Eileen Pankoke

Born and raised in New York, a place Elieen never stopped championing as the best, always stating “everything is better in New York”. She carried the vibrant pulse of the city in her soul.

Despite the challenges life threw her way, including being widowed at a young age while raising two small daughters, Eileen remained unwavering. She put herself through school, becoming a dedicated social worker in the mental health field. Her strength, humor, and compassion touched countless lives, both professionally and personally. Eileen powered through everything life threw at her. Beating breast cancer three times and did it all without complaint. Her positive attitude and resilient heart defined her.

She lived in her cherished home for over 54 years, where she built a life rich in laughter, music, family, and unforgettable memories. A true lover of the arts, Eileen filled her world with music: Neil Diamond, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Johnny Mathis, Carole King, The Beach Boys, The Mamas & the Papas, Cat Stevens, The Moody Blues, and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons were her constant companions. Her home always had a record playing. She had a soft spot for Bravo TV, TLC favorites like Dr. Pimple Popper, Honey Boo Boo, and 1000-lb Sisters, finding joy and humor in the everyday. Eileen loved to read James Patterson novels, always had a dog by her side, and never stopped talking about her favorite suits and heels from her younger days; always polished, always stylish.

Travel was one of Eileen’s greatest joys. A trip to Thailand stood out: she loved the people, the culture, and especially the food. Closer to home, she was deeply involved in the Red Hat Society, a proud member of two lively groups, embracing life with flair and laughter. Eileen also worked at Catholic Charities for many years.

Family was her heartbeat. A devoted grandmother, Eileen attended every choir concert, sporting event, and special moment in her grandchildren’s lives, always showing up, always cheering. When the grandkids would stay the night at her house, they stayed up past their bedtime and would call it “late night ladies.” Then followed by a morning trip to Dunkin for coffee Coollatas.

She loved holidays, especially Thanksgiving, and always left with the leftovers. Christmas Eve was sacred, the grandkids always insisted my she stayed over their house on Xmas eve even as adults

She met the late Fritz early in life, and though their marriage lasted only a short time (1965–1972) due to tragedy, their story left an enduring imprint on her heart.

Eileen is survived by her daughters: Stephanie Pankoke and Tracey Cooperson; granddaughters: Holly (Matt) Rembish and Lauren Kiffer; sister: Jeanne (James) Antona; nieces: Danielle Ryniker, Jamie Shurbert, and Susan Torsiello; nephew: Robert Antona; sister in law: Isabela Niebuhr.

Come celebrate 80 years on Sunday July 27, from 2pm-3pm at Sweeney Funeral Home, 478 Cooper Street, Beverly NJ 08010, where there will be a 3pm service.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to, Susan G Komen Breast Cancer- Foundation www.komen.org/, Michael J Fox Foundation- www.michaeljfox.org/, or Samaritan Hospice. samaritannj.org/giving/donate-now/