Ottis C. Ellerbee

In loving memory of Ottis Carter Ellerbee, 93, of Marianna, FL born on October 17, 1930, in Wausau, FL to Ledger and Pansy Jones Carter. Ottis was called home to be with the Lord on August 27, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at Jackson Hospital.

Ottis was a devoted wife to John G. Ellerbee, and a loving and nurturing mother to John and Ann. She was a cherished grandmother to four grandchildren, and a beloved great-grandmother to 14 great-grandchildren. Affectionately known as “granny” to many, Ottis’s life was a testament to love, care, and service to others.

As the oldest girl and the fourth child among ten siblings, Ottis played a maternal role in her family, nurturing and caring for her brothers and sisters. Her southern-style cooking brought joy and comfort to countless friends and family members over the years, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Ottis’s passion for taking care of people extended beyond her family, as she ran a small daycare from her home, earning the title of “granny” from all the children she cared for. Her love for fishing, Alabama football, and nurturing children reflected in her kind and generous spirit.

A faithful member of Salem Free Will Baptist Church for over 60 years, Ottis’s devotion to the Lord was evident in her selfless service to others. Her life exemplified the commandment to love one another, and her legacy of compassion and kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May Ottis Ellerbee’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire acts of love and service in the hearts of those who knew her.

Ottis was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John G. Ellerbee; siblings Lynn Carter, Ambus Carter, Junior Carter, Gene Carter, Cary Carter, Betsy Finch, and Judy Reno.

Survivors include her children, John L. Ellerbee (Haley) of Altha, FL, Ann Faircloth of Cottondale, FL; grandchildren, Tyler Ellerbee (Heather) of Grand Ridge, FL, Ethan Ellerbee (Lindsay) of Pensacola, FL, Janna Edwards (Donn) of Grand Ridge, FL, Meghan Deese (Carl) of Cottondale, FL; great-grandchildren, Carson Stafford, Cheston Stafford, Callen Ellerbee, Olivia Ellerbee, Vivian Ellerbee, Bennett Edwards, Aris Edwards, Carolina Edwards, Matthias Edwards, Eli Edwards, Evie Grace Edwards, Carter Deese, Ledger Carston Deese, and Clayton Deese; siblings, Gertrude Nichols of Glennville, GA, and Bobbie Cook of Wausau, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Marianna Health and Rehab Center, Jackson Hospital, Dr. Steven Spence, Dr. Anna Brunner, and Dr. Wayde Retherford. Ottis “granny” Ellerbee will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, August 30, 2024, at Salem Free Will Baptist Church with Pastor Donnie Hussey officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. 

The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 at James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel.