Ellen's obituary
Ellen Amy Cunha, 64, passed away peacefully at home on November 22, 2025. Born on June 16, 1961, and raised in Somerville, MA, Ellen later settled in Lynn, MA, where she and her husband of 45 years, Vasco Cunha, raised their two children, Mike Cunha (Kristen Cunha) and Amy Hodgkins (Brian Hodgkins).
After many years working in customer service and project management, Ellen retired to Sandown, NH. She spent her later years surrounded by nature, finding peace in the woods, the quiet, and the calm rhythm of her retirement. Ellen also spent countless moments enjoying time with her beloved dog Diesel during her retirement.
Ellen was warm, funny, creative, and endlessly welcoming. She loved music, crafting, and finding little ways to bring joy to others. She had a gift for turning strangers into friends and for making even simple days feel special. She believed that nothing was out of reach, and she lived by that belief every day. And if there was a theme to dress for, she never missed her chance.
She is predeceased by her parents, Roy and Emma (Ferdinand) Cook, her brother Edward Cook, and her beloved uncle Joe Ferdinand. Ellen was blessed with a large, loving extended family and held a special place in the hearts of her many nieces and nephews, as well as her cherished great-nieces and great-nephews.
Above all, her greatest joy came from her grandchildren: Aayla Cunha, Riker Cunha, Aaden Hodgkins, and Camden Hodgkins. They were the brightest part of her life.
Ellen poured her heart into everything she made, especially her crocheted pieces. If you have one, you carry a piece of her love. And if you’re missing her, she would want you to enjoy the simple things she adored: a trip to Dollar Tree, some M&Ms, an iced tea from Dunks, and music playing in the background.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date in her honor. Please come as you are and bring your favorite Ellen story to share.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Dementia Society of America at www.DementiaSociety.org/donate