Clarence "Dick" Wilford Ellington

Clarence Wilford Ellington, affectionately known as "Dick," passed away on December 12, 2024, at Pioneer Trace Nursing Home in Flemingsburg, Kentucky, following an extended illness. Born October 14, 1928, in Morehead, Kentucky, Dick led a life enriched with diverse experiences and cherished memories that he shared with his loved ones.

A dedicated family man, Dick is survived by his son, Freddy Ellington and his wife Barbie of Lexington, Kentucky; his son, John Ellington of Edenton, North Carolina; his daughter, Patti Lowe and her husband Greg of Corryton, Tennessee; his daughter, Angie Robinson and her husband Ernie of Morehead, Kentucky; and his daughter, Willa Bevins and her husband Chris of Winchester, Kentucky. He took immense pride in his family, including his six grandchildren, Mark (Tara) Lowe, Courtney (Casey Placek) Ellington, Brad Robinson, Deandra (Roger Ruark) Robinson, Charlie Marshburn, and Matthew Verzwyvelt. Dick was also a beloved great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren: Quentin Placek, Parker Ruark, Sierra Lowe, Brendan Marshburn, and Harper Marshburn. He is further survived by his sisters, Norma Hodges and Pauline Brown of Morehead, Kentucky, as well as several nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

Dick's professional life was marked by his work as a retired heavy equipment operator and truck driver. He was known not just for his skill in his work, but also for the stories he would share, which reflected his personality as a great storyteller. In his leisure time, Dick pursued various hobbies that included collecting guns, hunting, and a passion for old cars, trucks, motorcycles, and antiques—especially cherished victrolas and clocks.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernadine "Dena" Ellington, parents, Espy Ellington and Ina Cox Ellington, his brother Kenneth L. Ellington, and his daughter-in-law Billie Ellington. Their memories remain a significant part of his legacy.

Visitation for Clarence Wilford "Dick" Ellington will take place on Monday, December 16, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Michael R Gray Funeral Home in Morehead, Kentucky. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM with Rev. Mark Caldwell and Rev. Harley Sexton, Jr. officiating.

Burial will follow in the Ellington Cemetery on Highway 1722.

Pall bearers will be Greg Lowe, Mark Lowe, Ernie Robinson, Terry Brown, Leroy Hodges and Jamie Brown.

Contributions in memory of Clarence Wilford "Dick" Ellington may be made to the Sharkey Baptist Church.

Clarence Wilford Ellington will be remembered for his rich storytelling, his remarkable marksmanship, and the love he shared with family and friends throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth and character that continues to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

The Michael R. Gray Funeral Home, 808 Old Flemingsburg Road in Morehead is caring for all arrangements for Clarence Wilford "Dick" Ellington and his family.