Eleanor Guernsey
1927 — 2026
A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and adventurer who lived life with grace, making lifelong friends from around the world along the way.
1927 — 2026
A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and adventurer who lived life with grace, making lifelong friends from around the world along the way.
"She was a beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother who lived life with grace, making lifelong friends from around the world along the way."
Mrs. Eleanor Guernsey, age 98, of Stuart, Florida passed away early on January 19, 2026 surrounded by family. Eleanor was born in Clinton, Iowa, in 1927, the daughter of the late Elmer and Frances (Goodwin) Greenlee.
Eleanor graduated from Clinton High School and from the Iowa Teachers College (now known as the University of Northern Iowa) with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. She taught Physical Education at Washington Junior High School in Clinton, Iowa and at a junior high school in Downey, California. She worked with the Red Cross swimming program for many years and was active with the Girl Scouts as a Scout leader. In 1951, Eleanor's swimming abilities saved a nine year old child from drowning in a YWCA pool in Los Angeles.
Eleanor married Robert (Bob) Guernsey in 1950 and they moved to California where they became charter members of the First Congregational Church in Downey. Eleanor and Bob had three children while living in California. In 1966, Bob was promoted by PriceWaterhouse and invited to become a partner in PriceWaterhouse South America. Eleanor, Bob and family embarked on a great adventure voyaging to Lima, Peru as passengers on a freighter to start a new life in South America.
After 11 years in Lima, the family moved to Sao Paulo, Brazil, headquarters of PriceWaterhouse South America. Eleanor and Bob retired to Stuart, Florida in 1984.
Eleanor loved to travel and visited many countries. She was known for her wonderful parties in Lima and for her volunteer work in many charities both in Peru and Brazil. She was a member of Peace Presbyterian Church and a supporter of Habitat for Humanity.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob of almost 60 years, her brother Jack and her sister Helen. She is survived by her daughter, Diane Neff and husband Andre', her daughter, Cynthia Daugherty and husband Bill, and her son, Robert (Bobby) Guernsey and wife Maria; her grandchildren; and many great grandchildren.
Eleanor was born to Elmer and Frances (Goodwin) Greenlee in Clinton, Iowa, beginning a life that would span nearly a century and touch countless hearts.
Earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education, setting the foundation for her career as a Physical Education teacher.
Began a beautiful partnership that would last almost 60 years, filled with adventure, love, and family.
Eleanor's swimming abilities saved a nine year old child from drowning in a YWCA pool in Los Angeles, demonstrating her courage and quick action.
Taught Physical Education at a junior high school in Downey, California. Became charter members of the First Congregational Church in Downey.
The family embarked on a great adventure, voyaging to Lima, Peru as passengers on a freighter. Bob had been promoted to partner in PriceWaterhouse South America.
After 11 wonderful years in Lima, the family relocated to São Paulo, headquarters of PriceWaterhouse South America.
Eleanor and Bob retired to Stuart, Florida, where they would enjoy many wonderful years surrounded by family and friends.
Eleanor passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and grace.
"Eleanor dedicated her life to education, teaching Physical Education and working with the Red Cross swimming program. She inspired countless young people to be active and confident."
"From voyaging to Peru on a freighter to exploring Machu Picchu and living in São Paulo, Eleanor embraced life's adventures with enthusiasm and courage."
"Known for her wonderful parties in Lima, Eleanor had a gift for bringing people together and creating warm, memorable gatherings."
"In 1951, Eleanor's quick thinking and swimming abilities saved a nine-year-old child from drowning – a testament to her courage and selflessness."
"Whether with the Girl Scouts, Red Cross, or various charities in Peru and Brazil, Eleanor gave generously of her time to help others."
"A beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eleanor lived life with grace, making lifelong friends from around the world."
The funeral services will be private for family.
Those wishing to honor Eleanor's memory may make a donation to one of the organizations close to her heart.
Donate to Habitat for Humanity