Elaine M. Buzzell

Elaine Marie Mellett, a beacon of light and resilience, passed away on August 1, 2024 surrounded by family.

Born on May 8, 1968, in Boston, Massachusetts, Elaine’s spirit and strength were evident from an early age. A proud graduate of the culinary arts program at Blue Hills Regional Technical Vocational High School, she had a varied career that included roles as a lunch lady at Dedham High School and a pastry decorator. Her culinary skills were most cherished in her famous chocolate chip and snickerdoodle cookies.

Elaine’s vibrant personality shone through her love of music and dance, particularly to the tunes of Rod Stewart, Donna Summer, and Stevie Nicks. Her joyful renditions of her favorite songs brought a smile to everyone around her.

Elaine also had a passion for sunbathing and would do anything to spend a few minutes in the sun, embracing its warmth on her skin. Just by looking at her you would assume she came from a sunny beach in Florida, but she was able to achieve her glow all year round in New England which is an impressive feat within itself.

Later in life, Elaine found joy in gardening. Being able to bring colorful new life into her community gave her peace and allowed her to express her artistic side.

Her nurturing nature extended past tending to her garden and expanded into her roles as a devoted mother and grandmother. Being the mother to Vanessa, Matt, and Amanda and grandmother to James and Georgia was the greatest source of pride in her life.

Elaine’s remarkable strength and positive outlook allowed her to overcome numerous adversities with grace. She faced life’s challenges with a light heart and an unyielding resilience, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew her.

She is survived by her children Vanessa, Matt, and Amanda; her son-in-law Parker Nelson; her grandchildren James and Georgia; her siblings Michael and James Mellett, Kelly Curtin, and Deborah Harrison; her half-sisters Katie and Nora Mellett; and her father and stepmother Michael and Karen Mellett. Elaine is reunited in heaven with her beloved mother Sandra Mellett, Helen Suddard, and her sister who was also gone too soon Lori Mellett.

Elaine’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her laughter, love, and unbreakable spirit will be dearly missed.

Visiting hours for Elaine will be held Friday, August 9th from 4 to 7 pm at the Folsom Funeral Home, 87 Milton Street, Dedham. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, Elaine’s family would appreciate donations to the Mass General Brigham Spaulding Rehabilitation Center.

Donations by mail can be sent to:
Spaulding Rehabilitation, Development Office
300 First Avenue, 8th Floor
Boston, MA 02129

or donations online can be made at:

https://support.spauldingrehab.org/give/510836/#!/donation/checkout