Melanie Penny Ellis
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Published in June 2025
Melanie Penny Ellis, beloved wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, niece and friend lost her battle with ALS on Monday June 2, 2025, at the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Center in Wilmington, NC. Born on September 14, 1961, in High Point, NC, Melanie brought a sense of comfort, kindness and joy to all who knew her. She will forever be remembered by her bright smile that would light up any room, her beautiful green eyes, and her compassionate nature.
Melanie was a graduate of John T Hoggard High School, class of 1979. She worked at Corning for 12 years prior to attending Cape Fear Community College and obtaining her degree in Information Technology. She completed a 21-year career at PPD (Thermo-Fisher Scientific) working as a Senior Tech in the Access Management Group.
Melanie was preceded in death by her father, Jimmy Penny and stepfather, Bill Parker. Melanie is survived by her mother, Edith Penny Parker; her sister, Laura Penny Courtney; her husband of 26 years, Thomas “Pete” Ellis, and her sons Douglas “Trey” McLean and Christopher McLean (Taylor). Melanie also had the privilege of raising grandson Bradley McLean as her son. Melanie was blessed with five grandchildren: Bradley, Olivia, Haley, Harper, and CJ, along with one great-grandson, Colson.
Melanie’s sons were her pride and joy. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Melanie was a gifted crafter and enjoyed cooking and canning. Travel was a love of hers-especially when she was joined by her mom who was also her best friend. Family get togethers were always a fun time for all.
Melanie wanted to send a special thank you to her bestie, Alice Delacruz, and special friend Mary Fahey.
The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00pm, Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Northside Baptist Church, 2501 N College Road, Wilmington, NC with a memorial service to follow at 2:00 pm.
Flowers are welcome and memorials may be directed to Compassionate Care ALS (ccals.org).
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation is assisting the Ellis family. Online condolences may be made by visiting wilmingtoncares.com.