Obituary of Eleanor Theresa Smigelsky

Eleanor Theresa Smigelsky, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to so many passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, at the age of 96. She was surrounded by the love she fostered so effortlessly. She joins her cherished late husband Paul Raymond Smigelsky, who was her one true love.  Born on August 22, 1928, in Elizabeth, NJ, Eleanor was the daughter of Zenobia Rudaitis and Boleslew Kulesa. Many will remember her from the years She and Ray were the owners of the Sunset Inn. A warm tavern that was a center point of their dear community.  

Eleanor is survived by her children and their partners, Carol and Les, Bob and Cathy, and Michelle and Amy; grandchildren Jennifer and Steve, Devon, Ian, Aniko, and Alexis; and her great-grandchildren, Eleanor and Claire. Her family was the center of her world, and she will be deeply missed by her entire family, whose lives she touched with her kindness.

Eleanor was a selflessly loving person, generous and kind. She accepted each one of us for who we are and took all the craziness we brought her way in stride. Our friends and loved ones that we brought into her ‘nest’ quickly became her family. She prayed for us all.  Her love knew no bounds and was offered to all unconditionally.

Outside of her deep family devotion, Eleanor loved reading, watching birds feed at her window, and puzzles of all kinds.  She loved sightseeing, traveling and visiting museums. She was a scrabble master like no other and enjoyed winning nearly every game until her last days. 

The family would like to invite friends and loved ones to celebrate Eleanor’s life with them. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9^th from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Martin Funeral Home, located at 1761 Route 31, Clinton NJ 08809. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday, January 10^th at 10:30 AM at the Immaculate Conception Church, located at 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale NJ. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, which was dear to Eleanor’s heart. Please Click Here to Donate

Although Eleanor’s passing leaves a profound emptiness in our hearts, the memory of her compassion, and gentle dignity will continue to inspire and guide each of us as we carry on her legacy.