Johnny Ray Ellison passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 5, 2023 at the age of 74. Johnny Ray was born on November 28, 1948 and spent his early years in Idaho and California until moving to Superior at the age of 10. In 1964 he went to a dance at the Magma Club and ended up meeting the love of his life, Loretta Irene Sapien. Together they created and fostered a beautiful family and community.

Johnny spent his life as a devoted husband, father, and friend. He worked at Magma Copper Company as a miner for 8 years. Then in 1986 he graduated from Arizona State University where he earned his degree in education. Johnny spent 33 years teaching, coaching, and mentoring. He had a passion for coaching and umpiring all sports. He was a true inspiration and mentor to all he interacted with. Every single person who had a conversation with him undoubtedly walked away laughing, he knew how to light up a room. Johnny lived life to the fullest, traveling the world with his wife and often with family and friends. As an enthusiast for culture and history, he took many trips to Europe and around the country. He cherished his family, and with his family he enjoyed playing cards, watching sporting events, singing, and laughing. He will be deeply missed but he lives on in each family member's sense of humor and love.

Johnny is preceded in death by his father SG Ellison, mother Florence Babb and sister in law Margaret Lammers. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Loretta Ellison and his 3 children Jessie Arroyos (Eddie), Ernest Ellison and SG Ellison II. He built a large and loving family that included 4 grandchildren Jacob Arroyos (Christin), Raymond Vera (Christina), Richard Ellison and Ernestasja Ellison. Great grandchildren Victoria, Aliyah, Eli, Enzo and Emilia. 6 nieces, 3 nephews, 7 great nieces and 6 great nephews. His brother in law Daniel Sapien (Nora), and sister in law Juanita Hunter.

In Leiu of Flowers the family request donations be made in Johnny's honor to Rebuild Superior at https://www.rebuildsuperioraz.org/donate

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