Bernard F. Ellis

Bernard Freeman Ellis was born on January 10,1937 to the late Adam Ellis Sr. and Mary Randolph in Saint Matthews S.C.. He was the youngest of 10 children and he was named by his older sister Edna Mae Ellis. Some knew him as the Turkey Height Kid after the street he grew up on but most people knew him as Freeman. Freeman attended John Ford High School as a teenager. Freeman loved to drive and while in school he used to drive the school bus for the Saint Matthews public school system. In 1955 Freeman enlisted in the US ARMY and served in the Korean War. He attained the rank of SP$ came home in late 1957. He was honorably discharged in 1963. On July 10,1958 Freeman wed his high school sweetheart Fairybell White. This union produced 5 children Juliet, Cynthia, Bernard Jr., Dennis and one unnamed baby. Shortly thereafter Freeman accepted Christ. In 1961 Freeman moved his family to the north where they lived in New Jersey, Harlem, before settling in the Bronx mainly Eastchester Gardens. The family immediately Joined Butler Memorial AME in the Bronx where they remained members until they returned to South Carolina. Freeman worked as Book Binder for 19 years until he joined his favorite job a Bus Driver for the Metropolitan Transit Authority. Freeman was awarded various safe driving certificates during his time. Freeman retired from the MTA in 1999. In 2004 Freeman and Fairybell returned home to Saint Matthews. He joined his Family church Bethel AME where he became an active member. He joined the choir and was a treasurer. He recently became the father of the church. In 2007 Freeman could not sit still and returned to his passion for driving by driving for the Saint Matthews public school system where worked until 2020. While retired Freeman got his high school diploma from ICS, became a certified legal aid received computer training. Freeman enjoyed traveling by car, Western Movies, Nascar races, CBS Soap Operas, Jimmy Reed’s Music. He also loved riding the subway while visiting New York. Freeman was a great farmer and used to grow fruits and vegetables in both the Bronx and Saint Matthews. Freeman departed his earthly body to be with his heavenly father on October 29,2022 at his residence. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years Fairybell, 4 children Juliet, Cynthia, Bernard JR., and Dennis. 8 Grandchildren James, Jaron, Juanita, Darcel, Shonique, Shakiah, Ceasia, and Derek Jr. Great Grandchildren Shavon, Richard, Jaron Jr. Jadein, Samiyah, and Jaylani. And four Great Great Grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. The family would like to Nieces Rosalyn, Michelle, Nephew John Albert, Cousins Handy and Dana for all their love and support of Freeman Please wear a mask during the visitation and service.

Tributes

Bernard F. Ellis

January 10, 1937 - October 29, 2022