Obituary: Eleanor E. Stezelecki

Eleanor E. Stezelecki, at 99

Eleanor E. (Mercurio) Stezelecki of Hull passed away on December 19, 2025. She was 99 years old.

Eleanor’s early desire to bring beauty into the lives of others blossomed into a fulfilling career as a hair stylist, a vocation she took to heart for nearly four decades. Her skillful hands and warm conversation were not just confinements of her salon, but extended into the homes of those who could no longer venture out, ensuring that grace and dignity were always within reach for the elders of her community.

Eleanor’s love of nature was profound, as she was an avid gardener who fostered a lifelong relationship with the earth, nurturing trees and flowers with as much care as she offered her beloved clients. Alongside her friend, Henry, she traveled across the country planting trees, leaving a legacy of growth and life in places that will flourish for generations. Her grace was not confined to gardens, for Eleanor was an avid dancer, a passion she nurtured up until her final days. Her love for music also found expression through her talented fingers on piano and organ keys – a shared joy and uplifting presence at many gatherings.

Eleanor’s memory will blossom in the hearts of all those she has touched, just like the trees she planted will continue to grow tall and strong. She leaves behind a world enriched by her love, a garden of people nurtured by her kindness. Though Eleanor E. Stezelecki has concluded her dance in this life, the music she brought to it will resonate forever in the quiet rustle of leaves, the blooming of flowers, and the cherished recollections of a community grateful for her presence. With each tree that stands tall and each sprout that breaks through the earth, we are reminded of Eleanor’s indomitable spirit and the gentle hands that once turned the soil. We take solace in knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire and influence long into the future.

Cherished mother of Carol Sanson and her late husband, Nicholas, of Tampa, Florida, and John Stezelecki and his ex-wife, Lois Ann, of Hull. Grandmother of Laura Stanson, John Stezelecki Jr., Scott Stezelecki, and great-grandmother of Matthew Stezelecki. Proud aunt of Carmen, the late Ritchie, Raymond, Albina, Lisa, Denise, Marilyn, and Guy. Predeceased by her husband John Stezelecki, her longtime partner Henry Balboni, and her siblings: Baby Frank Mercurio, Mary Sarno, Frank Mercurio, William Mercurio, and Ann Garfagna.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service, which will be celebrated on Saturday, January 3, at 11 a.m. in Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, Hingham.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Eleanor may be made to the Hull Lifesaving Museum, P.O. Box 221, 1117 Nantasket Avenue, Hull, MA 02045. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.