Eleanor M. (Santillo) Jones

Eleanor M. (Santillo) Jones, 79, of Rome, passed away peacefully at St. Luke’s Home on Saturday, March 7, 2026, after a long battle with dementia. She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing. Born on January 27, 1947, in Rome, New York, to the late Pasquale “Pat” and Norena “Nellie” Coccagnia Santillo, Eleanor was devoted to her Catholic faith and was confirmed at St. John’s Church in Rome.

Eleanor’s greatest joy was her family. She was fiercely loyal and deeply loving, cherishing every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. Known for her strong work ethic, she often held multiple jobs to provide for those she loved, taking pride in her efforts and never shying away from hard work. Those who knew her recognized her remarkable toughness; even during her illness, she remained strong and resilient until the end. Her warm smile and kind greetings left a lasting impression on everyone she met, and the love she gave and the memories she created will be treasured always.

She is survived by her beloved companion of 47 years, Lester Doolen; her children and their families, Ralph Santillo and daughter-in-law Heather Santillo of Syracuse and their children Brandon and Michael Santillo, Melissa Highers and son-in-law Shannon Highers of New Hartford and their children Taylor and Lexi Highers, and Gioia Wishhart and her children Ken Irrazzairy, Stephanie and Brendon Wishhart; as well as her great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Patricia Ludwig, and two cherished friends and caretakers, Patty Morreale and her sister Chris Kellsey.

Eleanor was predeceased by her siblings, Nunzio (Nick) Santillo, Pasquale (Patsy) Santillo, Joseph (Joe) Santillo, Diane Carlberg, and Douglass (Dougy) Santillo.