Eleanor Mary Hackett Porter

Born in Rochester, N.Y. on July 1, 1926, Eleanor (nee Hackett) worked as a legal secretary before marrying Ross Porter on Oct. 23, 1948. Together they added seven children to the post-war Baby Boom, with the first being born in 1948 and the last arriving in 1972. Eleanor and her family moved to Arlington, Texas, in 1971.

Eleanor, like many women of her generation, was first and foremost a mother. Through daily example, she imparted in her children the best qualities of her open and curious mind, boundless work ethic, unflagging sense of humor, unrelenting gentleness, and generous acceptance of others, regardless of their circumstances in life. An unkind word never passed her lips.

As she aged and endured the various physical challenges that come with time, Eleanor remained youthful in spirit and attitude. Her ability to take what life offered and make the best of it inspired all who met her, most of all her children and grandchildren. A lifelong Catholic, she found solace in her faith during her most difficult times.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Ross. She is survived by her children, Tim of Corte Madera, Calif.; Barbara Catrett of Argyle, Texas; Mary Lou Saxon of Dallas; Eileen Ferbend of Arlington; Katie Mangett of Denver; Eleanor Hisey of Arlington, Tom of Larkspur, Calif.; and five grandchildren, Sarah, Maggie, Joe, Daniel and Tim.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Oct., 14, at 11 a.m., at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Arlington. A reception at the church will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to unbound.org.