Oregon flags flew at half-staff Wednesday at public buildings across the state in formal tribute to Paiute Chief Joseph Moses of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, who passed away the morning of August 27 after a lifetime of service to his people and the broader community.
Gov. Tina Kotek issued the order and offered condolences to Chief Moses's family and the Confederated Tribes, calling him a steadfast advocate for Native youth and honest dialogue about difficult issues facing the community.
"Chief Moses was a consistent, strong voice for youth leadership and educational opportunities. He spoke honestly about hard things when it would have been easier to look away. That is the work of someone building a future for others. He will be missed." — Gov. Tina Kotek
A Life of Service to the Tribes
Joseph Moses was first elected to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Tribal Council in 1992, beginning a career in tribal governance that would span more than three decades. He rose quickly through the leadership ranks, serving as vice chairman beginning in 1995 and later as tribal council chairman within that same term. He served three consecutive terms in council leadership before being elevated to Paiute Chief in July 2001 — a position he held with distinction until his passing.
Throughout his tenure, Moses served on the tribal gaming team and the Warm Springs Composite Board, helping to guide the economic and community development of the reservation through decades of change.
Advocate for Native Youth and Education
Chief Moses was known well beyond the reservation boundaries for his advocacy work. He served on the Sapsik'wala Advisory Council at the University of Oregon, an initiative dedicated to increasing the number of Native American teachers in Oregon's public schools. He believed deeply that Native educators were essential to helping Native students thrive academically while remaining grounded in their cultural identity.
Moses was also candid about the challenges facing Warm Springs youth — including the community impacts of drug and alcohol issues — and worked tirelessly to build solutions and support structures for the next generation of tribal members.
Mourning Across Jefferson County
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, whose reservation lies within Jefferson County, are a vital part of the county's cultural, economic, and civic fabric. The passing of Chief Moses has resonated widely across the region — from Madras and Culver to Metolius and beyond.
Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Community members wishing to offer condolences may contact the tribal offices directly at the Warm Springs Reservation.
Chief Joseph Moses is survived by his family and the community he devoted more than 34 years to serving. The Madras Bulletin extends its deepest condolences to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and to all who knew and loved him.