Eleanor Louise Peck-Penn was born February 10, 1940, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Paul Haywood Holmes and Louise Massengale Holmes. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Douglas Holmes, her husband, R.C. Penn, and a great-grandson, Trey Saunders. Surrounded by loved ones, she transitioned to her heavenly home on Monday, November 6, 2023, at Universal Health Care in Bolivia, North Carolina.
Eleanor was educated in the Northfield Public School system and graduated from Nordonia High School. She also graduated from Tri-C Community College and continued her education at John Carroll University in pursuit of a law degree. She was a proud member of the sorority of Delta Sigma Theta, where she found a sisterhood that supported her and allowed her to make a difference in the lives of others. She was employed by Cleveland Clinic for several years until she retired. Eleanor gave her life to Christ at an early age and was an active member at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church until her health declined. Eleanor was a member of the 21st Congressional Caucus and the Oakwood Democratic Club, where she tirelessly worked towards promoting democratic values and advocating for the rights of all individuals. Her involvement in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference showcased her steadfast commitment to social justice and equality. One of Eleanor's most significant accomplishments was her involvement in the Stokes Brigade, which played an instrumental role in the election of Congressman Louis Stokes and the first Black mayor of Cleveland, Carl B. Stokes. Her dedication to the political process and her love for the community was unwavering. Outside of her community involvement, Eleanor found joy in her hobbies. She had a green thumb and loved spending time in her garden, nurturing plants, and creating a beautiful sanctuary. She was an avid reader and found solace and inspiration in the pages of countless books. When asked what her greatest accomplishment was, she would tell you about her children and grandkids. She was so proud of them and was always encouraging them to do their best. Eleanor will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her unwavering dedication to social justice, education, and community will continue to inspire us all.
Left to cherish many fond and lasting memories are her daughter, Denise Saunders (Bernard Porter) of South Euclid, OH, and three sons, Earl Peck Jr of Garfield Heights, OH, Anthony Peck (Valerie) of Wickliff, OH, and Christopher Peck (Fonstena) of Shallotte NC. Her pride and joy, the grandkids, Rickey Saunders, Ryan Porter, La’Keya, Jamaal Peck, Bianca Dennis, Dwayne Langford, Dontez Peck, Devin Peck, Krinijah Peck, ten great-grandkids and a host of loving cousins, relatives, and countless friends.
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