John Thad Ellington Jr's Obituary
John T. Ellington, Jr. of Lakeland passed away on March 21, 2023 at the age of 78. He was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on April 2, 1944 to John and Kathleen Ellington.
John was devoted to making his community better with his faith as a guiding light. He was a committed family man, avid outdoorsman, had a passion for engineering and was a fanatic for his Tennessee Volunteers.
He was a Professional Engineer for over 55 years and in the phosphate industry for over 40 years working for Mobil Chemical, Agrifos and Penn Pro in the Central Florida region. John always sought opportunities to lead and mentor. John graduated from Bearden High School in Knoxville, Tennessee and was Senior Class President. He was also on the track, football and basketball teams. He attended the University of Tennessee where he earned two undergraduate degrees in Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering and went on to receive a Masters in Engineering Administration and was licensed as a Professional Engineer. He achieved his undergraduate degrees while competing as a walk-on on the track and cross-country teams and working part time.
John was an avid fisherman, hunter, gardener and occasional golfer while supporting conservationist efforts to preserve wetlands and wildlife areas. Many days were spent from 4 am to sunset in the outdoors enjoying these activities. He was a good citizen, being involved in organizations such as: an Elder at First Presbyterian Church and occasional Sunday School teacher, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers Chairperson of Professional Development and honored as Engineer of the Year and Hero of the Industry, he was a fellow with the Society of Mining Engineers, and a volunteer in the Polk County School System as a track coach and official.
He loved and was involved in the lives of his children rarely missing their events, no matter how small. He delighted in spending time with his grandchildren and knowing about their world. He was a loving and devoted husband to Nancy and enjoyed their daily routine together.
John was preceded in death by his father (John T. Ellington), his mother (Kathleen Ellington), and his step mother (Ruth Ellington). John is survived by his wife, Nancy Campano Ellington, his daughter Dawn English (Joshua), his son, Thad Ellington (Danielle), his grandchildren: Benjamin English, Tre Ellington, Tess English and Luke Ellington, and his former spouse and mother of his children Carolyn Ellington. His stepsons: Andy Campano, David Campano (Emily), Robby Campano (Joanna), his brother Mike Ellington (Lisa) and step grandchildren: Charli, Koby, Isaac, Maggie, Micah, Addie, Wesley, Juniper and Oakland Campano.
Services for John will be held Friday, April 14 at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, Florida at 175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the following in John’s name:
American Society of Chemical Engineers
https://www.aiche.org/giving/get-involved/donate-online
The Tennessee Fund supporting Cross Country
https://am.ticketmaster.com/allvols/quick-donate/Njg1NA%3D%3D
First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, Florida
https://fpclakeland.org/online-giving/make-an-online-gift/
The Rock Community Church, Lakeland, Florida
https://therockworships.com/give/
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