Local businessman Woodrow "Woodie" Ellison age 86, of Clinton died Friday, October 14, 2011 at his home.

Woodie was born to Lonnie and Leola Ellison on July 4, 1925 in Lead Hill, Arkansas,and was the youngest of seven children. Woodie served his country during WWII in the South Pacific and received the purple heart as an anti tank gunner in the Army's 27th Regiment. After the surrender of Japan, Woodie served as guard and chauffer to Japanese Emperor Hirohito.

Woodie married Lavon Journagan on August 23rd, 1947 and the union was blessed with two children, Glenda and David.

Woodie purchased Golden Valley Tractor in 1980 and was active in the business until the time of his passing. Woodie always put everything he had into the business but never considered it work, as he was truly blessed to love what he did for a living.

He was a member of First Baptist Church, Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and VFW Post 1894.

Woodie is survived by his daughter, Glenda Weter and husband, Gene of Clinton, Missouri; three grandsons, Craig Compton of Kansas City, Missouri, Christopher Compton and wife, Kristie, Chad Compton and wife, Stephanie, all of Clinton; five great grandchildren, Jordyn Compton, Lane Compton, Nathan Compton, Railee Compton and Carissa Compton; two brothers-in-law, Leo Journagan and wife, Jean of Springfield, Missouri and Dorman Journagan and wife, Thelma of Harrison, Arkansas; one sister-in-law, Maxine Ellison of Lampe, Missouri; and longtime business associate and friend, Tony Compton of Clinton. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lavon and his son, David.

Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Clinton, Missouri Wednesday, October 19th at 2:00 p.m. Family will receive visitors one hour before the service.

All memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church building fund or the Clinton Christian Academy.

Arrangements entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home. Fond memories may be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.