Hubert- Owen Darrell Ellison, Sr., 89, passed away at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, on Friday, January 16, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born October 2, 1936, in Fireco, WV, the son of the late Owen Lewis and Hettie Mullens Ellison.

Owen faithfully served his country in the United States Marine Corps and retired at the rank of Gunnery Sergeant after twenty years. He retired in 1974 with his last assigned post at Camp Lejeune, NC.

Owen enjoyed woodworking, cabinetry, and small engine repair. He was very active in his community at Hickory Bluff and held various offices in the HOA over the last several years. He was a community type handyman and was always willing to use his skill set to help. His door was always open to help his neighbors and friends and even mentored some with his woodworking skills and his small engine repair knowledge.

He was a golfer and an avid runner in his younger days having run several marathons including the Boston and Marine Corps Marathons.

He is survived by his children: Cathy Fisher of Hubert, NC, Brenda Grahn of Clayton, NC, Darrell Ellison and wife Lisa of Ballard, WV, and Pam Nicosia of Hubert, NC; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren; and his special rescue cat, Sugar. He is also survived by his brothers: Johnny Ellison, Chris Ellison, Michael Ellison and William Ellison.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Shirley J. Ellison; and his siblings: Jackie Ellison, Ronnie Ellison, Cecil Ellison, Lewis Ellison, Anna Louise Jakubus, Bobby Ellison, Margie Stanley, and twin sisters, Gay Ellison and Gail Beesaw.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 12:30 PM at Jones Funeral Home Chapel in Swansboro. Inurnment will follow the service at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the DAV at dav.org or to the Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarriorproject.org