Obituary of Ellen Hunt

Ellen A. Hunt (nee Shea) Ellen Hunt, of Manhasset, N.Y. passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at the age of 92. Born and raised in the Bronx, N.Y. to Ellen (Dwyer) and John Shea, she was one of four siblings and the only girl. Fun loving and smart, Ellen graduated from Villa Maria Academy and Fordham University. She also attended Julliard to study piano at which she excelled. Music was the gift that Ellen brought to every event and to every memory. Her extended family consisting of many nieces and nephews along with their friends were lucky to gather around the piano and sing along to any and all types of music but especially her heritage of Irish music. She loved a good party and all were welcome. Ellen inherited the role of matriarch of the Shea family – a role she cherished. For many years, Ellen served up Christmas to family and friends. The highlight of the Christmas season was gathering around the piano to sing The Twelve Days of Christmas. She created magnificent memories for all. In addition to her musical talent, Ellen was a gifted conversationalist. She exuded warmth and could make you feel at home within minutes. She was known for being friendly, gracious and kind. She had a ready smile and eyes that twinkled with laughter. She had a way of making everyone feel special all of the time. Ellen taught for many years on Long Island and in Westchester. She worked alongside her lifetime friend, Betty Gallo. Ellen and Betty met their husbands while teaching and the four remained close. Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, James (Jim) Hunt. She is survived by her daughter, Anne Hunt Fink and her husband J.G., and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Anne and Ellen had an extraordinary relationship and a special bond as mother and daughter. She is greatly missed but the legacy she leaves in the hearts and minds of those who loved her lives on. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 11 at 10:15 am at St. Mary’s Church in Manhasset, N.Y. A memorial service will be held at a later date.