ELLEN BRIGGS

ELLEN LINDNER BRIGGS  
Beloved wife and mother, cherished daughter, sibling, niece, and in-law, and treasured friend of many, died on Sunday, November 13, 2016. A determined and life-affirming tug-of-war with cancer followed her diagnosis in April of 2002.Born on September 21, 1965 in Norfolk, VA, El, a "Navy brat", she grew up mostly in Arlington, VA. She graduated from the National Cathedral School and Mary Washington College. Looking for a job after college, she charmed her way into an interview with Philip Bermingham during a sibling photo shoot and shortly thereafter was hired to be his assistant. She learned the art of portrait photography under his tutelage.After several years of living in Fairfax, VA, Ellen moved to Baltimore to be closer to her sweetheart Todd, whom she'd met at Dewey Beach. They married ("The smartest thing I ever did."), and while living in Rogers Forge she gave birth to their daughter, Samantha ("The best thing I ever did."). Eventually she settled in Towson with Todd and Sam. Following her job as a photographer's assistant, El had a short stint as a pharmaceuticals sales rep, worked for Roma Moulding and later Irvin Simon Photographers, in addition to picking up the occasional odd job and her volunteer work. She founded Ellen Briggs Photography, specializing in children's portrait photography shot outdoors and photographed until her illness forced her to stop. In addition to Todd and Sam, she is survived by her parents, John and Shelley Henderson; three sisters, Linda, Candace and Sylvia; extended family, the Ya-Yas, all her B'more crew, and a gazillion friends the world over.A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 2, 2016 at 11 a.m., at The Church of the Redeemer (Episcopal) in Baltimore with reception to follow at L'Hirondelle Club in Ruxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HopeWell Cancer Support (hopewellcancersupport.org).