Ennis Shedwin III

Ennis Shedwin III

On October 20, 1972, Mr. and Mrs. Ennis Shedwin Jr. proudly welcomed a son into the world. Surrounded by love and hope, he was given his father's name and his own beginning: Ennis Shedwin III.

From his earliest years, Ennis' remarkable gifts revealed themselves with quiet certainty. Nurtured by parents who were both educators, Ennis was immersed in the richness of the performing arts, the discipline of music, and a devotion to study- cultivating a spirit as curious as it was gifted. At seven, Ennis joined the Permian Playhouse, earning acclaim over the next five years in both lead and supporting roles while balancing church leadership, music lessons, athletics, and academics. In addition to his many talents, Ennis displayed prodigious intellectual and oratorical gifts. Scholastic achievements classified him as Gifted and Talented and his extraordinary memory and commanding presence made him a standout speaker at local, state, and national baptist church conventions. By third grade, Ennis achieved national recognition with a memorable recitation of James Weldon Johnson's "The Creation" at the National Baptist Convention, affirming both his literary sensitivity and rare poise before large audiences. Focused, curious, and determined, Ennis envisioned a future as a musician, actor, physician, or athlete-revealing even then a spirit unmistakably larger than life.

In seventh grade at Nimitz Junior High School, Ennis was appointed drum major-an honor rarely granted so early and a reflection of the respect he'd earned from peers and directors. Athletically inclined, Ennis also participated in soccer and football until an injury curtailed his athletic pursuits. By his sophomore year at Permian High School, Ennis had emerged as a standout trumpet soloist, performing with both the Symphonic and Jazz Bands. That excellence was consistently recognized through All-City honors, first-division ratings at Solo & Ensemble competitions, and advancement through Region, Pre-Area, and Area competitions. Ennis further shaped his musical voice with membership in Youth Spiritual Enlightenment (YSE), the distinguished Midland-Odessa gospel choir, where his expressive singing reflected the depth and range of his musicality.

After graduating from Permian High School in 1991, Ennis matriculated at Morehouse College that summer. Arriving early to attend band camp, Ennis quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional trumpet player in the marching band. His musical aptitude was so pronounced that he was selected to perform on the piccolo trumpet-an honor reserved for musicians of the highest caliber. To say that Ennis loved being in the band would be an understatement. It was there that he formed enduring bonds with brothers and sisters who would remain part of his life long after the final cadence. Although his academic path lay in the sciences, music fueled Ennis' soul. He possessed the discerning ear of an impresario and the talent to match it. Whether lifting his trumpet or effortlessly releasing his signature raspy, melodic vocals, Ennis moved through campus in rhythm with his brilliance. His presence was undeniable and his talent incomparable-leaving a life long impact on his Morehouse and Spelman families.

After attending Morehouse College, Ennis returned to his roots and the oilfields of West Texas. On November 4, 2006, in Midland, Texas, he was united in Holy matrimony with Tamanika Tyeise Zellis, a native of Midland, Texas. They were blessed with one son, Christian Bryce Shedwin.

From the corridors of Permian High School and Morehouse's Hubert Hall to the flatlands of West Texas, Ennis Shedwin III left his mark. He will be remembered with enduring affection by all whose lives were touched and enriched by his presence.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ennis Shedwin Jr. (1934-2002); his mother, Mrs. Jo Berne Shedwin (1944-2022); and his grandson Bryce Taskyleon Shedwin (2006-2006).

Those who survive to cherish his memory include his wife Tamanika Tyeise Shedwin; his two adult children (who are listed according to birth order): Kevorick Shedwin and his wife Bianca and Christian Shedwin.

His descendants also include 5 grandchildren (listed according to birth order): Jayda Rodriquez, Knowledge Shedwin, Ke'Vauni Shedwin, Ke'Majesty Shedwin and Ke'Royal Shedwin.

His surviving siblings include his brother Clarence Shedwin, sister Rolander Tanner and her husband Jacques and sister Kathy Shedwin.

He is also survived by his uncles Harold Brown and his wife Sharon; Benny Brown and his wife Pamela; as well as a many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Others who cherish his memory are his sister-in-law (more affectionately sister) Tamika Dalton and her husband Justin; sister-in-law Sabrina Zellis, and Mr. and Mrs. Catarino "Sai" Valdez.

Mr. Shedwin passed into eternal peace on January 9, 2026.

A private family service will be held to honor the life of Ennis Shedwin III.