Devoted Husband, Father, PawPaw, Brother, and Friend
Joseph “Joe” Dee Ellison, 66, of Beaumont, Texas, passed away on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the 409 Event Center, 1530 FM 3513, Lumberton, TX 77657.
Born on October 3, 1958, in Beaumont, Joe was the son of Joseph Lafayette Ellison Jr. and Dorothy Ruth Laminack. A proud South Park High School Greenie, Class of 1977, Joe was known by many nicknames—“Joe,” “Jr,” and “Skipper”—each reflecting a different facet of his warm, joyful, and easygoing personality.
Joe was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Vicki, with whom he shared 17 wonderful years. He was a proud and loving father and PawPaw—not only to his own children and grandchildren but to countless others who were fortunate enough to feel his warmth and guidance. He believed deeply in showing up: for birthdays, graduations, road trips, or even just lunch on a Tuesday. He was present, because love for Joe was shown through consistency, laughter, and action. He would come whenever called—even if it meant pulling your truck out of a ditch in the middle of the night. That’s just who he was.
A dedicated machinist for over 40 years, Joe took great pride in his work before retiring—something he proudly reminded everyone of at every opportunity. He enjoyed mowing his lawn and proudly awarded himself, “Outstanding in his field”. He fully embraced life, spending time with family, restoring old cars, visiting car shows, riding rollercoasters, and making unforgettable memories at Disney. His sense of humor was legendary, and he never missed a chance to crack a corny joke or offer up his signature line after a stumble: “Tuck and roll!”—a phrase that came to symbolize his philosophy of laughing through life’s bumps and always getting back up with grace.
To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “PawPaw,” a title he wore with joy and honor. He made every child feel special, whether they shared his name or simply shared in his love. He had a special gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued. With every road trip, shared meal, bear hug, or witty one-liner, Joe offered a steady presence and a reminder that love is best shown, not just spoken.
Joe had a vibrant, welcoming spirit. He never met a stranger and left lasting impressions everywhere he went. He loved deeply and laughed loudly, and his presence lit up every room. His memories of traveling with his parents—especially their trips to Vegas—were dear to him, and he often shared stories of his childhood and adventures with infectious enthusiasm.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Vicki Ellison; children, Elizabeth Depwe, Jacob Depwe, Brittany Templeton and husband Corey, Drew Hill and wife Alexis, and Jason McGhen; grandchildren, Katelyn, Riley, JoDee, Kevin, Jackson, Charlotte, Leo, Melody, Lochlan, and Richard; brothers, Cecil Ellison, Tommy Ellison and wife Debbie, and Jimmy Ellison and wife Kathy; his cherished dogs, Molly, Panda, and Tinkerbell; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends who all considered him family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Joseph Ellison Jr.
Joe’s absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, but his legacy of laughter, strength, and love will continue to shine through the stories we share, the lives he touched, and the way we love one another—just like he taught us.
If there is such a thing as Hot Rod Heaven, you can bet Joe is there now—kicking back, swapping stories, and reminding us all to “tuck and roll.”
Cremation is under the direction of Simple Tributes in Orange, Texas.
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