Ellis James Lofton, Sr.

Ellis James Lofton, Sr., 76, of Chicago, died peacefully Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

His life began April 19, 1949, in Selma, Alabama, the third of four children born to Ellis James Lofton and Bernice Lofton White Crawford.

Ellis was hardworking and his passion in life was woodworking and welding. He loved gardening; both vegetables and flowers, as well as cooking. Ellis was an artist, not only with his wood carving, but also with sketching, painting, and jewelry. He was handy around the house and was always busy with projects. Ellis proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He always looked forward to his daddy-daughter shopping dates with his daughter, Kathy, and loved her potato salad. His favorite holiday was Thanksgiving, for the family and great food. Ellis made time for family and enjoyed spending time with them. His best surprise was having his children and grandchildren got together and spent Father’s Day with him.

Ellis will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by four daughters, Kathy Lofton of St. Joseph, Candiss (Johnny) Pierce of St. Peter, Minnesota, JoAnn (Marcus) Echols of St. Peter, Minnesota, Amelia Fitch of Chicago; eight sons, Ellis Lofton, Jr. of St. Joseph, Joseph Lofton of Chicago, Brian (Chameika) Lofton, Gary (Connie) Lofton, Jermaine Lofton, Michael Lofton, Bruce Lofton, Westley Lofton, all of St. Peter, Minnesota, over forty grandchildren; three great grandchildren; brothers, William Paul Lofton of Vandalia; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joann Hall; brother, Charles Lofton; and son, George Lofton.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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