It is with a heavy heart we share the death of our beloved friend and mentor Jack K. Ellis. On April 15, 2026, Jack passed away at his home after a brief illness. He was born March 6, 1939, in Paris, TX.
He attended college at First Paris Junior College, North Texas State University and University of Texas at Austin where he majored in English and Theater. He was a scholar of Ancient History, Drama, and Theater. He worked as Art Director for Houston Public Broadcasting before coming to Western New Mexico University. Here he created an outstanding Drama Department where for 30 years he created numerous productions to delight us all. Some of these included Night of the Iguana; where he created a waterfall on stage. He also produced an original production of Urashimataro where he upholstered his characters in foam and felt to create a Giant Lizard and a Dragon. Other shows were plays that were significant for the times like The Cherry Orchard, Galileo, How I learned to Drive, Sea Scape, and the Bacchae.
Mixed in between there would be comedy and musicals like Seven Brides for Seven Brother, Camelot, Peter Pan, Harvey and the Importance of Being Ernest. Never having a full technical crew, Jack would spend hours into the night; building, painting, designing, and furnishing his magnificent sets. He could bring out the best in everyone. He knew how to listen and how to make you feel special. He knew how to make us laugh and cry; to feel deep emotions such as joy and sadness; a gift he shared with us in his personal and professional life. He could sometimes be hard on his actor; but only in pursuit of the quality performance we had all come to expect.
Jack had a giant heart for the down and out and opened his house and his wallet to give shelter and comfort to people and animals alike. He loved flowers, his garden, and Nature. He will surely be missed. Rest in Peace Jack.
Burial has already taken place at Pinos Altos cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at gravesite on Saturday, May 16th at 2pm. All who knew Jack are welcomed to come and share stories.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the one you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
