James Ely, Jr., known to most as “Junior,” passed on from this life in Morristown, TN on March 6, 2023 at the age of 61.

Junior was born on June 27, 1961 at Ireland Army Hospital in Fort Knox, KY to James Wayne Ely and Juanita Johnson Ely.

The oldest of four children, Junior grew up in Jonesville, VA where he enjoyed working with his Grandpap Ely on the family tobacco farm. His spare time was spent outdoors, hunting, fishing, and riding dirt bikes.

A graduate of Morristown West High School, Junior spent his adult life in Morristown, TN, where he worked as a long-haul truck driver.

Because long hours on the road can be lonely, Junior was often accompanied by man’s best friend; most memorably, his best friend “Lil Babe,” a chihuahua-mix affectionately known as “Lil.” Junior absolutely loved and doted on Lil, treating her more like a child than a dog. When she passed, he was devastated, marking her grave on his land with a beautiful, custom headstone. Junior later adopted another Chihuahua mix named “Hon,” and cared for a stray cat he called “Bug.”

Junior was a hard worker who took nothing for granted; he appreciated every home cooked meal and gift, no matter how small. He gave unselfishly when he could and gave what he had when he couldn’t. His graciousness and generosity of spirit will be missed!

Junior was preceded in death by his father, James; brother, John Ely; paternal grandparents, Gleaves “Man” Ely and Ruby Newman Ely; and maternal grandparents, Aaron Johnson and Eliza Wilder Johnson.

He is survived by his mother, Juanita Ely; sister, Jeanice Pratt (Mike); brother, Joseph Ely (Federica); nieces, Amy Ozment (Jamie) and Erin Smith (Elliott); and one great-niece, Peyton Jayne. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

Arrangements by Westside Chapel Funeral Home in Morristown.