The 25th Navajo Nation Council extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of former Council Delegate and the first Speaker of the Navajo Nation, Nelson Gorman Jr., who passed away on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. Mr. Gorman was 91.
“On behalf of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, we honor the life and leadership of Speaker Nelson Gorman Jr. As the first Speaker of the Navajo Nation, he helped establish the foundation of our modern government and guided our people through a pivotal time of change. We extend our deepest condolences to the Gorman family and ask our Nation to keep them in prayer during this time of mourning,” said Speaker Crystalyne Curley.
Gorman, of Chinle, Arizona, was Tódích’íi’nii, born for Kinyaa’áanii. His maternal grandfathers were Tóts’óhnii, and his paternal grandfathers were Dibé Łizhinii.
He represented the Chinle Chapter as a Council Delegate from 1983 to 1995. In 1990, he made history by becoming the first Speaker of the Navajo Nation Council, playing a vital role in establishing the Nation’s modern three-branch government and reinforcing the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches. He was also widely respected as a peacemaker during the 1989 leadership crisis that significantly impacted the Council and the Navajo people.
Gorman is survived by his wife of 66 years, Eva Gorman; his son and daughter-in-law, Cornelius and Josie Gorman; his daughter, Caroline Gorman; and six grandchildren.
Following his service in tribal government, Gorman dedicated himself to his family and remained engaged with the political affairs of the Navajo Nation. He frequently emphasized the enduring responsibility and strength of the Navajo Nation Council as the Nation’s governing body.“As he grew older, my father remained sharp and deeply thoughtful. He approached challenges with analysis and patience, never accepting things at face value,” said his son, Cornelius Gorman. “He lived by his spirituality and faith, and those values guided every aspect of his life.”
Family meetings will be held at the Chinle Presbyterian Church in Chinle, Arizona, on Wednesday, Sept. 10, and Thursday, Sept. 11, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and on Friday, Sept. 12, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.