Gary Dewayne Ellis, Sr. is the Pastor and founder of Abundant Life Outreach Center (ALOC). Over 25 years ago, he, along with his wife Yvette and their four children, began the journey of transforming 119 Chapel Street into a beacon of light in Clarksville. Pastor Ellis is a man of integrity, guiding his family, staff, and congregation with strong moral principles. His unwavering dedication to God’s call and the vision for Clarksville and the world has shaped his leadership.

Born and raised in Louisville, KY, Pastor Ellis enlisted in the U.S. Army in the mid-1970s, where he met and married Yvette Armour in 1978. Early in his ministry, Pastor Ellis faced many challenges, but his faith in God’s plan never wavered. In 1987, after holding services in three different storefronts, he purchased the property at 119 Chapel Street, where ALOC continues to thrive today. Together, Pastor Ellis and his wife have four children.

Throughout his ministry, Pastor Ellis has seen God’s faithfulness through challenges such as three church splits, severe financial hardship, and his own deployment during Operation Desert Storm. In 1997, in a bold act of faith, the Ellis family moved out of their home to live in the basement of another family’s house for two years to keep the church doors open. During this time, ALOC experienced a great revival and remarkable growth.

Today, the Ellis family and the church community are reaping the blessings of years of sacrifice. God has not only restored all things to Pastor Ellis and his family but has expanded his ministry across the globe. ALOC continues to be a source of hope and refuge in Clarksville and beyond. Pastor Ellis remains passionate about leading others to salvation and seeking the continual outpouring of the Holy Spirit for all believers.