A lifetime Niles resident, peacefully passed away, in the presence of family, on October 4, 2025 in Niles. Born on November 14th, 1931 in South Bend, Indiana. She was the beloved daughter of Leslie and Dorothy Smith, who preceded her in passing.
She grew up on the family’s property. Where she later resided on Eleanor Road, (named after her) in an area developed by her father. There in a home, built by her loving husband, they raised their family.
That man, the love of her life, Leon Fisher. They were married at St. Mary’s church, in Niles, on October 17th 1953. Leon preceded her in death on March 2nd 2015.
Their union resulted in the birth of a son Thomas (Carrie) in 1961, another son they lost at birth in 1963, then a son David in 1965. Lastly, in 1969, their daughter Cynthia arrived completing their family picture.
Eleanor is also survived by her grandchildren granddaughters Fawn Vinnedge (James), Cricket Nelson (Josh), Lea Germann (Tad), Echo Fisher (Kyle Rago), As well as grandsons Tyler Fisher, Connor Fisher, Marc Fisher, and a host of great grandchildren.
Eleanor, while raising her family was very active in her church and community while she and Leon raised their family. She served on the board of education at Niles Community Schools for 16 years after joining when she had a child in elementary, middle, and high school levels.
Her and her dear close friend, Ann Sidmore, both strenuously advocated for educational excellence and opportunity for all the children of Niles. Those two ladies were known to be thought of as the “conscience” of the board while serving their community.
She and Leon were involved in many aspects and activities of the schools for over 30 years in many roles.
She was also a lifetime member of Wesley United Methodist Church (New Journey United Methodist) and spent many years in various groups and activities there. They were both active and served on the board of the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity in the Niles area with a group of close friends from the church.
Eleanor AKA “Ellie” led a well-rounded life and her positive impacts on many, could literally be defined with the statement, “make a difference” in which, in many lives, she did.
There will be a funeral service at New Journey United Methodist Church on Friday, October 10th at 12pm to celebrate her life with a luncheon at the church following the service.
Posted On: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 4:39 PM
