Eleanor Jane Sosman's Obituary
Eleanor Jane Sosman
1936 - 2024
Eleanor Jane Sosman, aged 87, passed peacefully at home on June 24th, 2024. Eleanor was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother who will be dearly missed and remembered.
Significant Life Events
Eleanor was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1936 and lived a life full of love and dedication to her family. She traveled with her mother to New York to marry her husband, Russell Sosman, while he was in the service. They shared over 50 wonderful years together, residing in Carrick and Pleasant Hills.
Eleanor was a telephone operator at the B&O Railroad, often working night shifts to provide for her family. Her sacrifices and those of Russell ensured a bright future for their children, Lori and Gregg. Eleanor took immense pride in her children. She was able to witness Lori become the first college graduate in the family and watch Gregg continue the family business, Silver Buckle Antiques.
Affectionately known as "EJ" by her best friends Dottie and Dori, Eleanor shared a deep bond with them. Dottie and Eleanor worked together at the railroad, and she later worked with Dori at the Old West Wash House. She was also especially close with Janet, Pat and Kay.
Eleanor enjoyed playing solitaire, Rummy 500 and old maid. She was a regular at Eat'n Park, loved shopping at JCPenney and buying flowers for the yard. Her signature dish was her famous meatloaf with a special glaze. Eleanor would buy scratch-off tickets and often say something like, "If we only had #11, we would have won a million. Wouldn't that be nice? We would get on a plane and go to Florida."
Eleanor had never driven in her 87 years. She relied on streetcars, buses, or rides from friends and family. In the early '90s, she would take her grandson Brad to visit his mom Lori at Kaufmann's and eat at the Tic Toc Restaurant.
Her son Gregg lived with her for her entire life, taking exceptional care of his mom and catering to her needs, especially in her later years. Her daughter Lori frequently called, checked in, and visited her mom. They particularly enjoyed getting their hair done together and the holidays. Steve, her son-in-law, could always make Eleanor laugh.
Eleanor was a cherished grandmother by her only grandchild, Brad. They shared a special relationship as she raised him while Mom and Dad worked. Together, they enjoyed numerous trips, dinners, shows at the Benedum, late-night phone conversations, and most importantly, they were there for each other. Eleanor loved Nicole Brad's wife and their cat Boots, always asking how they were doing, wishing them a goodnight with an I love you.
Anyone who knew Eleanor would remember her witty, fun, and entertaining personality.
Her most cherished role was taking care of her family. She lovingly took excellent care of her mother and ensured that her husband, children and grandchildren always felt supported and loved.
Surviving Family
Eleanor is survived by her loving family:
• Son: Gregg Sosman
• Daughter: Lori (Sosman) Killmeyer, married to Steve Killmeyer
• Grandson: Brad Killmeyer, married to Nicole (Morrow) Killmeyer
Personal Tributes
Eleanor was known for her unwavering love for her family, always putting them above all else. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace every opportunity for new experiences, making cherished memories along the way. With a contagious sense of humor, Eleanor had a gift for bringing laughter to those around her, brightening even the toughest of days.
Eleanor's warmth, kindness, and zest for life will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Eleanor, EJ, Mom and Gram may your star shine bright in the sky as you watch over us all. We love you forever and always. Rest in peace. You will always be in our hearts.
Final Thoughts
Eleanor's passing reminds us to cherish our loved ones and make every moment count.
What’s your fondest memory of Eleanor?
What’s a lesson you learned from Eleanor?
Share a story where Eleanor's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Eleanor you’ll never forget.
How did Eleanor make you smile?