Windell Albert Ezell

Posted on October 18, 2023

Windell Albert Ezell, aka “Ice Cream Man,” 82, of Perry died on Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, at his home surrounded by family.

He was born in Day on July 17, 1941, to John Henry and Irene Windham Ezell

As a child he spent his time riding his bicycle selling candy and eggs. He continued developing his salesman skills by selling items (some legally questionable) from the trunk of his car while in high school.

He was well-known as a prankster. He blew up a school toilet with a cherry bomb, tricked numerous people with his “Mongoose Trap,” along with many pranks.

He graduated from Lafayette High School.

His professional career included owning Ezell Grocery in Day, selling life insurance for Gulf Life Insurance Company, a car salesman, worked with a local land survey team, developing a lawn mowing business, ice cream business and the Snowball Shack.

While with Gulf Life, he won numerous sales awards and trips. He was the manager of Perry Square for more than 20 years.

Windell was lifelong Mason and was a member of the Day Lodge where he was W.M. in 1973 and Perry lodge.

He was raised Baptist and continued with that belief.

He adored all children especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by: his wife, Shelby Carlton Ezell of Perry; sons, John Henry Ezell II of Joplin, Mo., Gene Ratliff of Perry and Kevin (Drema) Ratliff of Warner Robbins, Ga.; daughter, Lynda Edwards of Perry son; son, adopted-in-love, Willie Brown of Perry; grandchildren, Ashley (Daniel) Valentine, Cissi (Dustin) Murphy, Jessica Owens, Hannah Mardis, Noah Ratliff, Jonathon Ezell, Dillon Ezell, Anna Ezell and Zachary Ezell; 14 great-grandchildren; and his twin sister, Lynda (Buddy) Parker of Day.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, John Henry Ezell and Irene Windham Ezell; brother, Dennis Ezell; and sisters Zelda Dietrick and Bessie Jackson.

A Celebration of Life service was held Sunday, Oct. 15, at 4 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home in Perry Chapel with Robert Blue officiating. Family received friends one hour prior to the service.