JOHN DAVID ELLIS.

      For the encouragement of struggling young must depend upon their own resources, I wish to say a few things about the life of John David Ellis, who died of apoplexy at his home in Bellevue, Kentucky, November 30, 1901. Bro. Ellis was born on a farm in Campbell county, Kentucky, December 19, 1855. He was the youngest of six children. He was a man of great determination and perseverance. He did not allow the fact that he was on a farm, and hence deprived of many advantages, to hinder him. Early in life he developed a love of study, and alone mastered stenography and the higher branches of mathematics and chemistry, He also became proficient in music which acomplishment was a great pleasure to him throughout his life.

      In early manhood he entered Clearmont Academy, then in the height of its usefulness, to further pursue his studies. There he led in his classes, and became especially proficient in civil engineering. Returning home at the end of the school year, he was elected County Surveyor, which position he held through two terms, eight years. During these years he continued his literary pursuits, preparing for greater usefulness.

      He was fond of the association of persons whose intelligence and character were helpful to himself, and formed many friendships of such persons that were lasting. He was of a quiet disposition, never frivolous, yet always genial and friendly, a favorite with his acquaintances. At the age of twenty-seven he left home for the law school of Louisville, Kentucky, from which he was graduated in one year, having by hard work and close application, completed the course required.

      He united with the Church of Christ in California, Kentucky, in 1884. This step was taken after a careful investigation of the evidences of Christianity; the manner in which he took this important step was characteristic of him. After the communion service one Lord's day, when there was no preaching, when an elder of the congregation, John C. DeMoss, had presided, in answer to in invitation that was given, he went forward and made the good confession. The firmness of his manner, the expression of his countenance, were remembered by many who were present, for years after. He frequently, in after life, referred to the eloquent talk and logical argument of the godly man, John C. DeMoss, [434] that had much to do with his taking this important step.

      Bro. Ellis settled in Newport, Kentucky, to practice law. In 1885 he was united in marriage to Miss Bessie E. DeMoss. In 1889 they established their home in Bellevue, Kentucky, where he died. When they first entered their new home they sang the doxology, and asked God's blessing upon themselves and their home.

      Bro. Ellis served this city in several capacities. He was City Engineer, president of the Council, City Judge, member of the School Board, and one of the Board of Examiners, all of which were acceptably filled. He is, however, best known for his work for the Master. He served the congregation of Bellevue as an elder. At the time of his death he was an elder of the Central church of Newport, Kentucky. His advice and counsel will be greatly missed for he was a safe man, careful and deliberate. For several years he was state president of the Endeavor Union, and a valuable member of the Executive Committee of that organization. He was defeated for County Judge of Campbell county by the saloon power, because they regarded the C. E. as an anti-saloon organization. When asked beforehand by representatives of the saloon what his policy would be if elected, he said, "To enforce all of the laws upon the statute-books without fear or favor." In speaking of his defeat afterward, he said, "I would rather be defeated by such principles being prominent in my life, than to be elected otherwise."

      Bro. Ellis' example as a Christian gentleman was of the best. His home life was ideal. We shall all miss his wise counsel and influence for every good thing. May God bless his wife and son, who are left to us.

[COC 434-435]