Luan Ellis receiving the Robe of Achievement, 1996

Luan Ellis was a committed Christian, a humble servant who was always ready and willing to be of service wherever she was needed. She was born in Olean, NY to Rev. Harley and Madge Sutton. Her father was pastor of the Little Genesee Seventh Day Baptist Church and she grew up in Alfred Station, NY and joined the Alfred Station church in 1954 and she was an active member ever since. Luan and her husband Ronald had 3 children.

Luan graduated from Alfred- Almond Central School in ALmond, NY and earned a Masters Degree in Math Education from Alfred University. She served as an advisor for several high school classes at Alfred-Almond where she taught for 29 years. She was president of the teachers union for several years and was well respected by both faculty and students.

She served the local church in many ways throughout her life. She taught Sabbath School and Vacation Bible School, chaired the Finance Committee and served as president and secretary of the Union Industrial Society (which was a ladies organization). She chaired the Christian Education Committee for several years and also chaired many fund raising and service dinners. She served as clerk of the church and director of the chime choir. She also prepared the church bulletin each well and sang in the choir.

Luan was the recording secretary and a member of the Executive Committee for the Allegheny Association and also served as a delegate to other Associations.

Luan served the SDB Board of Christian Education as a summer youth worker, a member of the Board of Directors for 25 years, chairman of the Youth Committee, and vice president. She also was the chairman of the Life Ventures Committee for several years.

She was General Conference president in 1989 and a member of General Council. Luan and her husband co-chaired the Conference Host Committee in 1976 and 1983. She also chaired the Missions International Interest Committee.

At the time of the award Luan was a member of the local MORE 2000 Leadership Team, and served as the MORE 2000 denominational coordinator of churches in the North Central Association. She was also an elected member and secretary of the SDB Council on Ministry.

Throughout her life Luna lived out the theme she chose and General Conference president “Share the Joy.”