Ellie Valdez Honeyman has touched and inspired very many lives. She was one of those rare souls whom others are always happy to encounter, even if just in passing and to share a quick hello. She had a natural way of always leaving other feeling uplifted, and I know those who had the privilege of knowing her will always remember that.

Ellie died earlier this week after a very courageous battle with cancer. And the tremendous number of lives she touched in her lifetime ranged from those who loved her dearly, to a large community of friends who were deeply touched reading about her brave and valiant battle with her terrible cancer which became yet another inspiring testament of just “who” she was.

I met Ellie many years ago when we both worked at Laradon Hall School and Vocational Center for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Ellie headed the Laradon Early Education Program (LEEP), while I worked in the adult vocational center. And although we rarely worked directly together,  she frequently contributed to the monthly newsletter which I coordinated. As anyone who knew her will quickly tell you, no project was ever too big or too small for Ellie, and she tackled every single one with commitment and determination and was a joy to work with.

A few months ago (Summer 2008), a group of “alumni” employees put together a reunion picnic at Laradon Hall so we could reconnect with old friends and co-workers. Ellie attended with her family, and although the toll of the cancer was evident, it is more notable that she was her usual cheerful self that we all remembered so well. I was reminded of just how remarkable a person she truly was; always full of joy and optimism, and how that had not changed even as she bravely faced her cancer and her mortality.

Ellie generously chronicled her personal journey with cancer in a weekly blog, and true to her nature, she continued to be active in the community right up until her passing. Her faith and optimism as she battled the terrible disease that invaded her body and life was awe-inspiring to witness.

Today I pay tribute and thank Ellie, not only for myself, but also on behalf of the countless others who were blessed and inspired by having known her. She will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by the countless people who are better for having known her.

Read More About Ellie Here