Longtime Memphis healthcare leader Maurice Elliott died June 19 at his home in Germantown, Tenn., the Commercial Appeal reported. He was 85.
Mr. Elliott notably served as CEO of Methodist Healthcare, now Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, from 1990 to 2001.
During his tenure, Methodist became one of the nation’s largest hospital systems and received national recognition for its quality, diversity and innovative care, according to his obituary. Mr. Elliott was named CEO emeritus upon his retirement in 2001.
Also notably, during his early days as a night administrator at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Mr. Elliott famously announced Elvis Presley’s death to the media, according to his obituary.
His career overall was “defined by vision, integrity, and a deeply personal commitment to community well-being,” his obituary states.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn a member of our Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare family, Maurice Elliott, who served as president and CEO from 1990-2001,” the health system posted on Facebook. “Please join us in praying for Maurice’s family and loved ones.”
Another individual commented on the post: “Maurice Elliott hired me as a graduate student. I have no idea why… I knew nothing! He was the most amazing mentor. Almost 25 years later and I 100% would not be where I am today had he not taken that chance on me. So much love to his family and the entire Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare family. What an incredible legacy.”
