Elvis Edgar Ellis

Elvis Edgar Ellis, a beloved elder, decorated veteran, a proud member and former Chief of the Sac and Fox Fish Clan, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 2, 2025, in Midwest City, Oklahoma. He was 94 years old.

Elvis was born on January 9, 1931, in Avery, Oklahoma, the son of Edgar Conklin Ellis and Myrtle May (McKinney) Ellis. He lived a life defined by service—to his country, his people, and his family.

As a young man, while still in high school, Elvis joined the United States Army National Guard. His commitment quickly led him to active duty in the U.S. Army, where he served honorably across the globe for 25 years. Upon retiring from military service, he continued his dedication to the nation by working at Tinker Air Force Base for 21 more years.

Elvis’s devotion to his Native heritage remained central throughout his life. He proudly served as Chief of the Sac and Fox Fish Clan and contributed greatly as chairman and secretary of the Sac and Fox Elders Advisory Committee. He also led efforts to preserve and protect Indigenous heritage as the Committee Chair for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). In recognition of his tireless leadership and advocacy, he was honored in 2023 with the AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors.

On July 15, 1953, Elvis married the love of his life, Henrietta Vanessa Cross, in Cordell, Oklahoma. Their union was one of deep partnership and devotion. Henrietta preceded him in death on April 26, 2015. Together, they raised two daughters, Connie Ellis and Sonja Ellis, and built a legacy that lives on through numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Elvis was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers—Jackson Ellis, Melvin Gene Ellis, and Virgil Ellis—and five sisters—Mildred G. Marceleno, Peggy Ann Paulette Ellis, Gail Ruth Ellis Marez, Joyce Ellis and Gloria Jean Ellis. He is survived by his daughters, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his brother Leroy Ellis, and his sister Lela Lopez.

Elvis Ellis leaves behind a powerful legacy of strength, wisdom, and service. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.