Joseph R. Ellison, Jr. was born to the union of Joseph R. Ellison and Hazel (McCloud) Ellison May 23, 1952.  He departed this life peacefully December 19, 2020.  Joseph loved the Lord and served him faithfully by witnessing to those around him until his death.

Joseph accepted Christ at an early age, was baptized at The First Baptist Church of Walnut Hills  under the pastorate of Rev. B. E. Edmondson.  He was on the Junior Usher Board and sang in the youth choir there.

Joseph united in marriage with Deborah (Harris) May 27, 1972.  From that union two sons were born, Dr. Joseph  Ellison III and Joshua Ellison.

Joseph and Deborah and their sons became members of The Corinthian Baptist Church under Pastor Wesley V. Maxie, Sr.  Both Joseph and Deborah were very active at Corinthian. Along with Louise Napp, he began the first rap session for teenagers.  He had a passion for youth and could always be found working with children and teens.  To this end, he served as a Sunday School teacher for boys ages 13-16, Supervised Young David's (of the Ohio Baptist General Convention), served as the first director of Children's Church, and served as  a member of the Trustee Board  for 40 years.  When Joseph's health declined, he became a member of Harac Parech Ministries for the World in order to worship with his wife.

Joseph worked for over 40 years for many Banks repairing and installing ATM machines.  He loved that work.

Joseph was a Charter member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. (Ata Pho Chapter) at Western Kentucky University.  He later was president of the Alpha Phi Alpha chapter at the University of Cincinnati. Joseph was an avid reader, loved cowboy movies and his grandchildren.

Joseph leaves to mourn his wife, Deborah; his sons Dr. Joseph (Shannon) and Joshua; grandchildren, Joseph IV and Sydney; beloved cousin, Yvonne McCloud; niece, Tiffany Hopkins and a host of relatives and many friends.

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  1 Thes.4:13-14.