As an expression of her faith, Ellen Abbie Compton-Tejera served on the committee that organized and launched Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington (SMGW) in 1986. She subsequently served on the SMGW Board of Directors (1987 – 1991), representing St. Thomas Episcopal Church (DC), one of SMGW’s founding partner parishes. Her service on the Board culminated with being a Board officer, first as Vice-President, then as President.in 1989-1990. Ellen influenced and served with many pivotal leaders and staff in those early days of Samaritan Ministry, notably Executive Director (Ms.) R. Carter Echols and several subsequent Board members whom Ellen inspired to serve. One such Board member, Melissa Barrett from Partner Parish All Souls’ Episcopal Church, described her as many had experienced her: As a positive “force of nature” in her passion for, and commitment to, SMGW’s mission. Ellen’s legacy here lives on in the work of SMGW, now a 35-years-old and a highly successful, faith-based non-profit whose mission continues to be empowering our neighbors in need to live sustainable and purposeful lives.  

Inspired by her legacy and in keeping with her wishes, Ellen’s family invites memorial contributions to Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington. Checks may be made out to “SMGW” or “Samaritan Ministry”. Please put “In Memory of Ellen Compton-Tejera” in the memo line, then mail to: SMGW, 1516 Hamilton Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011