For close to four decades, Tyrone Ellis was a steady, moderate and respected voice in the Mississippi Legislature.
Monday, the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors issued a resolution honoring Ellis’ 38 years representing the 38th District, which includes Oktibbeha County and parts of Lowndes and Clay counties.
With the exception of Gary Chism, the entire Golden Triangle legislative corps attended, adding their voices to those of the supervisors in praise of Ellis.
We add ours as well.
Ellis, 71, announced his resignation at the end of June and will devote his time other pursuits, including his role as pastor at Running Water Baptist Church in Noxubee County.
The Democrat from Starkville will be remembered not merely for the length of his tenure, of course.
He holds the distinction of being the first House Majority Leader, a position created in 2008 when the Democrats held a majority in the House. For much of his tenure, Ellis was a member of the ruling party in the state. When the Republicans gained control in 2010, Ellis remained what he was before — an independent voice who believed that legislators had an obligation to work together for the benefit of the people, even when that meant crossing party lines to do so. He did not bully when his party held power. He did not sulk when his party was out of it. Legislators, be they Democrat or Republican, conservative or liberal, admired and liked him.
Ellis proved to be conservative on some issues, progressive on others — always based on what served the best interest of his district and state. There is too little of that in politics these days.
Although well established as a senior member in the legislature, he was always eager to reach out to new lawmakers, regardless of party affiliation, to help guide them through the vagaries of the legislative process.
Our two newest Golden Triangle legislators, Republican Senator Chuck Younger and Democrat Representative Kabir Karriem both spoke fondly of Ellis during Tuesday’s meeting.
“There’s not a Republican or Democrat in Jackson who doesn’t love the man,” Younger said.
A special election has been called in November and someone will be chosen to occupy his seat but not his place. His experience, willingness to work with political rivals and kindness are qualities that cannot be replaced right away, if at all.
We commend Tyrone Ellis for his service and wish him every success in all he pursues.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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