Eleanor C. Massimi, 87, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2022, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was married to the love of her life, the late Andre Massimi. She was a devoted mother to Deborah Higgins (Terrence), Andre Massimi (Michelle) and Nanci Tucci. Loving Gram to Joseph Higgins (Rachel), Matthew Higgins (Kathryn), Megan Mastrone (Andrew), Jade and Melissa Massimi, and Nicholas and Anthony Tucci. GG doted over her great grandchildren Charlotte, Benjamin and Jack Higgins, Lilly and Thomas Higgins, Michael and Frances Mastrone, and Brooklyn Tucci. Eleanor was born in Jersey City to Herbert and Minnie Minkus and spent her childhood in Bogota. She was the youngest sister of the late Joyce Dexter, Elizabeth Hogan, Louise Phillips, Burton Minkus, Frederick Minkus, and Herbert Minkus. Aunt Effie was a favorite aunt to many loving nieces and nephews.

Eleanor raised her family in Teaneck before moving to West Milford and eventually Glen Rock. She had the gift of gab, loved to tell stories, and made friends wherever she went. She worked as a bookkeeper for many years and was a “surrogate Grandma” to countless families. El loved to cook and bake and was famous for her homemade sauerbraten and cheesecake. She enjoyed traveling, especially to the seashore and the casino. She loved singing, painting, gardening, sewing, the occasional Jack Daniels, and spending time with her family.

To livestream Eleanor’s funeral mass please visit: https://youtu.be/K_e4dPPu5Lk

Donations in Eleanor’s name may be made to: The National Down Syndrome Society by visiting give.ndss.org or by calling 800-221-4602.