Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Nathaniel Ellis Obituary
1/13/1948-12/19/2020
Nathaniel Ellis, affectionately known as Nate and professionally known as Nathaniel Deveaux ) was born on January 13, 1948 to the late Doris Watson and late Nathaniel Morgan in Poughkeepsie, NewYork and was raised with the assistance of his adopted stepfather James Ellis Sr. The eldest of six, he was preceded in death by his brothers Nathaniel and Jake.
Nate attended the local public schools, and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School, where he served as junior and senior class President and excelled in sports as the captain of the varsity football team and the varsity crew team.
He attended Lincoln University majoring in political science, while there he developed a love for acting and decided to pursue dramatic arts as his life's work. Formerly trained at the renowned Strasberg Theater Institute, Nathaniel worked extensively on television and in feature films. His film credits include, : The Butterfly Effect, The Core, Along Came a Spider and Children of the Dust. His small screen experience included roles on Smallville, The Dead Zone, The Twilight Zone and Da Vinci's Inquest, for which he won a Leo Award (British Columbia's award for Film and Television) for Best Supporting Performance in a Dramatic Series. For his role in the miniseries Taken, he was nominated for a Leo Award for Best Supporting Performance in a Miniseries. Nate was a dedicated to his craft, he taught acting to many and was working on the development of a one man show chronicling his journey with diabetes, prior to his death.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his daughter Melita Lewis (Jerry) of California, brothers Kwame Ellis (Yvette) of Arizona and John Ellis (Carol) of Washington, sister Celeste Glenn of New York, sister-in-law Pamela Ellis of Washington, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, countless friends, the SGI Buddhist community and fans.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nathaniel Ellis
5 Entries
Mary Ann Howard
January 20, 2023
My name is Mary Howard I know Nathaniel when I live on Capitol Hill. We meet at a corner store, we became very good friend's. We always sat and talked in the park will my 2 children played. I Realy miss Him and our talk's. I'm Soooo Sorry for your loss God Bless . From Seattle WA
Mary Ann Howard
September 10, 2022
I just found out of his death my name is Mary Howard I meet him in Seattle WA were I still live. He and I were close we spent alot of time together on walks and he would cook us dinner we would go to the park in Capitol hill and just enjoy peace together. I'm Sooooooo Sorry for your loss and I am sad that I didn't know sooner. He like his Peace away from everyone and alot of times he keep to himself. Hes at Peace.
Cindy Valleley
April 14, 2021
I'm so sorry for the loss Nathaniel's family has experienced.
I briefly dated him in 1988-1989. Although we did not stay in touch after that, I occasionally saw him in a film or television show and rooted for the professional success and happiness in life he worked so hard to achieve.
Nathaniel was fun, intense, and devoted to his craft. He also inspired me to think outside of the narrow parameters I'd learned to that point, and I'm forever grateful for what he taught me about life and the art of acting.
I will always remember him with great fondness and respect.
Cheryl Gelb Eppsteiner
January 26, 2021
Nate was a great friend in high school, adored by the Class of '66. He was a wonderful combination of easygoing but driven, and he had the best smile! My deepest sympathies to his daughter, sister and brothers.
Tom Aposporos
January 26, 2021
He was ahead of me at Poughkeepsie High School but I remember his prowess as an athlete and later followed his illustrious career as an actor. I send sympathy to his family.
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Nathaniel Ellis's name
Memorial Events
for Nathaniel Ellis
How to support Nathaniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Nathaniel Ellis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
