Eleanor Veronica Waisome

Eleanor Veronica Waisome was born on August 13, 1929 to Herman and Georgina Cousins in Panama, Republic of Panama. She had three older siblings, Icilda Codrington, Daphne Connell, Leonard Cousins and one younger brother, Tony Cousins. Eleanor was married to Eustace E. Waisome on June 7, 1947.  From this union, four children were born: Herminia, Eustacio, Patricia and Michele. 

Eleanor received her primary and high school education while living in the Canal Zone of Panama.  She attended primary school in Red Bank and the La Boca Occupational H.S. where she was an honor student.  Eleanor was raised by her godmother, Ms. Bedford, in the Canal Zone.  She developed musical talents by learning to play the piano.  She also became proficient in the English language along with her native Spanish language. Eleanor moved to New York in 1961, and obtained a position working for Key Food Corporations as a cashier for several years. She then obtained a position with the City of New York Department of Social Services as an intake administrator.  Eleanor retired from this position in 1994.

Eleanor was a stern and loving mother.  She worked hard to provide for her children and taught them many valuable lessons, especially skills relating to budgeting and finances.  Eleanor was a life-long learner who enjoyed activities that were mentally stimulating.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing crossword puzzles and scrabble. She earned the title “scrabble master.” Eleanor learned how to drive at the age of 59 by her daughter Michele. She continued driving until she turned 80 years old.     Eleanor was very independent and loved helping others.  She would frequently use her car to travel many places where she could provide support to those in need. Eleanor was a member of the Grandparent Support Program at the Institute of Community Living.  During her time there, a unanimous vote was made and she was crowned “Queen” for the Grandparent Support Group in 1991.  Eleanor was also a member of The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary located on West 14th Street, New York, NY. This auxiliary was responsible for helping children by wrapping holiday gifts and toys.

Eleanor was a faithful member of Gospel Truth Church of God in Brooklyn for over 40 years.  Eleanor held a number of positions during her tenure at this church including Head of the Usher Board, Trustee Board Chair Person, Missionary Board, and Advisory Board to the pastor.  She continued working to support her church and pastor until her heath began failing and she could no longer participate in these positions.  Eleanor maintained her faith and love for God despite her deteriorating health.

Eleanor was predeceased by her daughters; Herminia Waisome and Patricia Blackman and her older siblings Icilda, Daphne and Leonard.  She leaves to cherish her memory – two children, Eustacio Waisome and Michele Waisome-Williams, one daughter-in-law, Sybile Waisome, one son-in-law, Rafael Williams, one brother, Tony Cousins, seven granddaughters, one grandson, fifteen great grandchildren, and a host of  relatives and friends.

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