Eleanor Reid Compton, the youngest of seven children, was born on September 15, 1922, in Eureka, North Carolina. Her early years on a farm, under the loving care of her parents, Frank and Lillie Reid, instilled in her the core values of family, hard work, and generosity. Her older siblings, all deceased, Welford, John Hardy, Nathaniel, Ezzie Mae, Helen, and Glennie, and one nephew, Durothy-also deceased, adored her and showered her with love.

After graduating high school a year early, she left North Carolina for better opportunities in  Norfolk, Virginia. While in Norfolk, she took business classes at Norfolk Community College (Little State), now Norfolk State University. She also developed her creative talents by learning more about fashion and design, working part-time as a window trimmer in a local department store. When World War II broke out, she worked for the Norfolk Naval Shipyard to support the war effort. Despite some challenges, she enjoyed her time in Norfolk, where she loved the beach and made many life-long friends.

Always seeking better opportunities, Eleanor moved to Washington, D.C., when the war ended. She worked in a few different jobs, met many friends, and co-founded a social club, the Dukettes, affectionately named after the great Duke Ellington.  The Dukettes hosted galas and fundraisers to benefit community and civil rights causes.  Eleanor eventually worked in the human resources department at the National Security Agency (NSA), where she onboarded staff new to the Washington area.

In 1952, she met and married Samuel E. Compton, Jr. They celebrated 62 years of marriage until he died in 2014. Eleanor and Samuel, whom she always called “Compton,” were thrilled to welcome their only child, Helen, into their family.

Eleanor fearlessly embarked on a new journey after dedicating her time raising her daughter. On the same day Helen started kindergarten, she entered the Communication Workers of America (CWA) business office, integrating it with her courage and determination. Eleanor Compton was a trailblazer, never shying away from a challenge.

Eleanor was a devoted St.Mary’s Episcopal Church member in Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C., for over 70 years and an active member of The Women’s National Democratic Club for four decades.

Eleanor’s hobbies and passions included photography, sewing, crafting, and decorating.  She had a discerning eye that could make any environment or person look beautiful.

As a District of Columbia resident for 80 years, Eleanor was a dedicated community leader. She was a pillar of the Takoma Community in Ward 4, always encouraging residents to use their voices and votes to improve the community. Her dedication and influence have left an indelible mark on the community, for which we are forever grateful.

Eleanor was a force of nature, known and loved by many for her kindness, wisdom, and advice. Her deep faith in God propelled her through good times and bad. Her love for her family and friends was unwavering, and it continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration. If she loved you, you knew it.

She is survived by her beloved daughter Helen, her cherished granddaughter Lauren, a special niece, Trina Harrod, special friends Bruce Butler and John Johnson, and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

In place of flowers, Eleanor requested that tributes or donations be sent to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Foggy Bottom, 728 23rd Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20037, in her memory.

St. Mary's Episcopal Church-Foggy Bottom is one block south of the Foggy Bottom Metro Line, which is the most convenient way to arrive. If driving, the church has complimentary parking passes for George Washington University's adjacent lots and will provide directions to those lots.

For family and friends unable to join the service in person, please click the Zoom link below to watch. 

Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81952391783?pwd=iZKgJH6y4wNMSMHUQ8q7tObX77fh9M.1
Meeting ID: 819 5239 1783
Passcode: 3Az9SG

 

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