Joanne Ruth Ellis

Joanne Ruth Ellis, 70, of Fayetteville died unexpectedly Friday, Oct. 24, 2014. She was born Nov. 11, 1943, in West Hartford, Conn., and was the adopted daughter of Ruth and Byron Ellis. She devoted her life to faith-based nursing, where she was able to share her gift of love and prayerful healing with those in need. She retired to the Fayetteville area where she became an active member of the Christian Life Cathedral Church. Joanne's Christian faith and all those who provided her comfort and support over the years gave her the strength and conviction to face the many challenges in her life. Ms. Ellis was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, B. Robert Ellis. Survivors include niece, Margaret (Peggy) R. Ellis of Astoria (Queens), N.Y.; nephew, Scott C. Ellis and wife, Laurie, and their sons, Colby and Connor, of Kennebunk, Maine. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Katherine's Place at Wedington, 4405 W. Persimmon St., Fayetteville, Joanne's home for the last 18 months. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Christian Life Cathedral Church, 1285 Millsap Road, Fayetteville, AR 72703. Nelson-Berna Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements. To sign the online guest book, please visit www.nelsonberna.com.