05/27/2026
With profound sadness, the Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons (NVRC) shares the passing of Wanda “Kay” Ellis — a longtime Board Member, mentor, advocate, and one of the individuals whose leadership helped shape NVRC and strengthen the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Kay’s legacy is not measured simply by years of service or titles held. Her legacy lives in the people she encouraged, the leaders she mentored, the friendships she built, and the community she helped strengthen. Through her dedicated service to NVRC and her work advancing disability inclusion, she believed deeply in creating a world where Deaf and hard of hearing individuals had equal opportunity, communication access, and a voice.
Looking through years of memories and photographs, one thing becomes clear: Kay was not standing on the sidelines of NVRC’s history — she was helping create it. She helped guide our organization through important moments, welcomed and encouraged new leaders, and shared wisdom and compassion that left a lasting impact on those around her.
Those who knew Kay remember more than her leadership. They remember her warmth, humor, kindness, and genuine care for others. She had a way of making people feel welcomed, valued, and supported. She gave freely of her time, knowledge, and heart.
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing community has lost a remarkable advocate, and NVRC has lost a leader, mentor, and friend whose influence will continue to live on through the organization and community she helped build.
Thank you, Kay, for your service, your friendship, and the lasting legacy you leave behind.
May your memory be a blessing. ❤️🤟🏻🙏🏼
NVRC
