Willis Hill Ellis

Willis Hill Ellis (Bill) passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on August 20, 2024, at Morningstar of Albuquerque. He was born on August 30, 1927, in Detroit, MI to Seth and Mildred Ellis. Willis grew up mostly in Anderson, IN.

He enlisted in the Navy as he turned 18 in 1945 and saw the last days of WWII as a Navy Hospital Corpsman. He attended Wabash College. He then studied at Harvard and Indiana University attaining his Law degree from IU. He began his career as a Law Professor in Colorado at Denver University, moving to Albuquerque in 1965 to finish his career at UNM.

He was married to Gwyn (Fair) Ellis for over 47 years. He was a devoted and loving husband, and they enjoyed many adventures together including Africa, Antarctica, Scotland, Wales and other trips to the British Isles, Europe, including river trips, Galapagos Islands, Alaska and more. They entertained and enjoyed their home away from home Lake Dillon Colorado.

Bill will be missed by his wife Gwyn, Son Rick and his wife Kelly Ellis, 2 granddaughters Shannon Hutt (married to Jake Hutt) and Jacqueline Biddison (married to Karl Biddison) and his stepson Kevin Saylors. Bill became a Great-Grandfather in July and enjoyed pics and stories about Bowen Biddison.

Bill is survived by his younger brother Dick and his wife Ria. His sister Maggie preceded him in death.

A small family service will be planned at a later date and Bill and Gwyn will ultimately rest together at the Veterans National Cemetery in Santa Fe.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Wabash College, 301 W Wabash Ave, Crawfordsville, IN 47933. Memories and stories may be shared at: willis.ellis.memories@gmail.com