Red Cross honors Ellis

The Lenoir County chapter of the American Red Cross presented Kinston-Lenoir County Recreation Director Bill Ellis with its annual "Kinstonian of the Year" award Friday.

Ellis attended the ceremony, held at the Kinston Country Club, with his wife Judy.

"One of the best things I did in Kinston was hiring Judy Ellis and then hiring Bill Ellis . . . and just sat back and watched them do their thing," Former Recreation Director Jimmy Tyer said. "They are a great couple."

Tyer, along with John Marston and Adrian King, made good-natured jokes about Ellis and also spoke heartfelt words of gratitude.

"I've appreciated Bill Ellis since the day I set foot in Kinston," King said.

Marston said of Ellis: "Bill can absolutely get it done and he is my hero. Thank you Bill Ellis."

Last year's recipient, County Commissioner Earl Harper, presented the award to Ellis.

"I tell you what, if there's anybody who can stretch a dollar it's Bill Ellis," Harper said.

Ellis thanked the Red Cross for the award, and recognized everyone in the room who has helped him, including his recreation staff.

"Kinston and Lenoir County have taken us in and gave us a wonderful place to raise a family," he said. "I've gotten a tremendous amount out of Kinston, much more than Kinston has gotten out of me."

David Anderson can be reached at (252) 559-1077 or danderson@freedomenc.com.