Paiute Chief Joe Moses Passes

Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Paiute Chief Joseph Moses died today, August 27, 2026. He was a longtime community leader who served the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in a number of leadership roles, including as Paiute Chief since July 2001.

Moses grew up on the Warm Springs Reservation and attended Madras High School before graduating from Riverside Indian School in Oklahoma. Growing up, he raised cattle and horses with his uncle Nick and other family members.

Moses later worked as a Range Rider for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Natural Resources Department before retiring from the position.

His career in tribal leadership began in 1992 when he was elected to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Tribal Council. In 1995, he was elected vice chairman and later became Tribal Council chairman during that term. Moses served three terms on Tribal Council before becoming Paiute Chief in July 2001. He continued to serve on the CTWS Tribal Council.

Throughout his years of service, Moses was involved in several tribal and community organizations. He served on the CTWS Gaming team and the Warm Springs Composite Board, and was a member of the Sapsik’wala Advisory Council at the University of Oregon.

Education and youth development were important areas of focus for Moses. He advocated for Native American teachers in public school systems and supported efforts to address challenges facing Native American students. He was also a strong supporter of youth leadership and development.

Moses was community oriented and spoke out about the challenges posed by drug and alcohol use among youth and community members. His work reflected a commitment to supporting young people, education, leadership and the Warm Springs community.

As Paiute Chief, Moses represented and served the Paiute community for more than 25 years. His death marks the loss of a longtime tribal leader who dedicated decades to public service and community leadership.

Chief Moses, who was born August 4, 1954, was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Kathleen Moses; his children, Lois Miller and Marlen Miller; his siblings, Victor, William, Oliver, Patricia, and Lily Ann Moses; and Todd Danzuka.

He is survived by his sisters, Joann Moses and Fran Moses-Ahern; his son, Luke Miller; and his Ai-yut, Doris Miller.

Services for Chief Moses will be held at the Agency Longhouse. On Monday, Aug. 31, dressing will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by an open denomination service, dinner at 5:30 p.m. and Washut at 7:00 p.m. On Tuesday, breakfast will be served at 7:00 a.m., with departure for Simnasho Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. Burial will follow, with a return to the Agency Longhouse afterward.