Celebrating the life of
Carl Joseph VanEllison Sr.
March 14, 1935 - March 07, 2026
Mr. Carl Joseph “Cherry Red” VanEllison Sr. transitioned on March 7th, 2026 at home under the care of Hospice. Surrounded by his Daughter Marcia and (son in law)Melvin and bonus son Joe Gathers (Sharon).
He was born March 14, 1935 in Savannah, GA and lived in Savannah all of his life. He went to St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Parochial School for elementary and Graduated from Beach-Cuyler High in 1955 and later married Marchellar Bryan and they had five sons.
Carl Sr. was an avid business man in the city of Savannah. He was a merchant seaman, owner of Van’s car wash located on Wheaton Street and Cherry’s lounge on East Broad Street. Carl was also the head barber on Hunter Army Airfield for many years. He then opened his very first shop, Cherry’s Barbershop on East Broad Street. He eventually owned and operated his second shop Van’s Barbershop on 41st & Bull Street for several years where he later retired.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Dr. Ruth Laney Franklin VanEllison; step-son, Billy Laney; parents, Jack VanEllison Sr. and Sarah Marie Crosby VanEllison; a sister, Loretta Collins; and a brother, Jack VanEllison Jr.
Surviving are his five sons Hasan Bakr (Karen) of NYC, Eric VanEllison of Macon, GA, Marcell VanEllison (Kim) of Tampa, FL, Darryl VanEllison (Natatia) of Savannah, GA, Frank VanEllison (Jacquelyn) of Savannah GA, two daughters Marcia Furman Griffin (Melvin) of Savannah, GA, Sara Marie Berry (Tim) of Savannah GA. Bonus children Sandra Franklin and Tracy Laney. One sister Candace Scott of New Jersey. And Two sister in laws Sheldonia VanEllison of Augusta, GA and Doris Hall of Savannah, GA.
The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 21st at 1pm. Services will be entrusted to Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Chapel at 7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah, GA 31406
This has been a hard one for me. An amazing friend that I would never ever forget. To the family my prayers are with you all. Rest in peace Van the man
- reggie shellman, Savannah , Ga
Our sincere condolences for your loss. Wishing you and your family strength and comfort during this difficult time.
- Dwayne and Kim West, Stockbridge, GA
Sending you strength and love as you navigate this difficult time
- Morocco M Morgan, Fitzgerald, GA
A candle has been lit!
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Condolences, Nelson & Terry family
- Natalie Nelson Terry, Savannah , Georgia
So very sorry about a real great man I enjoyed my relationship with Carl as an agent for his health my codolences to the family
- Richard Brookshire, Statham, Georgia
A candle has been lit!
Condolences, you will be missed.
- Holcey Family, SAVANNAH, GA
My condolences goes out to the family. Praying for strength and serenity to guide you all through these challenging ordeal. This too shall past and make the family closer and more unified. You must carry on Cherry Red's legacy for generations to come. Keep yall heads up and prayers going up....!
- Joseph Jones, Savannah, Georgia
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Memorial Service
- 1:00 p.m. on Sat, March 21, 2026
- St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church
-
7020 Concord Road (map)
SAVANNAH GA 31410 - 912-897-5156