Eleanor M Gitto
Eleanor M Gitto
Eleanor never hesitated to offer her time, her home, or her wisdom. Affectionately known as “Aunt El,” she was always on the phone catching up with friends or lending an ear, usually starting with “What’s new”. Known for her constant presence and calm spirit, those closest to her say they never once saw her angry. Her energy was unmatched. Eleanor was incredibly active well into her later years: swimming, doing water aerobics, line dancing, and caring for the half dozen horses she proudly owned. She had a deep love for animals, especially her cats and horses.
A skilled cook and baker, she was known for her lemon meringue pie, angel food cake, and perfectly baked chicken. Her kitchen was always open, and her home was the heart of every celebration. Pool parties, picnics, BBQs, and even volleyball in the pool. She loved the Carol Burnett Show, Doc Martin, and watching the Mummers Parade, a nod to her proud Philadelphia roots. Her faith was important to her, and she gave back by teaching CCD at St. Joseph’s Church. Eleanor also had a love for travel, from trips to Italy to camping in the mountains of New York. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Eleanor was the kind of person who made everyone feel like family. She helped raise her foster son, Howard Depue and enjoyed babysitting her cousin Danny Sukis, treating them with the same love and devotion she gave to all those close to her.
It was at a cousin’s wedding reception where she met the love of her life, John Gitto. That encounter blossomed into a 42-year marriage filled with family, friendship, and countless memories.
Eleanor is survived by her husband: John; children: John III (Karen) Gitto, Cindy (Sam) Phipps, and Joseph (Gail) Gitto; grandchildren: Elizabeth (Ryan) Burchman and Evan Gitto; nieces: Eileen and Patty Kelly and nephew Joseph Kelly.
Come celebrate 96 years on Thursday July 24, 2025 from 10am-11am at Corpus Christi Church, 11 South Sunset Rd., Willingboro NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11am. Interment immediately to follow at Monument Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: nationalbreastcancer.org
2 Comments
thank you so much for the years my family was able to share with you and John and your family.
You are missed.
I first met Eleanor and husband, John in the Corpus Christi Church choir. She was such a dear lady and became a good friend. She’d call once in a while to catch up and I always loved our chats. Eleanor was truly a special gal and we will miss her presence. Go with God, Eleanor.