Eleanor A. Burns, 98, of Dighton, MA, and formerly of Pawtucket, RI, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love, with her family by her side, on Thursday, November 14, 2024. She was the wife of the late Edward Joseph Burns. Born in Woonsocket, RI, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Anna K. (Boyle) MacIsaac. Eleanor lived most of her life in Pawtucket and spent her summers in Touisset Point (Warren) where the Burns family was part of a close-knit community for over 50 years.

A 1945 graduate of Bryant College, Eleanor dedicated over 40 years to Manhattan Housing Specialists, retiring in 2018. She was a longtime volunteer at the former Memorial Hospital in Pawtucket, primarily in the Gift Shop.

Affectionately known as Mom, Grandma, or 'Aunt Ellie' to nearly everyone who knew her, Eleanor's life was a testament to selflessness, never seeking recognition or accolades for her countless acts of generosity.

After losing her beloved husband Eddy at a young age, Eleanor embraced her role as the heart of her family with unwavering love and strength. She was the steadfast matriarch, the one who made every gathering special—no family party was complete without her famous Delmonico potatoes and shrimp dip. Her home was always open, not just to family but to friends and neighbors who became like family. Summers spent in Touisset Point with a house full of grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she welcomed the chaos with grace and an enduring smile.

She never missed a moment to cheer on her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, faithfully attending their games, concerts, and milestones with pride and happiness. Eleanor found joy in recognizing the positive in everyone and made those around her feel seen and valued. She also cherished her extended family roots in Nova Scotia, Canada—the birthplace of her parents—and loved spending time there with loved ones (despite the cats).

Her 1945 Bryant College Ledger quote, "Good humor is the heart of the soul," beautifully foreshadowed her radiant character, blending kindness with a sharp wit that brought warmth and laughter to every room.

A talented knitter, Eleanor's hands were rarely idle, and her creations warmed not just bodies but hearts, as she often completed her projects, as well as those of friends and neighbors alike. She was also the ultimate babysitter, offering her time and care with unmatched love and patience.

Eleanor's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered for her compassion, her unparalleled warmth, and her ability to turn any gathering into a celebration of love and connection. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her children, Dr. David Burns and his wife Debbie, Ann-Marie Murphy and her husband Kevin, Alan Burns and his wife Lori, Suzanne Connors and her husband Dave, and Michael Burns and his wife Stefany. She also leaves her daughter-in-law Esther Zuraw Burns and her grandchildren, David, Jr. "DJ", Cailie, Kristen, Sean, Colin, Cassie, Shannon, Mackenzie, Megan, and Owen. She was the proud great-grandmother of Savannah, Lilly, Devin, David, III "Tripp", Colin, Jr. "CJ", and Liv. Eleanor also leaves her sister Lorraine Lonergan. She was the mother of the late Edward "Ted" Burns, Jr. and the sister of the late Dr. Alexander MacIsaac, Irene Lynch, and Noel MacIsaac.

Eleanor's family and friends will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, November 25th at 10:00 AM in Saint Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. Burial will follow in Mount Saint Mary Cemetery, Pawtucket. Visiting hours Sunday, November 24th from 2:00 - 5:00 PM in the Manning-Heffern-O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate gifts in memory of Eleanor be made to HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care , 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 in gratitude for their care.