An "elder" is generally defined as someone of higher rank, seniority, or an influential member of a tribe or community who holds authority by virtue of age and experience. Depending on the context, writing about an elder can range from honoring a family member to detailing the spiritual responsibilities of a church leader.
: Serving as caretakers and managers of the church, including determining policy.
: They are expected to be sober-minded, self-controlled, disciplined, and respectable. How to write a great obituary - Powwow, LLC