William "Bill" Floyd Ellis

William F. (Bill) Ellis, aged 68, passed away May 31, 2022 at Mercy House, after a hard fought battle with cancer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mirna L and Floyd W Ellis and an older brother, John E Ellis.  Left to carry on his memory are his siblings:  Elizabeth M Cernek (Pennsylvania), Barbara J Troja (Las Vegas), Jack K Ellis (Binghamton), Charles D Ellis (Utah) and Deborah A Ellis (Georgia).  Jack was his roommate and primary caregiver during the entirety of his illness.  His former sister-in-law, Theresa, was always there to lend a hand without ever being asked.  Bill was also married to Elizabeth (BJ) Stevens for over 16 years.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He worked various jobs throughout his life, including his own handyman business for many years.  Bill retired from Binghamton University after working there for 19 years.

Bill was born and raised in Binghamton, NY, and lived most of his life there.  He also lived in Phoenix, AZ, for over 5 years, but returned to Binghamton to re-connect with friends and family.  It was in Phoenix that he acquired his first white German Shepherd, Snow.  They had a bond that could not be severed by space or time.  When he became ill 6 years ago, he decided that he needed another Snow to help him battle this disease and provide the best reason to get well.  She was named Snow White and was by his side until it was no longer feasible.

Bill lived a simple life.  While he enjoyed having a good time, he got the most joy out of life when he could bring joy to others, especially children and animals.  For those of you who knew him well, the answer is yes, he did smoke pot for a month one night.

A heartfelt thank you to Hospice and the Mercy House for helping him stay comfortably numb when it was necessary.

Bill’s cremation will be handled by Hopler & Eschbach Funeral Home.  There will not be a memorial service.  We are asking instead that you do something kind for a child or animal today to honor him.

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