Eleanor S. Cyphers passed away after a brief illness with family holding her hand at the Connecticut Hospice in Branford, on Jan. 4. She was born Eleanor Jane Saffrey on Nov. 9, 1934, in Chester, to the late Ruth Merrill Saffery and Alfred Fargo Saffery (Hap).

Eleanor had a strong love of family in her own kind, gentle, and quiet way. Eleanor and Albert spent their nearly 60 years of marriage living life to the fullest — camping with family and friends, horse shows, time with the Boy Scouts of America; and in their retirement, they found a home away from home with friends they considered family in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Eleanor enjoyed her walks on the beaches of PEI, where she collected countless pieces of sea glass which she enjoyed sharing bottles and jars with a special few people. Eleanor also enjoyed hosting dinners for family and friends both in Connecticut, and PEI.

Eleanor is survived by her son Albert H. Cyphers Jr., daughter-in-law Maria G. Cyphers of Westbrook, granddaughter Stephanie L. Cyphers of Cleveland; son David L. Cyphers of Westbrook; daughter Ruth C. Wagner, son-in-law Daniel B. Wagner of Westbrook; and grandson Joshua Cyphers and wife Keri of Chester. Eleanor is also survived by nieces and several nephews and friends both here and in Canada. Eleanor is preceded in death by her father Alfred F. Saffery “Hap,” mother Ruth M. Saffery; brothers, John Saffery and Merrill Saffrey; sister Jean S. Palmer; son Mark R. Cyphers; and husband Albert H. Cyphers Sr.

A celebration of Eleanor’s life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at her home.