Elyn Knight Nimmo

Elyn Knight Nimmo (née Shields), 80, formerly of River Vale, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 3rd, 2026, with her daughter holding her hand and her husband of 58 years whispering “I love you” in her ear.

Elyn was born on May 6th, 1945, in Kearny, NJ. Her Irish father loved to tell the story of stepping out into the spring air after her birth and finding the streets filled with people dancing, ringing bells and embracing strangers. He would smile and say he knew, in his heart, they were celebrating the arrival of his beautiful daughter. History would later teach Elyn that the jubilation marked the beginning of the celebrations for Victory in Europe Day, the end of World War II in Europe. But in her father’s heart, the joy belonged to her.

After graduating from North Arlington High School, Elyn headed to Waynesburg College. It was there where she met her future husband, Robert, during their freshman year. They both served as editors of the campus newspaper. They dated throughout college, building a partnership rooted in friendship and shared purpose. Upon graduation, Elyn returned to New Jersey while Bob moved back home to New York City. After one miserable night apart, Bob drove straight to her family home and proposed. They eloped on June 21st, 1968, to Pittsburgh, PA, eventually settling in River Vale, NJ, where they built a beautiful life together filled with hard work, travel, and enduring love.

Among Elyn’s fondest professional memories were the eight years she spent as a third-grade teacher in Cliffside Park. She had a natural gift for teaching; she was patient, creative, and deeply invested in every child who walked through her classroom door. After welcoming her beloved daughter and son, Elyn devoted herself wholeheartedly to family life. She became the very best Brownie leader, homework helper, backyard party planner, and family dinner maker the world had ever seen. Elyn was especially known for her pot roast, a recipe that her children are still trying to duplicate. She also volunteered as an ESL tutor, generously helping others find confidence and belonging in a new language.

Elyn is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Robert; her daughter, Diana, and her spouse, Michael; her son, Richard, and his spouse, Tara; and her treasured grandchildren, Chelsea, Chloe, Tyler, and Sam. She is also survived by her brother, Leigh Shields. She was predeceased by her parents, Mona and Joseph Shields, and her sister, Diane Brendel.

Elyn is also survived by many dear friends. Her lifelong best friend, Elaine, with whom she shared more than fifty years of laughter and life’s ups and downs. Her friend Victoria, who helped Elyn look and feel fabulous even as her mobility faded. Pastor Kirsten Ross, who visited weekly to share the Word of the Lord, and Dr. Renee Weslow, whose compassionate care allowed Elyn to maintain her dignity and independence at home until her final days. Finally, her loyal daily companion, a spunky rescue dog named Alfie, who brought comfort and joy in equal measure.

Although Elyn spent her final years mostly at home, her warmth, positivity, and humor never dimmed. She remained a lifelong artist, gardener, and teacher at heart. People were drawn to her radiant smile, the gentle way she offered encouragement without judgment, and her remarkable ability to “go with the flow,” no matter the challenge, and there were many. She shared joy generously, in countless quiet and meaningful ways. Those who knew her will remember her laugh, her kindness, and the way she always found the silver lining. She was the world’s best listener, a non-judgemental sounding board for family and friends.

Her husband, children, grandchildren, family, and friends will miss her fiercely. Yet they carry forward the lessons she lived every day: be kind to one another and always do the best that you can.

Elyn entered the world on a day of celebration and left it on Good Friday. There is gratitude for the joy she brought, the love she gave so freely, and the lasting brightness in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Elyn’s life on Saturday, April 18, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Reformed Church, 292 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, NJ. Guests are welcome to share a story about Elyn or simply listen. A casual luncheon at the church will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Elyn’s memory may be made to Trinity Reformed Church at the address above or via Zelle at [email protected]