Frederick Michael Ellard, of Athens, Alabama, passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 73. Mr. Ellard was born in Cullman County, Alabama, to the late Fred and Lois Graves Ellard.
At a young age, Mike joined Holly Pond First Baptist Church. Mr. Ellard was a current member of Friendship Church in Athens.
Mike was a graduate of Holly Pond High School. He then served our nation honorably in the United States Navy. Mr. Ellard obtained his college degree, along with several certificates, in his field of study. His knowledge and skill led him to work for many years in a management position within the computer science field.
Mr. Ellard was a man with many talents and interests. He was a world traveler, blogger, and skilled photographer. He also enjoyed woodworking, computers, and a good book. Mr. Ellard listened to music from every genre, and among his favorite music you will find a multitude of artists and styles. A true outdoors man, Mike loved being on the water, where he enjoyed fishing and sailing, as well as camping and exploring nature. Mike was a Boy Scout as a youngster, and he became a leader and mentor for young men as he led the Scouts when his son was young.
Mr. Ellard is preceded in death by his parents and daughters, Donna Ellard and Kristy Lowery.
Those left to cherish Mike’s memory includes his wife, Sandra Ellard; children, Michael John Melonas and Jennifer Marie Ellard; siblings, Carolyn Ellard Bryan (Bartee), Patsy Ellard Brown (Roger), Anthony Ellard (Mary), Tina Ellard Southerland (David); grandchildren, Alec Valera, Gabriel Valera, Zadie Melonas, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Melonas; a host of nieces and nephews; and many dear friends and co-workers.
Friends are invited to join the Ellard family for a time of visitation on Monday, May 5, 2025, beginning at 1 p.m. Funeral services will immediately follow visitation, beginning at 3 p.m., with Bruce Ellard officiating. All services will be held in the Holly Pond Funeral Home Chapel. Mr. Ellard will receive military honors as he is laid to rest in Holly Pond Cemetery where Jerry Parker, Mike Patterson, Chris Bryan, Bartee Bryan, Roger Brown, and David Southerland will serve as pallbearers alongside honorary pallbearers, Wes Ellard, Will Ellard, and Zane Brown.
Mike leaves behind a legacy of dedication and honor, laughter and love, and the love of family and friends that will be remembered for generations to come.
Holly Pond Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ellard family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time.
