About
Eleanor Baer Obituary
Born and raised in Memphis, Eleanor was the daughter of Eric and Leah Hirsch. She was a proud graduate of the Lausanne School and Sweet Briar College, where she developed a lifelong passion for learning and the arts. A woman of many talents, Eleanor was an accomplished artist, a gifted gardener, and a dedicated community volunteer. She found great joy in cultivating beauty, whether through her enamel and glass art or in her vibrant garden. Eleanor was a longtime member of Temple Israel.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 46 years, Ben Kayser Baer, and her brother, Eugene Hirsch (Eleanor).
Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Julie Hakan (Brian), and her sons, Ben Baer III (Larisa) and Frank Baer (Cindy). She will be deeply missed by her six grandchildren: Eric, Mia, Annabelle, and Lila Baer, and Daniel and Brianna Hakan. She is also survived by her brother, E. Donald Hirsch, and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Eleanor's was a life well-lived, filled with purpose and creativity. A private graveside service will be held for the family. A memorial service will follow on Wednesday, August 27th, at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel at Temple Israel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to Church Health, an organization that provides healthcare to people who have no access to affordable care.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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Toot Fineberg-Buchner
August 26, 2025
Eleanor was such a warm, kind, and generous person in all the gardening circles I knew her in. She was also one of the most hardworking and efficient members as well. She made sure everything was done well and properly. Her beautiful garden was often toured by visiting speakers or participants in The Midsouth Native Plant Conference. She was a pleasure to know, and I am sad to know that she is no longer with all who loved her.
Staff of Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery
August 25, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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5668 Poplar Avenue P.O. Box 17144, Memphis, TN 38119-0885
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