Eleanor Ambridge, born on May 7, 1936, formerly of State Street in Fort Plain, NY, departed this life on October 16, 2026, at the St. Johnsville Nursing Home.

In her early years, Eleanor's family moved to St. Johnsville, where she completed her education at St. Johnsville High School, class of 1954. She began her work experience at the A&P before pursuing further education at the Practical Bible Training School in Binghamton, NY, graduating in 1957. Her journey then led her to the United States Navy, where she graduated from boot camp in August 1961 and attended the Navy Storekeeper School that December. Eleanor was honorably discharged on June 15, 1964, having been nominated for WAVE of the Year. She dedicated her professional career to the Navy Regional Finance Center (later Strategic Systems Programs) until her retirement on June 30, 1991. Her work with Polaris submarines and the Poseidon and Trident programs earned her numerous accolades.

Her devotion to her faith was evident through her membership at Grandview Baptist Church of Fort Plain, and previously at the Forcey Bible Church, Silver Springs, Maryland, and Trinity Baptist Church in Niskayuna, NY, where she enriched the community by directing choirs, singing solos, and playing the piano. Eleanor also contributed as President, Vice President, and Treasurer of the Christian Business Women organization in DC. Her patriotic spirit was marked by her association with the American Legion.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Verlie and Nelson Ambridge; siblings Gladys Martagon, Alice Zimmerman, Natalie Yager, Jeanette Rice, and brother Nelson Ambridge; and dear friend Muriel Evans. Eleanor leaves behind her sister, Adeline Skee, nieces and caregivers Rosanne Hoffman and Elisa Crosson, nephew Robert Yager, as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Her life was graced by loving adopted families— Shirley Shannon, a childhood friend; James and Kelleye Taylor and their children, Adam, Stephen, and Nathan Taylor; Julia Reyes; Carleye Romano; and the Cole Family—and cherished friends Kathy and Pastor Dan West, Pastor Sean, Amy, and Jeremiah, who were a tremendous help with transporting Eleanor to doctor's visits and treatments.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Grandview Baptist Church, 15 Washington Street, Fort Plain, NY, with inurnment to follow at the Fort Plain Cemetery.

In Eleanor's memory, donations may be made to the Grandview Baptist Church, PO Box 169, Fort Plain, NY 13339,  the American Heart Association, or the Arthritis Foundation.

The Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home of Canajoharie is in charge of arrangements.