Eleanor M. Hoyt, a beloved schoolteacher, devoted gardener, family genealogist, and steadfast friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was 88.
For more than three decades, Mrs. Hoyt shaped young minds as an elementary school teacher and librarian at Clayton Huey Elementary School. Her library media center was a place of encouragement and discovery, filled with well-worn books and colorful bulletin boards. Many of her former students credit her with instilling in them a lifelong love of learning.
She cherished her life in Center Moriches, where she felt deeply connected to the community. It was not just her home, but the backdrop to a life well lived and well loved.
In retirement, Mrs. Hoyt embraced time with her family, tending to her garden and researching her family genealogy, tracing their history back five generations. She took great pride in preserving stories, photographs, and records so that future generations would understand their roots. She also loved time spent on the water, enjoying peaceful days boating with family and friends, and treasured gathering around a table for meals with those she loved.
Eleanor will be remembered for her generous spirit, thoughtful cards for all occasions, and the warmth she brought into the lives of others.
She was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, Robert B. Hoyt, Jr., who predeceased her. She is survived by her loving family: daughter Valerie and her husband Gene O’Brien, and their daughters, Kelsey O’Brien-Arazoza (Nicholas Arazoza and their children Calla, Easton, and Ellis) and Kayley O’Brien; and daughter Linda and her husband Jeffrey London, and their son, Alexander London.
A private family graveside service was held at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Center Moriches just as her beloved gardens started to bloom.
Writers Note: Mrs. Hoyt was my librarian in elementary school and was mostly responsible for teaching me how to read. Here’s to Mr. Popper’s Penguins and It’s Like This, Cat—my first book report.