Queen Creek, AZ - Eleanore O'Donnell

July 19, 1930 - August 29, 2024

Eleanore O'Donnell, age 94, of Queen Creek, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 19, 1930, in New York, she was the fourth of five children born to Harry and Claire Woolnough.

Eleanore married Walter E. O'Donnell in 1955, and together they raised seven children, sharing a deep love for camping and adventure. Their travels across the U.S. with their children were filled with joy and discovery. Eleanore's artistic talent was a natural gift; she delighted in sewing outfits for school, holidays, and creating homemade Halloween costumes that always garnered attention.

Upon Dad's retirement from the New York State School District, the couple embarked on a new chapter in Bandera, Texas. There, they embraced rural life, raising pigs, chickens, and goats on their few acres of land. After Dad's passing, Eleanore moved west to Arizona to be near her children, where she continued to find joy in walks, listening to talk radio, feeding birds, gardening, and caring for those around her. Family gatherings, whether for meals, holidays, or birthdays, were particularly special to her.

Eleanore was preceded in death by her husband of 30 years, Walter E. O'Donnell; daughters Leslie Lawson and Lenore 'Tinky' Miranda; son Gary E. O'Donnell; and grandson William Lawson.

She is survived by her sister Bernice Whelan; children Lorraine O'Donnell, Loretta O'Donnell (John Honeyager), Laura O'Donnell (Bill Stephens), son-in-law John Miranda and son Rusty O'Donnell (Michelle). She is also survived by her grandchildren Kari Ann Castor (Kenny), Christen Miranda (Lisa), Thomas Cavin, Christopher Cavin, Walter Miranda, and Bernadette Mendoza, along with twelve great-grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren.

The family is profoundly grateful to Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate care and support during Eleanore's final journey.

Eleanore's loving spirit, exuberance, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed but forever remembered.