A.D. Ellis, the two-term Principal Chief of the Muscogee Nation, died peacefully at his home on the Muscogee Reservation Sept. 14. He was 90 years old.
He served as principal chief in 2004 and again in 2008, growing the tribal transit system, tribally-owned housing authority and development of land holdings along the Arkansas River. Those holdings eventually made way for Tulsa’s River Spirit Casino Resort.
“Chief Ellis was a dedicated leader, a staunch defender of the Constitution, and a good man, who never saw himself above the employees or the citizens as Principal Chief,” Principal Chief David Hill said in a statement.
Ellis is survived by former First Lady and wife Gail along with numerous family, friends and loved ones. The Muscogee Nation will announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.
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