Ellen (Coughlin) Dee

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday morning from 8:30-10:00 at the Alexander F. Thomas and Sons Funeral Home 45 Common Street Walpole followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St Marys Church Foxboro at 11:00.  Interment at St Marys Cemetery Foxboro, relatives and friends invited.  

Ellen “Ellie” Dee, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loving family on July 22, 2023, in Foxboro, MA. Born on October 17, 1951, in Brighton, MA, Ellie, as she was fondly known, lived a life full of love, service, and faith, touching countless lives with her selfless spirit and nurturing heart.

Ellie is survived by her devoted husband, William Dee, her five children – Michael, Michelle, William, Danielle, and Christina, and her nine cherished grandchildren – Jordan, Victoria, Michael, James, Ty, Max, Zoe, Meah, and Will. She also leaves behind her siblings – Paul, Geraldine, Marie, Jeanne, Thomas, Phyllis, Anne, Patricia, and Alicia. She was predeceased by her beloved brother, Daniel. 

A graduate of the Holy Ghost Hospital in Cambridge, Ellie's passion for helping others guided her into a fulfilling career in nursing. She served with compassion and dedication at Pondville and Norwood Hospital, always going above and beyond to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of her patients. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life and deeply into her community. She was an active member of the St. Mary's Community in Foxboro, where she also served as a CCD teacher, instilling in young minds the values of faith and compassion.

Ellie's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a Women's Sober House. As the owner and director, she provided a safe and supportive space for women battling addiction, helping them reclaim their lives and restore their dignity. She also participated in the Fresh Air Fund, opening her home and heart to children from New York during the summer. Ellie was a Girl Scout Leader, shaping young girls into confident and responsible young women.

Ellie was a woman of many interests. She found joy in the simplest things in life – the sound of the ocean waves, the beauty of her garden, the pages of a good book. Shopping was a favorite pastime, and she could always find the best bargains. She had a special fondness for the Brimfield fair, where she enjoyed browsing through the myriad of unique items. But above all, Ellie's greatest joy and pride were her children and grandchildren. They were her world, and she devoted every moment to making their lives beautiful.

Ellie was best described as loving, selfless, and faith-filled. She had a heart that was always open, a hand that was always ready to help, and a faith that was unwavering. She loved every moment of her life, and she lived it fully and vibrantly. Her legacy of love and service will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ellie's life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she served so passionately. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life well-lived, a life that touched so many, a life that made a difference. Rest in peace, Ellie. Your memory will forever be a beacon of love, hope, and faith.

In honor of Ellie's favorite color, the family is asking everyone to wear blue to the services in her memory.

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