Contoocook, NH – formerly of Contoocook, NH, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026. Born in Boston as Ellie O’Brien, she proudly embraced her Irish heritage and was known for her warmth, humor, and the way she made everyone feel welcome.
Ellie built her life around family, service, and generosity. When her children were young, she chose Contoocook- “Tooky”-as the place where she would raise them surrounded by nature and community. It became the place where she built the life she loved and where her heart always remained.
A devoted mother above all else, Ellie poured her entire heart into raising her children, John and Judie, creating a home filled with encouragement, laughter, and unconditional love.
Ellie spent many years serving her community as an EMT for the Town of Hopkinton, responding to emergencies with courage and compassion. She later continued her calling as a mental health worker at the New Hampshire State Hospital, caring for patients with dignity, patience, and unwavering kindness. Over the course of her career, she helped numerous people, many of whom she would never meet again-but whose lives were changed by her compassion.
Ellie was known for her generosity, her welcoming nature, and her ability to make everyone feel valued. Many affectionately considered her their honorary mom. Even in retirement, she continued to give, supporting charities for children and animals and quietly helping anyone in need.
She is survived by her son, John Blanco, and his fiancé Patty Sweeney; her daughter Judie Blanco; her grandson Mikael Blanco and his husband Howie LeBlanco; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Helen O’Brien, and her siblings Thomas O’Brien, Bernice Melanson, Lawrence O’Brien, Robert O’Brien, and Carol McDonough.
A burial will take place at Contoocook Village Cemetery on Thursday, September 3, at 1 PM, followed by a private celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.
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