Ellen Ruth Jones Prout, age 75, of La Plata, Maryland.

Ellen Jones Prout was born in La Plata, MD to the late Walter and Naomi Jones on November 9, 1939. She departed this life peacefully on July 6, 2015 at George Washington University Hospital.

Ellen was raised in Charles County Maryland. She was educated through the Charles County Public School System and graduated from Bel Alton High School in 1956. It was at Bel Alton High School that she met her husband of fifty years, Thomas Prout.

Ellen believed in education. She graduated from Bowie State Teacher's College and later became an elementary school teacher. Ellen loved her students and faithfully served the Charles County Public School System for over thirty-four years. Even though she was known as the "mean teacher", she was highly respected and loved. After retirement, she enjoyed reacquainting with her former students and took pride when learning of their accomplishments.

Ellen was funny, caring and outspoken. She brought humor to any situation and loved casinos, playing scratch offs, and baking. She was also a proud member of the Busy Bee Social Club. However, her most cherished moments were spending time with her grandchildren. She loved "her girls" and you would often find her at a dance recital, soccer game or random trips to McDonalds.

Ellen had a strong faith in God. She was a lifelong member of Christ Episcopal Church, Port Tobacco Parish. She was a true servant and volunteered with the pantry, teaching Sunday school and being a member of the Hospitality Committee. She believed in attending church faithfully. Even on her worst days she gathered the strength to attend service. She lived by the belief that God was in control and that prayer changes everything! Ellen was well known and loved in her community. She touched the lives of many and will truly be missed.

Ellen leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Thomas Prout; sons Derek Prout, Tyrell Prout; daughter-in-law, Karen Prout; grandchildren Megan Prout, Melanie Prout; sisters, Dorothy Johnson (Robert Johnson-deceased), Ethel Makle (Paul Makle-deceased); brother, Thomas Jones (Geneva Jones-deceased) and an only surviving aunt, Odelle Thomas. She is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jessica Prout, and brother, Vivian Jones. Ellen also leaves to cherish a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and close friends.

Family will receive visitors at Christ Episcopal Church, 110 East Charles Street in La Plata, MD on Friday, July 10, 2015 from 6-9pm. On Saturday, July 11, 2015 viewing will begin at 10:00am and the funeral service will commence at 11:00am followed by the burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery, La Plata, MD. Arrangements provided by Thornton Funeral Home.