Elaine A. McDonnell

She was predeceased by her parents, George and Marguerite (Hancox) Snyder; her beloved husband of 39 years, Robert J. McDonnell; her brother, George Snyder Jr.; her sister, Marguerite Daily, and brothers-in-law Robert Daily and Arthur Hackett. Elaine is survived by her dear sister, Mary Jane Hackett of North Arlington and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Elaine was a devoted mother to Melissa of Lakewood; Robert (Lisa) of Forked River; Mark (Julia) of Snoqualmie, Washington; and Sean (Tara) of Hightstown. She was a proud grandmother to Kaitlin (Dillon), Devin, Natalie, Joseph, Patrick, Madison, Alexandra, and William.

Elaine grew up in Kearny and met Robert in her teens - a connection that would shape the course of their lives. They married in 1968 and moved to the Jersey Shore in the early 1970s. Elaine and Robert first moved to Neptune where they met Don, Kathy, and Sue Bryker, who would become lifelong friends. Following that, they set roots in Manchester for over 20 years, where they raised a family, before retiring in Lakewood. After Robert passed away in 2008, Elaine lived with her devoted daughter Melissa for the last 17 years at their home in Leisure Village.

Elaine worked as a telephone operator at the historic Hangar 1 at the former Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst. She concluded a fulfilling career as a concierge at Sunrise of Wall. She found joy in spending time with her community at Leisure Village.

A lover of the shore, Elaine enjoyed frequent visits to the Jersey Shore and family vacations to Cape Cod. She always had a special place in her heart for animals and adored her dog, Barney, as well as her previous cherished companions, Maggie and Dusty. In recent years, Elaine found great joy in spending time with her extended family, especially Kate Smith and Bob White during the holidays. These gatherings became a cherished tradition that her granddaughter, Madison, will always remember.

A visitation for Elaine will take place on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 from 3 pm to 6 pm at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 3010 Ridgeway Rd., Manchester, NJ. A private cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests making honorary donations to the American Humane Society, (https://ahs.givecloud.co/tribute) one of Elaine's favorite charities. Flowers, cards, and other expressions of sympathy are also deeply appreciated during this time. Condolences and tributes can be left for the McDonnell family on this website.