Woodrow Wilson Ellison

Woodrow Wilson Ellison, a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, peacefully passed away at his home on June 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 5, 1935, in the heart of Lakeland, Florida, Woodrow lived a life that was as colorful and rich as the state he called home. Woodrow, affectionately known to his family as "Big Daddy," was a true embodiment of the Florida Cracker spirit. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Virginia, and his beloved son, Charles, whose memories he held close throughout his life. A proud veteran, Woodrow served with honor in the National Guard, where he learned values of discipline and camaraderie that he carried into his professional life. His career began at Lakeland Mercury, where he honed his skills in the automotive industry. This path led him to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he realized his dream of owning and operating his own automotive body shop. Later, he brought his expertise and passion to Lake Wales, Florida, founding Ellison RBM, a business that became both a professional success and a beacon of community service. Woodrow's legacy is lovingly carried on by his surviving children: Candy (Jay) Halferty, Mark (Charla) Ellison, Suzette (Gilbert) Lozano, and Kevin Dalton. He also leaves behind his brother, Leonard Ellison, whose bond with Woodrow was a testament to enduring family ties. Among his greatest joys were his 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness. The Ellison family fondly remembers Woodrow with these heartfelt words: "A true Florida Cracker whose work on earth is done; now resting in the shade of the old oak hammock. His legacy of wisdom, warmth, and shared tales creates a harmony resonating through the generations. May the waters be calm and the lines be tight wherever you are, Big Daddy. We miss you beyond measure. Heaven gained a true Florida original. We will miss those porch talks and sunny days on the water. He sowed seeds of love, lived life at his own coastal pace, and cast a legacy that will forever ripple through our family. The most important thing of all is that the love we had in our family was powerful enough to show without words right up until his last days with us." Woodrow's life was a mosaic of love, adventure, and resilience, painted with the colors of laughter and stories shared on sunlit porches. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and unite his family, ensuring that his spirit remains ever-present in their lives. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the gentle breezes and tranquil waters of his cherished Florida.