Elaine M. DeCosta

Elaine M. DeCosta, a cherished educator, and devoted community servant, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024. Born and raised in Dorchester, Elaine later settled in North Weymouth, where she became a beloved figure in the local community. Her life was marked by a dedication to learning, teaching, and volunteering, which left an indelible impact on the lives of many.

Elaine's academic journey began at St. Gregory's Grammar School and continued as she graduated from Archbishop Cushing Central High School in 1952. Her passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor's degree in education from the State Teachers College at Boston in 1956, followed by a Master's in Education from Northeastern University in 1960. These achievements laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in education.

For 38 years, from 1956 to 1994, Elaine devoted herself to nurturing young minds as a first-grade teacher for Weymouth Public Schools. Her dedication to her students was evident in her every action, and her influence extended well beyond the classroom. After her retirement from teaching, Elaine continued to serve her community as the Director of Volunteers for Weymouth Elder Services from 1999 to 2001. Additionally, she was employed at AAA between 1988 and 1991, where she brought the same level of commitment and excellence.

Elaine's involvement in her community was far-reaching. As a longtime member of the Weymouth Scholarship Fund, she helped provide educational opportunities to countless students. Her commitment to education endured through her retirement as a member of the Education Association of Massachusetts. Moreover, Elaine's selflessness shone brightly through her volunteer work at the Weymouth Food Pantry, where she had been a steadfast presence since 1994.

Beyond her professional and volunteer endeavors, Elaine had a zest for life and a love for travel. She explored the world with an open heart and mind, embracing new cultures and experiences. Those who knew Elaine would describe her as intelligent, kind, and selfless. Her intelligence shone through in her ability to engage with people from all walks of life, her kindness was felt by everyone she encountered, and her selflessness was evident in her constant putting of others' needs before her own.

Elaine was predeceased by her parents Manuel and Ilene DeCosta. She is survived by Al Donaruma and his late wife Anne of Osterville and their sons Robert Donaruma and his wife Trish and James Donaruma, Roberta Collins of N. Weymouth, Janet Modano and her husband Tony of Hingham and her close friends Robin Curley and her husband Michael of Whitman, Lisa Shilts and her husband Keith of Pembroke and John Maher and his wife Denise of Wareham along with many cousins, close friends and past students that have kept in close touch with her over the years.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Monday 4-7 PM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home NORTH WEYMOUTH at 40 Sea Street (off Route 3A - Bicknell Square). A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:45 AM on Tuesday prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Jerome Church, Weymouth at 10:30 AM. Burial in Fairmount Cemetery, Weymouth. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Elaine to The Weymouth Food Pantry, P.O. Box 890009, Weymouth, MA, 02189.