Eleanor "Ellie" McDougall (née Conrad), born on March 14, 1946 in Porterville, CA, passed away suddenly at home on February 4, 2023 in Alexandria, VA. Ellie was a devoted mother to two daughters, Carrie and Amanda, and cherished grandmother to her sole grandchild, Gio. She was the daughter of Roy and Betty Conrad who were long-time residents of Terra Bella, CA.
Ellie graduated from Porterville High School in 1964 and went on to receive her AA from Porterville College in 1966. She met her future husband, Fred McDougall, at San Jose State University, and they married in 1968. With her husband in the Navy, the family lived in various cities in California including Lemoore, San Diego, and Seaside. In 1981, Ellie and her family settled in Alexandria, VA, where she lived until her passing. She worked for many years as a network administrator and administrative assistant for a Virginia accounting firm and retired in 2003.
Throughout her life, Ellie was a constant caregiver and put attending to her loved ones’ needs before anything for herself. She was especially close to her grandson, and her adoration of all children was a defining characteristic. She also loved music, travel and exploring world cuisines. In her travels, she visited destinations across the US (at least 34 states!), Europe, and China, with Italy being her favorite. She had a natural talent for identifying plants and flowers; she appreciated their beauty and diversity and enjoyed going to botanical gardens. But she was most passionate about spending time with her family and friends. Ellie was known for her infectious laugh, warm smile, and ability to carry on a conversation. She was smart, fun, and a spark of joy to those around her.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Ellie is survived by daughters Carrie McDougall (John Varesi) and Amanda McDougall (Elyas Beria), grandchild Gio Beria, and brother Greg Conrad (Kathy Conrad). She is preceded in death by her father Roy Alexander Conrad and mother Betty Sue Conrad.
A celebration of her life, including a service, will be held on February 26, 2-5pm at Demaine Funeral Home (5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA). The service will begin at 2:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to No Kid Hungry and the International Rescue Committee.
Links below to donate.
