Eleanor DiNardo Degnan of Chesapeake passed away in her sleep on August 25, 2025 surrounded by her children. Born on July 24, 1931, she was the daughter of James J. DiNardo, Sr. and Sabina DiNardo of Harrison, NJ.

Eleanor was predeceased by her husband, Francis J. "Frank" Degnan, Sr.; her brother James J. DiNardo, Jr.; and her sister Rosemarie Skillman. She is survived by her seven children: Michelle Degnan, Maria Klein, Francis J. "Bud" Degnan, Jr. (Debby), Maureen Mizelle (Merritt), Gregory G. Degnan (Callie), Margaret Mary "Maggie" McCready (Tico), and Jerome D. "J.D." Degnan (Cindy); as well as eleven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Eleanor met her husband, Frank, on a blind date when he was a midshipman at the United States Naval Academy, and it was love at first dance. Through their navy years and beyond, Eleanor ran the ship at home, and together they raised their children through love and kindness. She was known equally for the power of her novenas and the quality of her meatballs. Everyone who entered her home felt welcome, and no one left hungry. She will be missed by all who were blessed by her warmth and kindness.

The family expresses our sincerest gratitude to the entire staff at Bickford Assisted Living in Suffolk for giving our mother a second family in her final years.

A Liturgy of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 18th, at the Church of St. Therese, 4137 Portsmouth Blvd, Chesapeake. The family will receive guests during the hour prior.  Burial will be at Albert G. Horton Veterans Cemetery immediately following the Mass, with reception to follow back at St Therese's Church Parish Hall.

Our mother loved supporting her sons-in-law as they raised money for the American Diabetes Association in their annual Tour de Cure bike ride.  In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting their team, The Blue M&Ms . Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.