Ray Jennings Ellen, born July 5, 1929, in Three Creeks, Arkansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Ray was the son of Anna Mae Jennings Ellen and James Walker Ellen, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, James “Jim” Aubrey Ellen and Joe Robert Ellen; his first wife, Marilyn N. Ellen; his son, Christopher S. Ellen; and his daughter-in-law, Carol Rose Ogden Ellen.
A 1947 graduate of El Dorado High School, Ray attended trade school in California to become an electrician before returning to El Dorado, Arkansas. There, he joined his brothers in the family business, Ellen Brothers Electric. The brothers expanded into the electrical wholesale industry through the establishment of E&B Electric. Ray later founded Fan & Fire, a wholesale company specializing in ceiling fans and fireplaces. An entrepreneur throughout his life, he also owned Ellen Properties, through which he refurbished and financed homes, helping numerous families in the El Dorado area. During the 1970s and 1980s, Ray rejuvenated the 400 block of South Washington Street through his purchase and redevelopment of an old building and surrounding property, helping breathe new life into Hamburger Row.
Ray embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing, and traveling, and was always eager to spend time with family and friends. He also had a passion for community theater, participating in local productions and serving as President of the El Dorado Little Theatre Board. His energy, warmth, and love of people made him a friend to many and a valued member of the community.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Ann Waldrup Ellen; his children, Scott N. Ellen of El Dorado, Arkansas, and Nancy Cathey and husband Joseph Cathey of Godley, Texas; and Ann's children, Ken Waldrup of El Paso, Texas; Beth Waldrup of Boulder, Colorado; and David Waldrup and wife Jodi of Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is also survived by grandchildren Lillian Ellen, Nathaniel "Nate" Ellen and wife Katy, Natalie Cathey, Andrew Cathey, Wells Harrell and wife Donya, Elizabeth Harrell and husband Dan, Lauren Harrell and husband Mike, Kyle Waldrup and wife Mary, Kyla Freeman and husband Kelvin, Kurt Waldrup and wife Mai, and Matthew Waldrup wife Olivia, along with 12 cherished great-grandchildren.
Ray will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, devotion to family, generosity, sense of adventure, and commitment to his community. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the businesses he built, and the many lives he touched throughout the El Dorado area.
