Broward Education Foundation mourns the loss of dear friend and devoted board member William “Bill” Ellis, who passed away on May 23. Bill joined the Board in 2008, serving as Secretary and Chair of several committees throughout his years of service. He was active in the community, especially in the construction industry, where he brought much support to Broward Education Foundation’s mission through his associations. He was also a graduate of Leadership Broward’s SEO program and participated in various charitable organizations.
A Celebration for the Life of Bill Ellis will be held Friday, May 29, 2015
Bill had a big heart and a passion for the success of children and that translated in many ways at the Foundation. He was a leader in setting up Broward Education Foundation’s “Tools for School Broward” school supply center. Many have said, “Without Bill Ellis, there would never have been a “Tools for Schools Broward” center.” This program has brought more than $6 million in school supplies to children in Title I Broward County Public Schools.
Bill also donated to the scholarship program- he was so upon meeting his first scholarship recipient, a homeless student, that he created the “Bill and Judy Ellis Scholarship” at Broward Education Foundation. He was devoted to mentoring students and found immense joy in enhancing their lives.
Bill and his employers are credited with being instrumental in the creation of Broward Education Foundation’s Alumni Walk of Fame at Broward County Schools K.C. Wright building. Without Bill Ellis, Pirtle Construction and DStephenson Construction, this dream of memorializing distinguished alumni would have gone unrealized.
Broward Education Foundation’s Board of Directors fervently wish that Bill will be remembered for his devotion to our students, our schools and our community.