Ellie Lara

Ellie dedicated 38 years of service to the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), where she worked from 1978 until her retirement in 2016. She treasured the friendships she made there and continued to enjoy spending time with her former colleagues for many years.

Ellie loved being with family and friends. She often enjoyed lunch gatherings with her church group from the St. Raphael’s community, as well as visits with neighbors and close friends.

Ellie is preceded in death by her parents, Benito and Maria De Jesus Carrejo; her siblings Fernando, Jaime, Gerardo, and Viola Carrejo, and Armida Govea; and her beloved furry companion, Sasha.

Ellie is survived by her siblings Leonardo Carrejo, Hector Carrejo (Luisa), Javier Carrejo, Sukie Carrejo, Margarita Lozano, Olga Flynn (Tom), and Corina Atilano (Jose), family friend Nancy Gill as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Among them, her nieces Dolores Atilano Young (Jason Young) and Cynthia Atilano (Jorge Ballesteros) held a very special place in her heart and were like daughters to her. Ellie’s neighbors and many dear friends who will cherish her memory.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Dionicio Alvarez, Dr. Fong at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Dr. Aloba, Dr. Han, and the nuro staff at Texas Oncology for their unwavering care, compassion, and dedication to Ellie’s health and well-being. The family also wishes to thank the staff at AM Hospice for their professionalism, kindness, and support during this difficult time.

Ellie’s family support team—stood by her every step of the way, encouraging her strength, resilience, and fighting spirit. She was a strong and remarkable woman who was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Ellie was a woman of faith who found comfort and strength in her relationship with God and through the fellowship of the St. Raphael’s community. Her faith sustained her throughout her life and especially during difficult times. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, perseverance, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Martin Funeral Home East, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 5-9 pm with rosary at 7pm. Funeral Mass will be held at 9:30 am Thursday, April 9, 2026 at St. Raphael’s Parish followed by burial at Evergreen East.