My siblings and I grew up in Richmond IN, and attended West Richmond Friends Meeting. I think that is where my older sister, Joanie Hale, met Eleanor when they were teenagers. Perhaps the Garners attended Clear Creek Meeting on the Earlham College campus, I’m not sure. But somehow Eleanor and Joanie got to be good friends. Eleanor was so full of life and fun — she always made me laugh. She was great for Joanie — she and Joanie were always cracking jokes, making funny comments, and generally making mischief. I don’t ever remember seeing Eleanor without a grin on her face — and she was so good for Joanie, as our parents were fairly strict Quaker parents, and Joanie was a bit of a rebel. It’s good at any phase of life to have a friend with a wacky sense of humor who makes you laugh! I realized how good Eleanor was for Joanie recently when I saw my younger sister Margie clowning around with a friend of hers, Beth, who has that same mischievous glint in her eye and reminds me of Eleanor, and they’re kidding each other in the same way, laughing and carrying on. Joanie died in 2015, about 3 years before Eleanor. I wish they had been able to keep in touch throughout their lives — what a great gift, that humor! Thank you, Eleanor, for your humor and great friendship to my Joanie! Love you, Susie

As I look at these photos and read the tributes, my heart is filled with so many emotions. Seems like a lifetime ago when I first visited that house on College Ave. So many laughs and good times over the years. The best chocolate chip cookies ever, inside jokes, great hugs and such a contagious laugh..those are among just a few of the things that I will forever hold on to as I remember "Mom #2." I am a better person because she was part of my life. My heart is saddened that she is no longer here with us.. but she will live in so many of our hearts forever.

On behalf of West Richmond Friends Meeting, please accept our condolences on Eleanor's passing. We pray that God's gentle Spirit will comfort you in this time of loss. May her memory be a blessing to you your whole life through.

Dear Gretchen, I am so sorry to hear of Ellie's death. I remember her fondly in her little red cabin at Quaker Haven. I send my condolences to you and your family as you mourn the loss of your mother. -- Sarah Mullen Northrop

Gretchen, I am so sorry. I was just thinking about our trips to the cottage the other day and how your mom was my mom too. This saddens my heart so deeply for you, Jesus, Cristian and Isabel. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your mom will be greatly missed!

Gretchen, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Know that you and your family are in my prayers. Bobbie Daigle and Family

Your mother was always fun to be around. I loved hanging out at your house when we were younger and visiting my grandfather in Richmond. Love you girl and I'm so sad she's gone.

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