Elinor Leonardo

Elinor (Trucano) Leonardo, 92, died peacefully at home on Sunday, October 19, 2025. A lifelong resident of Vineland, she graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1950, followed by a bachelor's degree in education from Glassboro College. Prior to her retirement, Elinor worked in the Vineland Public School System for over 20 years, spending most of her career at Winslow Elementary School teaching fourth graders or serving as a reading specialist. Elly loved reading books both to her students and as part of her own pastime.
She enjoyed being with her grandchildren, traveling the countryside with her husband Junior, playing cards, and cooking for many a family & friend. Elly was known to always have some sort of game prepared to entertain the group after a holiday meal.
She is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law, Michael & Maria Leonardo, Paul Leonardo, Jeff & Caroline Leonardo; six grandchildren; John, Jena, Toni, Nick, Joe and Gabrielle; sister and brother-in-law, Drs. Tressa (Trucano) Brown & Tom Brown; and brother-in-law, John Polizzi. Elinor is predeceased by her husband Anthony Leonardo Jr.; parents, Peter and Mary (Morello) Trucano; brother Donald Trucano; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Joseph and Annie Leonardo; and sister-in-law Lena (Leonardo).
A church visitation will be held from 9:45 to 10:45 AM on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, followed by a funeral mass at 11 AM at Christ the Good Shepherd Parish-Church of St. Isidore the Farmer, 1655 Magnolia Road, Vineland. Interment will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Vineland.
Donations in memory of Elly can be made to: St. Jude’s (www.stjude.org) or as mom put it any other charity that benefits children.
Arrangements are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland.
To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com