Laurie Howard Ellis, Jr.

Laurie Howard Ellis, Jr. passed peacefully at home, surrounded by friends and family, on

October 18, 2023, at age 91. He is survived by his beloved spouse of 31 years, Pedro Balderas,

and his cousins Marjorie Dunn, and Bradford Ellis.

Howard was born February 7, 1932, in Greenville, NC, to Laurie Howard Ellis Sr., and Reid Ellis.

He attended Winterville and Maury High Schools. He also pursued a degree in geography at

East Carolina University.

Howard loved geography, which he naturally learned on his own starting in early childhood,

writing to travel information agencies throughout the world for tourist brochures, and

collecting stamps.

He was an avid Harley Davidson rider in his early youth, exploring mostly the eastern part of the

USA. He had a natural curiosity to know the world, as well as other cultures, and languages. His

first out-of-state trips were with his parents and, as a teenager, with his beloved Aunt Lottie, of

whom he spoke dearly all his life. Because of his work with the airlines, he was able to explore

the world – on his own, with friends and family.

Howard’s passions included travel, making new friends, cooking, discovering new things, and

playing piano, which he started learning at age 6. But he especially loved nurturing those he

met and encouraging them to pursue their dreams and goals in life. Through his direct help,

advice, and generosity, he touched and positively impacted many lives.

Howard made a lot of friends throughout the world. He particularly loved Mexico and its

people. He became fluent in Spanish by studying as an adult at San Diego City College, as well

as in language schools in Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico. After 23 years working at

Western/Delta Airlines, he retired in 1987, and moved to Mexico, where he eventually met the

love of his life, and with whom he continued traveling and enjoying life. Together they had a

long, happy marriage and lived in many places, including his beloved NYC, Philadelphia, and

finally, San Diego.

He lived a simple life, with minimal material possessions. He valued love and friendship the

most, and he was a loyal friend who kept in regular contact with all the friends he made

throughout his lifetime.

Howard loved to stay active by exercising daily, including riding bicycle, lifting weights and

walking. Toward his later years, he lost his eyesight due to glaucoma, but he never lost his zest

to enjoy each and every day to its fullest, and to help people.

A private celebration of his life will be held on December 3, 2023, at 11 AM at his last residence,

with close friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The San Diego Center for the Blind, in his memory.

5922 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego CA 92115

619-583-1542 X113

www.sdcb.org