Jeffrey Okla Elliott Ph.D.

Jeffrey Okla Elliott, Ph.D., 39, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Sunday, March 19, 2017, at his home. He will be remembered as a prolific writer, teacher, mentor, beloved brother and friend.

He is survived by his mother, Freida Elliott; sisters, Vickie Elliott Brammer and Flora Elliott D'Souza; and nieces and a nephew, Hannah Brammer, Sabrina D'Souza and Michael Brammer.

He was preceded in death by his father, Okla Harold Elliott.

Okla earned a Ph.D. in comparative literature from the University of Illinois, an MFA in creative writing from The Ohio State University and a certificate in legal studies from Purdue University. 

Okla published widely in national and international literary magazines, journals and newspapers. He was the author of several works of fiction, nonfiction and poetry, including From the Crooked Timber, The Cartographer's Ink, The Doors You Mark Are Your Own, Blackbirds in September, Bernie Sanders: The Essential Guide, and Pope Francis: The Essential Guide. He was a co-founder and editor of New American Press and MAYDAY Magazine, where he encouraged and cultivated the talent of both new and established writers. He also co-founded a blog for literary and political commentary, As It Ought to Be.

Okla served as an assistant professor of English at Misericordia University.

Overcoming the obstacles of growing up poor and losing his father at age 10, Okla was an advocate for education as a pathway out of poverty. His too-short life served as a witness to his philosophy. His life and his loss touch his students, colleagues, friends and family. He will be missed, but he lives on in his words, his genius and our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Okla's life at 11 a.m. Friday in the Mercy Chapel at Misericordia University, Dallas.

Condolences may be sent by visiting Okla's obituary at www.natandgawlas.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat & Gawlas Funeral Home, 89 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre.