Ellison, James Richter

James Richter Ellison of Blacksburg, Va., was born on March 1, 1928, in Silsbee, Texas, to Oliver Perkins Ellison and Opal McDaniel Ellison. He died peacefully at his daughter’s home on Thursday, June 14, 2018, in Roanoke, Va.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, he was a chemical engineer in the petroleum industry who transitioned to computer engineering when the first computers appeared in oil refineries. Over the years Rick was an avid gardener, amateur photographer, and Civil War reenactor who collected period medical instruments and manuals, now donated to Virginia Tech. He was also an active member of Blacksburg United Methodist Church.

Rick is survived by his spouse of 66 years, Priscilla Ann Baum Ellison; and their two children, James Ellison of Blacksburg, and Katherine Ellison Waltz (Philip) of Roanoke. He is also survived by grandchildren, James Robin Waltz and Hannah Margaret Waltz; great-grandson, Benjamin Puente; and brother O.P. Ellison Jr. of Renton, Wash., and his family.

A Memorial Service is planned for Friday, June 29, 2018, at 11:30 a.m. at Blacksburg United Methodist Church. Full obituary at www.oakeys.com.