Ernest Gordon Ellis

Ernest Gordon “Double E” Ellis, 88, passed away peacefully at his home in Hearne on Jan 19, 2026. He was surrounded by his devoted family.

Ernest was born in Midland, Texas on Feb 25, 1937, to Ernest Gordon Ellis Sr. and Pansy Nancy Nunley Ellis. His family moved often during his childhood due to his dad’s employment. Ernest attended school in Hearne, graduating from Hearne High School in 1955. Ernest spent his early adulthood working as a cowboy on area ranches. He and his horse Trigger also participated in area rodeo events.

On Dec 30, 1960, Ernest married the love of his life, Shirley Anne Deal. They celebrated their 65th anniversary at home with family members. Their union was blessed with two children, Christopher Gordon Ellis and wife Sandra, and Judy Anne Ellis Schlottman, 2 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and 10 step great-children and 2 step great great grandchildren. Survivors also include sister-in-law Pat Campbell and husband, Leslie, and brother-in-law Renne Deal and wife Paula.

Ernest was a member of the Army National Guard, retiring after 20 years of service. He spent 2 of his service years on active duty after being called up during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Ernest “Double E” was a motorcycle patrolman for Bryan Police Department for 12

years. It has been said he would have ticketed his own mother, if necessary! When the police department tried to put him on desk duty due to a prior back injury he decided to try his hand at other employment. Ernest was a tax assessor for Brazos County for 2 years. He finally found his niche when he began working for Quality Pontiac. Ernest began his career as a shop foreman, working diligently to advance to the finance department and ultimately moving into a management position.

Ernest spent his retirement years caring for his family, especially his ailing father-in-law, C.R. Deal Jr. Ernest was “Pops” go-fer, chauffeur, personal assistant, advocate and any other need he could fill.

Ernest will be sorely missed by all his family and friends who loved him so dearly.

Celebration of Life will be held at:

Five Points Baptist Church

9267 F.M. 2549

Bryan, Texas 77808

Hours 2pm-4pm

Jan 31, 2026