In Memoriam: Ellie Byra, Founding Chair of The Boggs Center’s Consumer Advisory Council

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Eleanor K. Byra, “Ellie,” passed away at home earlier this Spring, surrounded by her husband Peter and loving daughter Tian. Her son, Matthew, “Matt,” predeceased her.

Ellie’s advocacy, inspired by Matt as well as her sister Karen, was always focused on more opportunities for life in the community for everyone. Matt was the first student with significant disabilities to be fully included in Hunterdon Central High School, after spending his earlier childhood in a Day Training Program, segregated from the educational system. When Matt graduated from high school, Ellie’s determination created opportunities for him to contribute as a volunteer at Hunterdon Medical Center and Raritan Valley Community College. Building upon the bond with his caregivers, Ellie helped Matt move into his own home, supported by personal and loving relationships, while also addressing his many medical needs.

One of the original founders of Family Support in New Jersey, Ellie was an active member of Family Support Council #5. Her kindness and thoughtfulness complemented her strong advocacy, exemplified by the Annual Tea she hosted for Family Support workers and embedded in her remarks at The Boggs Center’s 20^th Anniversary, “Don’t Forget to Bring the Cookies.”

Generous with her time, Ellie served on endless committees and councils, including as a member of The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, where she chaired the Public Policy Committee; the Board of DRNJ; the Board of PLAN NJ; and countless committees and task forces of the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities.

Ellie was the founding Chair of The Boggs Center’s Consumer Advisory Council. She was deeply influenced by our work, and often credited the Developmental Disabilities Lecture Series, as well as other Boggs Center programs, with helping her to envision, develop, and bring into being a meaningful, valued, and enviable life for Matt.

The Boggs Center extends our condolences to the Byra family and shares our appreciation for her many years of advocacy.