Ezra Keller, D.D. was born on May 12, 1812 in Middletown, Maryland to Jacob and Rosanna Daub Keller. His early years were spent on the family farm, before he was sent to a German school around the age of 12.

While at school, Keller was inspired to learn about Christianity and felt called into ministry. He joined the church in 1930. Keller attended Pennsylvania College and completed his studies in 1935. He then set out on missionary work across Maryland and as far west as Illinois.

He was married to Miss Caroline Routzong in 1837 and had six children.

Keller's missionary work led him to Ohio, where he accepted a theological professorship with a new institution associated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wooster. Keller settled his family in Springfield, Ohio in December 1844.

Shortly thereafter, the Board of the Directors for the new religious institution chose Springfield as the permanent

location for their institution, Wittenberg College. Keller also assisted with the creation of two churches in Springfield and Yellow Springs.

Keller served as the first president of Wittenberg College and remained in his role until he fell suddenly ill and died on December 29, 1848. He was buried in Woodshade Cemetery and transferred to Ferncliff Cemetery in 1868 where he is surrounded by family.

Ezra Keller is interred in Ferncliff Cemetery, Section E Lot 25.