Region

DAVID R. ELLSWORTH

While we grieve, we also celebrate the life of a wonderful man who is now resting at peace with the Lord.  David R. Ellsworth passed from this life into life eternal on Thursday, October 29, 2020.   He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Betty M. Ellsworth, and is survived by his children, Nadine Ellsworth-Moran, her husband Bill; Raymond Ellsworth, his wife, Lori; Brian Ellsworth, his wife Judy; and his grandchildren, whom he adored, Amanda Ellsworth, Ryan Ellsworth, Raiya Ellsworth, and Kadin Ellsworth.

After serving in the United States Marine Corps, where he met his wife, Betty, who was also enlisted, David began a long career in banking, eventually becoming a Vice President with First Citizens Bank.  He retired (more than once, because he never sat still!) and then worked many years for the Clerk of Court's office in Mecklenburg County.

David's list of service and accomplishments are many.  He believed strongly in civic duty and loved helping young people develop their leadership skills.  A few of the many roles he occupied during his life include: involvement in many local civic groups, such as Civitan; past president of the South Park Merchants' Association; former President of the Safety and Health Council of North Carolina; Chief of Security - North Carolina Special Olympic Games for Charlotte; served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary; instructor for U.S. Navy Sea Cadets; and former Chief of Reserves for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department. However, he was most proud of his time with the Civil Air Patrol (U.S. Air Force Auxiliary) where he rose to the rank of Colonel and served as North Carolina Wing Commander, Middle East Region Commander, and the National Director of the International Air Cadet Exchange.   In addition, he was a licensed private pilot and loved all things aviation related.

As impressive as David's life and record of service are, he will perhaps be best remembered for his ever-present smile, the twinkle in his eye, the (sometimes corny) jokes, and the many stories he had at the ready.  David loved people and getting to know their stories as well.  He made friends around the world and down the hall.  He was a man of faith, integrity, and good humor, a loving father and husband, and never missed an opportunity for a good meal!  His legacy will live on through the good works he began and the good heart he shared.  It was a life well lived, fulfilling the words of Matthew 25: 23, Well done, good and faithful servant.