Eleanor L. (Smith) Galligan 82, Of New Bedford, Ma, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at home on Feb 29, 2024 after a long courageous battle with cancer.
She was the daughter of Alexander J and Marjorie M (Alexander) Smith, whom she lovingly cared for. She was raised in Rochester, Ma. Ellie was the owner of Elvira J’s in Fairhaven for several years. She retired from Acushnet Company, was a 1955 graduate of Waterman School and a 1959 graduate of New Bedford Vocational.
Ellie was especially proud of her 6 beautiful girls whom she raised to be strong and independent women. Donna Jacques (Norman), Betty Walker (Kenny), Leona Andre (Tony), Christine Galligan, Debra Garabedian, Tracie Martin (David), 15 Grandchildren, 21 Great-Grandchildren and her Godchild Sherry Thomas (James).
She was extremely talented at many things, a wonderful cook, seamstress, and loved to crochet. She was known for making many matching clothes for the girls and for donating many of her handmade items to the VA and other organizations. She totally remodeled an Old Farmhouse as her home. She made and sold Shabby Chic Furniture, upcycling before it became popular.
She leaves her siblings Cecelia Hall (Rick) and Marjorie Higgenbotham, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her siblings Joseph A. Smith and Laura E. Lebeau
Arrangements by Rock Funeral Home. Private burial at Acushnet Cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Friends of The Rochester Council on Aging.
