Attorney Elaine M Pourinski

Elaine M. Pourinski, a distinguished attorney and dedicated advocate, passed into eternal rest on June 4, 2024, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was 69 years old. Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on November 20, 1954, Elaine was the cherished daughter of the late Dorothy (Fannon) and Anthony Pourinski.

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Elaine went on to earn her Juris Doctor from Western New England School of Law, embarking on a career that would see her champion the rights of the underserved and advocate for justice in various capacities. She served as a public defender for the State of Massachusetts and later established a private practice in Northampton, where she continued to defend and guide those in need.

In her early years, Elaine's commitment to service was exemplified by her tenure in the Peace Corps in Bogota, Colombia, where she oversaw the care of severely malnourished children. Her dedication to her community was unwavering, as evidenced by her legal guardianship work for those unable to care for themselves.

Elaine's love for the natural world shone through her avid birdwatching. She was a respected member of numerous birding associations and contributed her time and expertise to the Hampshire Bird Club as a board member. Her passion for tennis and the great outdoors brought her joy and camaraderie through the many groups she joined in Easthampton, Massachusetts. She loved the ocean and would often visit Plum Island in Newburyport Mass when visiting her sister.

A fervent supporter of human rights, Elaine was an active member of Amnesty International and the National Lawyers Guild. Her life was one of travel, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the ocean. She leaves behind her beloved cat, Darcy, and a legacy of compassion and activism.

Elaine is lovingly remembered by her sister, Gayle Brady and her husband Henry; her nephew, Michael Brady; her niece, Meaghan Zlindra-Short and her husband Clark; her great-niece, Melody Allen; her great-nephew, Rowan Zlindra-Short; her brother, Stephen Pourinski and his wife Frances; and her adored niece and nephew, Andrew and Jenna. She is predeceased by her parents and her niece, Caitlyn Brady.

In accordance with Elaine's wishes, there will be no funeral services. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date to honor her memory. Elaine's altruistic spirit led her to donate her body to the UMass Medical School in Worcester for scientific research. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elaine's name to Safe Passage, an organization close to her heart, at 76 Carlon Drive, Northampton, Massachusetts 01060.