Warm Springs Chief Delvis Heath Sr., a revered leader and cultural figure of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, passed away on March 29.
Chief Heath served as the Warm Springs people’s hereditary chief for 42 years, a role in which he became a central presence in both governance and ceremonial life. He was widely respected as a speaker of the Native Sahaptin language and was often called upon to open or close tribal meetings and events with prayer. His lifelong commitment to cultural preservation extended to his role as Board Member Emeritus for the Museum at Warm Springs, as well as his active participation in the Longhouse through spiritual dancing, drumming, and singing.
During his lifetime tenure on Tribal Council, Chief Heath also played a critical role in representing the Nation’s interests beyond the reservation. He served as an important liaison with federal and state governments, advocating for tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protections, fishing rights, and tribal health issues.
Chief Heath was born September 26, 1938, to Nathan and Lilly Heath on the family ranch near Simnasho. In 1984, he assumed the role of hereditary chief, honoring the wishes of his people and continuing the leadership legacy of his father.
In 1960, he married Shirley Stahi of Celilo Village along the Columbia River. Together they raised four children—two of whom are deceased—as well as a niece and nephew and many others they welcomed into their home. Their family has since grown to include numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Chief Heath is remembered by family, friends, and colleagues as a lifelong horseman and a steady, wise leader whose life reflected the traditional values instilled in him from childhood.
