Ellis Jack Brown, age 79, of Brownwood passed away Friday, June 13, 2014 at his residence.

Ellis was born January 9, 1935 to Lattie and Alma (Sikes) Brown in Richland Springs, Texas. Working alongside his father at Rainey’s Pecan Nursery, Ellis cultivated his skill for working with and love of pecans. He moved to Brownwood to begin working for the USDA Pecan Field Station at Brownwood, Texas in 1964, where he worked for many years. During this time he was instrumental in cross pollination and grafting numerous pecan varieties. His research gave him the chance to connect with like minded people at the Texas Pecan Growers Association.

Even more than his dedication to pecans, he was a consistent figure of his church. Ellis was a Deacon, long time member of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church, and loved singing in the church choirs.

He is survived by his loving wife, Novis (Johnson) Brown of Brownwood; three sons, Douglas Brown and wife Jennifer both formerly of Brownwood, David L. Brown and wife Sandi of Brownwood, and Robert Ellis Brown of Early; two granddaughters, Shalom and Zoe Brown; 2 sisters, Yvonne Mathews and husband R. D. of Brownwood, Carolyn Sue Ware and husband Leroy of Brownwood; and a brother, Thomas Brown and wife Bobbie of Hasse. Ellis is also survived and cherished by his nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives, and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, June 17, 2014 at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church with Bro. Tim Skaggs officiating; interment will follow at Indian Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 P.M. Monday evening at Blaylock Funeral Home.  In lieu of Flowers the family requests memorial contributions to be made to Coggin Avenue Baptist Church.

Online condolences are welcomed at www.blaylockfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Blaylock Funeral Home.