Dr. Ellis Sacks

Ellis H. Sacks, age 84, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away on January 8th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassionate care, community involvement, and a dedication to bettering the lives of others. He is survived by his loving sons, Rand (Melissa) and Matthew Sacks, his cherished grandsons, Desmond and Justin, and his devoted brother and sister-in-law, Michael & Deidre Sacks. 

A proud Philadelphian, Ellis was a graduate of Overbrook High School and Temple University, later earning his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical School (now Drexel University College of Medicine) in 1968. He completed his internship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and a fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Washington, further solidifying his commitment to pediatrics.

Dr. Sacks’ distinguished career in pediatric and adolescent medicine spanned over 40 years. In 1972, he co-founded Pediatric & Adolescent Associates, Ltd., in Wynnewood, PA, where he provided exceptional care to generations of children and their families. His dedication to his patients was unwavering, often going beyond expectations with late-night house calls and providing care for the same families from birth through adolescence. His commitment to the health of his patients extended to his work at the University of Pennsylvania’s Student Health Center from 1996 to 2006, where he spearheaded initiatives in men’s health and conducted important research on trends in student health care.

Dr. Sacks was also deeply involved in volunteer work, dedicating much of his time to causes he cared about. Since 2014, he served as a volunteer for Action Wellness’s Buddy Program, where he facilitated support groups for those in recovery and assisted individuals coping with addiction. His compassionate nature and his training in Addictions Counseling, which he pursued at the Community College of Philadelphia, made him a trusted guide for those in need.

Ellis was an avid traveler, relishing the opportunity to explore the world with family and friends. He was known for his love of pretzels (both chocolate-covered and soft), and for his deep commitment to the Philadelphia gay community, where he worked to ensure that gay men lived healthy, fulfilled lives. He treasured time spent with his sons, particularly during snow days when they would set up elaborate Lionel train displays.

Ellis’s warm and caring nature, his lifelong commitment to service, and his dedication to his patients and community will be deeply missed. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in his honor to the William Way LGBT Community Center in Philadelphia (www.waygay.org).

A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00am on Sunday February 2nd at Joseph Levine & Sons Funeral Home, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008.

Arrangements by Joseph Levine & Sons - Trevose, PA - www.levinefuneral.com