Eleanor Dolores Marsteller, a beacon of generosity and warmth, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Riverside Hospital in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 87. Born on June 25, 1938, in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, she was the beloved daughter of William and Catherine Garze.
For five decades, Eleanor called Newport News home, deeply rooted in her community as a lifelong member of St. George’s Episcopal Church and the Denbigh Lions Club. Her hands were rarely still, as she poured love into every stitch of the countless beanie caps she knitted for NICU babies and cancer patients, embodying her profound desire to comfort others. Beyond her crafting, Eleanor found joy in the simple pleasures of reading, cheering on sports teams, and, above all, cherishing moments with her loved ones, including her delightful “fur” great-grandchildren.
Eleanor’s life was a testament to selfless giving. Whether through her continuous donations to beloved charities, the handmade caps given to Mary Immaculate Hospital, or her unwavering dedication to the Denbigh Lions Club and her church, she consistently offered her time and support. Her family was undoubtedly the heart of her world. With immense pride, she would “show off” photos of her only granddaughter, Kayla, turning every new acquaintance into a friend through the joyful sharing of her life story and family’s adventures. She particularly relished her role as “babysitter” to her great-granddog Remi, ensuring he started each day with a special scrambled egg breakfast.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, William and Catherine Garze; her infant brother; her daughter, Tara Covert; and her dear lifelong friend, Rose Marie.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, Clyde Marsteller; her granddaughter, Kayla Covert (Mitchell); her son-in-law, Roger Covert; her brother-in-law, Floyd Marsteller Sr. (Barbara); her sister-in-law, Bonnie (Dan); and her nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a visitation on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. George’s Episcopal Church, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. A committal service will take place at Peninsula Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Eleanor’s honor to St. George’s Episcopal Church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Paws of Honor.
3 Comments
I am so sorry to hear of Ellie’s passing. She was a wonderful lady.
Hugs,
Pam Camblin
I know we didn’t keep in touch but I’ll always remember when they would come back home to Mahanoy City for a visit. I always hung out at Aunt Catherine and Uncle Bill’s house just to be with Cousin Eleanor. Love to the rest of the family. She will be missed.
I have fond memories of Elly from our days in San Antonio Texas in the 60s. She and Clyde were our good friends and we are sorry to hear of Clyde being without her now may you memories of Elly fulfill your days ahead.