Eleanor Jean Westerhold

Eleanor "Elley" Jean Austin Westerhold of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Elley was born on November 29, 1952, in Waltham, Massachusetts, to the late Arthur and Joan Austin. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her kindness, vibrant sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to both her family and her country.

Elley proudly "bled red, white, and blue" her entire life. As a military brat, she traveled and lived in places such as Okinawa and France. Following in those footsteps, she became a military wife to a member of the United States Coast Guard, where she raised a blended and loving family.

Throughout her life, Elley held numerous civilian positions within the military sector, where she found purpose and pride in her work. She especially cherished her role as Managing Merchandiser with the USCG Exchange System, and also spent time working with Blackwater. Known for treating everyone with respect and dignity, Elley was never afraid to speak her mind, offer honest advice, or stand up for what she believed in. She became a trusted mentor, a surrogate sister, and a supportive friend to many new transfers and colleagues throughout her career.

In retirement, Elley continued to pour her patriotic spirit and love into her family, especially in her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved taking photos and found great joy in capturing and preserving cherished memories with those she held most dear.

Elley is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, James "Jay" Westerhold; her daughter Joanne Ciccotelli and her late son-in-law Michael R. Ciccotelli; her grandchildren Michael J. Ciccotelli and great-grandson Michael Kai Ciccotelli, Joseph A. Ciccotelli and his wife Janelle Ciccotelli, and great-grandsons Joseph J. Ciccotelli and Miles A. Ciccotelli. She is also survived by her son James P. Knox and his wife Michelle, and their children: James E. Knox and his fiancée Katherine Swan, and Kaitlyn M. Sargent and her husband Taylor Sargent, along with great-granddaughter, Blair M. Sargent. John M. Knox and granddaughter Persephanie A. Knox, daughter Autumn and her husband Sean Roe and granddaughter Ashli Beckmann, son James R. Westerhold, son Scott Westerhold and granddaughter Samantha Westerhold. She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Jo Ann Arciola and brother-in-law Sam of Connecticut; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Eric and Mary Westerhold, and Brian Westerhold; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Joan Austin, and her brother, Edward "Eddie" Austin.

In accordance with her wishes, a private service will be held at a later time for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Eleanor Westerhold.

Elley will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her patriotism warmth, laughter, and enduring love will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched.