Ellen M (Russell) Cunning

Ellen M. Cunning, 81, of Cohasset, MA passed away peacefully on January 26th.  She was surrounded by her loved ones, who cared for her so deeply. Ellen was born on June 10, 1941, the youngest of three daughters, to Bridget and Henry Russell of Dorchester, MA. Ellen attended St. Mark’s Grammar School, St. Gregory High School, and went on to study at St. Aquinis College. With her beloved sisters always by her side, Ellen enjoyed day trips to the beach and marathon shopping excursions. One sunny day at Rexhame Beach, Ellen met the love of her life, Joseph Cunning, of Marshfield, MA. The two wed in 1963 and built a wonderful life together.  Ellen, Joe and their two sons, Sean and Michael, lived in Hingham, MA, Severna Park, MD and eventually settled in Cohasset in 1979. Ellen devoted her life to be a loving wife, mother, grandmother and neighbor. She cared deeply for her family and friends and was always there to help in small or big ways; she brightened up many days with her famous baking skills. Known for her clever wit and generous heart, Ellen made enduring friendships wherever she went, especially at her favorite places in Cohasset including Sandy Beach, St. Anthony’s Parish, the Village shops and High School sporting events. For 15 years, Ellen worked as an office manager at Cohasset Pediatrics and Cohasset Dental, making a positive impact on many lives with her welcoming smile and comforting demeanor. Ellen spent the last years of her life with her family by her side while she enjoyed watching her grandchildren grow into young adults. Ellen will forever be remembered for her fun-loving nature and kindness, she will be missed but her memory lives on with her loved ones.

Ellen’s husband, Joe, died in 1995 and Ellen continued to keep him close to her heart every day.  Ellen is also predeceased by her best friends and sisters, Mary MacDougall (Dedham, MA) and Ann Mellyn (Osterville, MA).

Ellen leaves behind her two sons, Sean Cunning and his wife, Christine, of Cohasset; Michael Cunning and his wife, Chauncy, of Cohasset; and five grandchildren: Molly Cunning, Lauren Cunning, Katherine Cunning, Michael Cunning, Jr. and Emily Cunning.  

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wedbesday, February 1st, 2023 at 9AM at the St. Anthony's Church-2 Summer Street, Cohasset, MA. Relatives and friends invited to attend. Burial will be private.

Please donate to a charity of your choice in Ellen Cunning’s name. Special thank you to the staff at The Residence at Penniman Hill in Hingham, MA for the wonderful care they provided to Ellen over the past two years and, especially, during her final days.

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