Aimé Ellis (1969-2009)

Aimé Jero Ellis died at his home in Lansing, Mich., on May 26, 2009. He was 39.

Aimé was an associate professor of English and core faculty in African and African American Studies at Michigan State University whose scholarship focused on practices of freedom and experiences of violence and incarceration in Black history and popular culture in the United States. He was an engaged and passionate teacher who transformed the lives of students in Texas, Kentucky, and Michigan.

A talented singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Aimé drew on cultural traditions of the Black Atlantic as well as contemporary punk and pop to create a body of songs he recorded as Aimé Ellis and the Pleasures of Exile.

Aimé was born in Seattle, Wash., one of two sons to Ora J. Ellis and Kenneth Ellis. He had a strong sense of style from a young age, beginning during his first years of school in Jamaica. His musical gifts first became apparent after the family moved to Saudi Arabia, where he joined his schools choir at the age of 12.

He received his BA from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and his PhD from the University of Texas, Austin. His first teaching position was at the University of Kentucky. He joined the MSU English Department in 2001.

It was in Kentucky where Aimé first met Amanda Macheé York. They married in a small ceremony at the St. John's Courthouse in Clinton County, Mich., on February 27, 2009. On May 24, a host of family and friends celebrated their marriage at their home in Lansing.

Aimé Ellis lost his brother, Ian Alexander Ellis, in 2007. Aimé is survived by his wife, Amanda York Ellis of Lansing; nephews Dylan Ellis of San Antonio, Texas and Isaiah and Levi Ellis of Dallas, Texas; his mother, Ora J. Ellis of Garland, Texas; his father, Kenneth Ellis of Old Harbour, Jamaica; extended family and scores of beloved friends.

We mourn a loving, loyal, brilliant, and compassionate man.

Video tribute by Ashley York.

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• Aimé Ellis
• Ashley York
• Amanda York
• If We Must Die

[JTsmiley14]

Aime Ellis was one of the most influential professors to my growth as an English student and critical thinker. His course opened my eyes to gender and race issues that have become an important part of my life as an ethical individual and activist.

He will be missed.

[Villeslgr]

I want to send my condolences to the family. I had Professor Ellis in the Spring of 2001 for Major Black Writers at the University of Kentucky. I was going through some books and papers and came across the course book he created for us. After a search I came across this page and was stunned. Professor Ellis was a great professor and in the short time I was in his class he was a great and positive influence.

[canyoudigthisfood]

I'm posting this video on my fb. I was at the riv this past week and I had a friend who had also had Professor Ellis this past semester. We talked for a long time and immediately both agreed that he is the best teacher we've ever had and will take him in our hearts forever. It is very rare to have such a good solid role model and at every step of the turn, Aime Ellis' intelligence, resolve and style shines stentorian.

[bucqui]

What a wonderful enduring memorial.

[sassyjt]

Ellis Family, I only had the pleasure of spending the day with you all but I want you all to know it was truly a pleasure. You are such nice people and please know my prayers are with you during this very sad time. JT ps I love the videos, very very cool.

[lesliekc]

It is a beautiful tribute. I knew Ian better than Aime, but remember Aime well. My condolences to all the Ellis Family.

[alexinwunderlander]

absolutely stunning video, thank you for making and putting these videos online, Aime, you are missed and loved.

[sharonquintal]

So glad to see Aime in his good days. We all feel the pain of the family and friends especially his beautiful mother, Ora. Who knows why fate does the things it does... we can only imagine. Peace and love for those left behind.

Sharon Quintal

[texsinger]

what a beautiful tribute.. i didn't know aime, but i know his mom, ora.. i want to extend my deepest sympathies to aime's family and friends.. and send hugs especially to ora..

love to all - traci thomas