Mrs. Eleanor Lorraine Bellerose

Mrs. Eleanor Lorraine Bellerose (née Marion), age 98, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026 with family by her side, in The Villages, FL. Born August 20, 1927, in Cohoes , NY, Eleanor's life was marked by devotion to her family, a love of the outdoors, and a spirit of community that touched all who knew her.

Growing up in Cohoes and later making Clifton Park, NY her home she built a loving family with her husband Francis. Together they raised their children and created a home filled with warmth and laughter. Thirty-seven years ago, Eleanor and Francis moved to The Villages, Florida, where they embraced a new chapter surrounded by friends and sunshine.

Eleanor is survived by her devoted children: Virginia Utiguard of Okanagan, WA; David Bellerose of The Villages, FL; Marie Ellen Poland of Midland, TX; Susan Ward and her husband Doug of Schenectady, NY; Julie Ann Lindner and her husband Jim of Spotsylvania, VA; Cathleen Bellerose and her life partner Peter of Palm Coast, FL; Jo'Ann Godshall and her husband David of LaMoyne, PA; and Ruth Hartley and her husband Rich of Clifton Park, NY. Her legacy continues through her 24 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband of 61 years, Francis Bellerose; twin children Mary and Joseph; sisters Pearl Jolicoeur and Dorothy Breski; brother Armond Marion; and six grandchildren.

Eleanor's zest for life was evident in everything she did. She found joy in the outdoors-hiking wooded trails, camping under the stars, snowmobiling across winter landscapes, riding four-wheelers with family members young and old, and gardening. She was also an avid golfer who relished time spent on the green. At home, Eleanor's creativity shone through in her sewing, needlepoint, and quilt projects-each stitch a testament to her patience and care.

Her kindness was legendary among those who had the pleasure to know her. Eleanor offered a warm welcome to friends old and new alike. Her gentle nature made every gathering brighter. Family gatherings were especially dear to Eleanor's heart; she delighted in the laughter of grandchildren and great grandchildren visiting or playing nearby. The wonder brought by each new generation filled her with pride and happiness.

Beyond family life, Eleanor was deeply involved in her community. She played an active role in the Knights of Columbus Women's Auxiliary where she forged lasting friendships through service. As a member of the New Yorkers Club in The Villages, she celebrated shared roots with fellow transplants from up north. Her faith guided much of what she did-she served as a Eucharistic Minister with dedication and grace.

Eleanor's life was defined by compassion for others-a trait that inspired those around her to lead with kindness themselves. Her legacy lives on not only through the generations she nurtured but also through the countless lives she touched along the way.

May Eleanor Lorraine Bellerose be remembered for the love she gave so freely-the laughter shared on summer days outdoors or quiet moments spent sewing gifts for loved ones-and may those memories bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.

A viewing will be held at Beyers Funeral Home, Lady Lake, FL March 5th from 2 - 4 pm. Funeral mass will be held at St Timothy Catholic Church, The Villages, FL, on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 10:00am followed by interment at the Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL at 12:30pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Saddlebrook Recreation Center, The Villages from 3:30- 6:30 pm.