Cynthia Ann Ellis, 78, of Valliant, OK, the daughter of Hugh Cruce and Oma Viola (Folsom) Cox was born on January 13, 1947, in Atoka, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Glenda Sheryl Minick and brother-in-law, Bill Minick.

Cynthia is survived by her husband, Jerry Ellis of Valliant, OK; son, Tom Ellis of Idabel, OK; nephews, Steven Minick and wife Cindy, of Allen, TX and Phillip Minick and wife Gayle of Corona, CA, along with other family and friends, including her cat, Tiger.

The daughter and sister of educators, Cynthia's career in public education spanned three decades. She taught high school English and adult vocational education. She served ten years as Valliant Middle School Principal, during which time the faculty and staff valued her leadership.  She saw it as her goal to help all students fulfill their potential.

Cynthia rarely missed a service at the Methodist Church in Valliant, her church home for over 40 years, serving in numerous leadership roles in the local congregation as well as on the district level.

Cynthia loved her family dearly. She and Jerry have been married nearly 44 years. She was a devoted mother to Tom and a beloved aunt to Steven and Phillip. All the family will cherish her memory.

Cynthia belonged to the Delta Kappa Gamma teachers' sorority and was recognized for her service in McCurtain County Retired Educators. Cynthia also participated in various political and civic causes. She enjoyed reading, and during her education career she emphasized the importance of reading.