Indianapolis lost a leader.
Rev. Charles Ellis, pastor of 25th Street Baptist Church and state director of Ten Point Coalition died on Sept. 9. Ellis was 54.
Before becoming state director, Ellis served as executive director for Indianapolis Ten Point Coalition.
Servant is one word longtime friend Rev. Charles Harrison used to describe Ellis.
“He was really a great servant,” Harrison said. “I really want to emphasize that — a great servant to the community. He really put the community first. He’s always had that kind of attitude for others. What can he do for others to make life better for other people?”
Ellis and Harrison met about 16 years ago as part of Ministers on the Move. The two men spent many nights holding candlelight vigils for victims of homicides, comforting families and trying to steer young adults out of the street life and into jobs as well as help them find other needed resources.
“Rev. Ellis was really a warrior and very passionate for the issues that he really believed in,” Harrison said. “He really believed in issues of racial and economic justice for all people.”
Ellis didn’t let his illness stop him from serving and fighting for others, Harrison said. He tirelessly sought to help victims of unsolved homicides by hosting families at his church and working with them to solve the crime.
“He wasn’t always feeling well, but he was willing to make that sacrifice for them even when he was in pain, but you would never know.”
Ellis is survived by his wife, Tonya, and one daughter. Harrison is hopeful the community gives the Ellis family the same support he’s given to others.
“This has been a tough time for his family, and they’re going to need the love and support to get trough this difficult time. Pastor Ellis was a great guy. He was a warm and loving human being that gave so much to the community. This is an opportunity to give back to his family.”
Services for Rev. Charles Ellis
Visitation: 4-8 p.m. Sept. 14 and 9-11 a.m. Sept. 15 at 25th Street Baptist Church, 525 W. 25th St. Services to follow visitation at the church. Burial will be at Washington Park North Cemetery.
Rev. Charles Ellis
