Ellen J. Forte

Ellen was predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Lawrence Joseph Forte; oldest son, Lawrence A. Forte; daughter, Gina Marie Forte; both her parents, Angelo and Margaret Mastrogiacomo; and her brother, Joseph Mastrogiacomo. Ellen, born in Brooklyn New York, was the first generation born in America from her Italian father.

At an early age, her love of music and dance was encouraged by her family. She found her footing in dancing ballet, tap, swing and ballroom. In her youth she was featured on a local radio show, tap dancing on a board in the radio broadcasting room during the intro to the program. During WWII, not only did she volunteer at the USO, but while still in high school, she lied about her age so that she could work on base for the war effort. She was placed in the office typing pool and later was picked up by a Captain as his personal secretary until the war was over and life in the states returned to normal. In her mid 20's she worked for Westinghouse until she met and married her husband, Lawrence J. Forte, who passed away in 2010. She was very independent and enjoyed traveling with her family to see the sights of America while living in California.

Ellen would feed anyone that came to the house a true Italian meal. She loved keeping up her yard and had a small rose garden in back. She was a loyal New York Yankees and Giants fan. Her strong independent spirit served her well. She will be greatly missed, as she has influenced the many lives she touched during her life.

Ellen is survived by her son, Joseph Forte; his partner, Stacy; daughter-in-law, Gabrielle Forte; grandsons, Lawrence and his wife Sarah, Christopher and his fiancé Lauren; great-grandchildren, Bernadette, Louis, and Josephine; as well as extended family and friends.

A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday July 24, 2025 at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home. A Celebration of Ellen's Life will be held at 10 am on Friday July 25, 2025 at the funeral home with entombment to follow at Rosewood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or any charity of your choice.