BIOGRAPHY

Sally Ellis was born in Owen County, Kentucky, USA, on 14 March 1907, to parents Elonzo E. True (1874–1942) and Olive “Ollie” Bates (1879–1963). She had siblings Hallie, Edna, and Earl, who died in their youth, as well as adult brothers and sisters: William (1898–1967), John (1900–1959), Marshall (1902–1973), Rodger (1915–1998), Alois (1913–1992), Florence (1911–2001), and Edith. Growing up on a farm, she traveled to school and church by riding her pony.

In 1927, she married Earl G. Ellis (1905–1978) and moved to Chillicothe with her husband and infant son, Jack, in 1934. She considered Chillicothe a warm, welcoming community that embraced her family, where she made many lifelong friends. She was active in her church, The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), for over 70 years, serving as both a parishioner and deaconess. She held a deep affection for her ministers and congregation.

A devoted mother and homemaker, she was a beloved and respected figure in her neighborhood. Even as a centenarian, she remained active in her community and church, living independently in her home until her 108th year. In her later years, she found joy in weekly luncheons with her son and daughter-in-law, Jack and Sue, or with friends, often at Olive Garden, where she became somewhat of a local celebrity due to her youthful appearance and vitality.

She attributed her longevity to healthy living: “It’s just a clean lifestyle, I never drank, never smoked, or did anything like that. I’m just a simple country girl.”

Ellis passed away in Chillicothe, Ohio, on 15 February 2018, at the age of 110 years, 338 days. She was survived by her son, Jack, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

RECOGNITION

Her age has not been validated.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Sally Ellis: 109 years young” – Chillicothe Gazette, 14 March 2016

* “110th birthday party for Ross County’s oldest resident” – ABC 6, 14 March 2017

* Sally Ellis Obituary – Chillicothe Gazette, 17 February 2018

* Sally Mae True Ellis – Find A Grave

GALLERY