Roger Lincoln Ellzey

Roger Lincoln “Linc” Ellzey, 62, a lifelong native of Lake City, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on May 16, 2026, leaving behind a family and community who loved him deeply. While his passing was sudden, the memories, laughter, and stories he created throughout his life will continue to live on through those who knew him best. He lived life in a way that was unmistakably his own. He was known for his humor, his huge heart, and the kind of presence people remember long after they are gone. Whether through a joke, a story, or simply showing up for those he cared about, Linc left an impression on many.

Linc dedicated many years of his life to working for the Department of Corrections, earning respect through his commitment, work ethic, and relationships built along the way. His loyalty and dedication extended far beyond his career and into every part of his life. Outside of work, some of Linc’s greatest joys were found in simple living: spending time outdoors, caring for his cows, and cheering on Florida State football. Those who knew him understood these weren’t just hobbies; they were pieces of who he was.

Linc was preceded in death by his father, Roger Byron Ellzey; his brother, Byron Dale Ellzey; his maternal grandparents, Eva and Gussie Jones; his paternal grandparents, Thomas and Sylvia Ellzey; his aunts and uncles, Bernice Jones Morton, John C. Jones, Martelle Jones Pettus, Grace Jones Roberts, Bill Jones, Daisy Mae Jones, and Helen Yarborough (Ellzey); his beloved cousin, Gussie Lawrence “Gus” Jones; and many other cherished cousins and family members.

He is survived by his beloved partner, Julia “Julie” Tilton; his mother, Mary Pearl Ellzey (Jones); his son, Roger; his daughter, Jessica, and her husband, André Shook; his beloved granddaughter, Maliha; his sister, Mary Ann Thompson and her husband, Patrick “Pat” Thompson, along with their sons, Kyle and Kavan; his brother, Jason Ellzey; his aunt, Sharon Feagle (Ellzey); Patricia and Dustin Parrott and their children, Alexander, Liam, and Parker, whom he loved as family; Julie’s daughter, Ashley, and her children, Kenley and Laura, who also held a special place in his heart; extended family, including many cherished cousins; dear friends; and many whose lives were touched by knowing him.

As a father, pieces of Linc remain in the children he raised. As a grandfather and guiding presence, his love and legacy continue through the younger generations who knew him. As a son, brother, uncle, partner, and friend, his memory will live on in familiar stories, shared laughter, and moments that unexpectedly bring him to mind. Linc’s story does not end here. It lives on in every quiet moment on the farm, every memory shared among family, and in the hearts of those who cherished him. Though grief comes with loss, gratitude comes with love. We are grateful for the years shared, the memories made, and the life he lived. We will continue looking for the signs, telling the stories, and holding tightly to the love that remains. In honor of Linc, hold your loved ones a little closer.

Services honoring the life of Roger Lincoln “Linc” Ellzey will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. A viewing will take place from 2:00–3:00 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 3:00 PM at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 3596 South Highway 441, Lake City, Florida. Following the service, burial will take place at Bethel Methodist Church.

Family and friends are welcome to join in remembering and celebrating his life.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.