John Edward Ellisor

John was preceded in death by his first wife, Alma "Toots" Ellisor; his parents, Luke and Alma Ellisor; his brother, Wayne Ellisor; and his sisters, Patricia Ellisor and Judy Ellisor.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Priya Hudson Ellisor; his children, Jim (Melinda) Ellisor of Wimberley, Texas, D'Ann (Russell) Shaw of Spicewood, Texas, and Heather (Matt) Ache of Austin, Texas; his grandchildren, Samuel Ellisor, Ferran Ellisor, Jamie (Caleb) Sumrall, Haley Shaw, Megan Shaw, Jasmine Ache, and Sierra Ache; his brother, Mike (Nelda) Ellisor; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A 1958 graduate of Pettus High School, John went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a specialization in Wildlife Management in 1962. His education laid the foundation for a distinguished career dedicated to the study and conservation of South Texas wildlife, particularly the white-tailed deer and javelina.

Following graduation, John began his career with Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he became a respected wildlife biologist. His work significantly advanced the understanding and management of white-tailed deer populations throughout South Texas. He served as head biologist at the Chaparral Wildlife Management Area near Encinal and Cotulla, where he spent many years conducting groundbreaking research and developing innovative wildlife management practices. In 1977, John joined the Whitwell Ranch, where he continued his life's work on the 3,174-acre ranch. There, he conducted important research on spike bucks, buck-to-doe ratios, land carrying capacities, and the influence of genetics on deer herd management, leaving a lasting impact on wildlife conservation in Texas.

While John's professional accomplishments were many, he will perhaps be remembered most for his gift as a storyteller. His published articles and countless campfire stories reflected not only his expertise but also his deep appreciation for the land, its wildlife, and the people who shared his passion. John became known for tracking wounded deer for the Governor of Texas as well as hundreds of fellow hunters across the state, and each hunt became another story worth telling. His knowledge, generosity, and willingness to mentor others made him a trusted resource and treasured friend to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

John's greatest joy was never found in awards or recognition, but on the ranch, surrounded by family, loyal dogs, and the South Texas brush country he loved so deeply. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the wildlife he helped preserve, and the many lives he touched through his wisdom, kindness, and unforgettable stories.

A celebration of John's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to a wildlife conservation organization or charity of your choice in honor of John's lifelong commitment to the stewardship of Texas wildlife.