MICHAEL BARRETT ELEFANTE

ELEFANTE, Michael Barrett Age 81, of Westport and Winchester, Massachusetts, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, surrounded by family. He is survived by his loving wife of over 42 years, Louise (Sawyer) Elefante; four children: Mark B. Elefante and wife, Amy Selinger of Lexington, Amy Elefante Bedi and husband, Vivek of Westport, Connecticut, Peter S. Elefante and wife, Erin of Hingham and Jeffrey P. Elefante and wife, Liz of Charlestown; two brothers: Jeffrey P. Elefante and wife, Catherine Satterlee of Washington, D.C. and Carl Elefante and wife, Adriana of Tacoma Park, Maryland; and nine grandchildren: Hannah, Julia, Sonali, Pooja, William, Blake, Christopher, Thomas, and Casey; along with many nieces and nephews. Mike lived life fully and with grace and determination. Beyond his many professional accomplishments in his legal and fiduciary practice, Mike's greatest joy was his family (affectionately known as "the herd"), to whom he gave unfaltering, unconditional love. Mike had a gift for engaging with all intently and empathetically. A stoic man with a deep core and a booming voice, he had a twinkle in his eye, an infectious laugh, and a slapstick sense of humor. He loved travel and adventure; a recent trip to Italy with the whole family was a particular source of delight. His beautiful relationship with his devoted wife, Louise, and their trademark teamwork were a source of strength, particularly while navigating Mike's Parkinson's disease. Born in Fort Wayne, IN and raised in New Providence, NJ, Mike was the eldest son of the late Michael A. and Jean L. (Harris) Elefante. Mike lived in Winchester for many years prior to relocating to Westport. He graduated magna cum laude from Syracuse University (Phi Beta Kappa) and Harvard Law School (Law Review). Mike spent his entire professional career at Hemenway & Barnes in Boston, where he provided steady guidance and friendship to countless colleagues and clients, and served as Managing Partner. Mike had a long tenure on the Board of Directors at Greater Boston Legal Services and was especially proud to be involved in the purchase of its building, to ensure reliable access to legal services for the least fortunate. Mike loved Westport, a cherished family gathering place. He could be found sitting on the Howland House porch, deep in conversation about politics, books, food, travel and life; playing with grandchildren on the beach; gracefully body surfing in the Atlantic; tossing a tennis ball with his beloved dog, Cosmo or playing golf at Acoaxet. Having learned to play later in life, he was never satisfied with his game, but one good shot would elicit his signature grin and keep him coming back. An annual spring golf trip with family and friends produced legendary stories. After retirement, Mike pursued his love of painting with gusto, enrolling in classes at the Massachusetts College of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts. His joyful, bright colors brought a new perspective to his subjects and his passion created contentment and community. He exhibited locally and participated in the South Coast Artists Open Studio Tour in 2022, donating proceeds to Our Sisters' School in New Bedford. With Mike's passing, our world has lost a bright light and gentle soul. He leaves a lasting legacy of love, grace, and joy. A Celebration of Life will be planned for the fall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation, Greater Boston Legal Services or Our Sisters' School.

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