Googoo, Eleanor Marie – 47 of We’koqma’q First Nation passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at home. Born in Baddeck, April 30, 1979. She was the daughter of late Angus and Mary K. (Young) Googoo. Eleanor was a loving, compassionate daughter, sister, aunt and a dear friend to many. Eleanor was a dedicated and passionate teacher to all who knew her, especially to the students who she loved dearly and treated as her own. Eleanor was adventurous, loved attending concerts, travelling and making the most of every day.

Eleanor was a loving sister, auntie, godmother and friend. Predeceased by brothers James Sylliboy, Keith Googoo and nephews Curt Phillips and Mise’l Evans. She is survived by siblings, John Angus Googoo, Sue Evans (Ray), Cynthia Googoo, Stephen Googoo, all of We’koqma’q; nieces and nephews, Joseph (Jessica) Phillips, Elaine Googoo, Kira Sark (PJ), Cynthia Evans (Michael), Asha Evans (Mark), George Sark Jr, Jade Sark (Noah), and Sara Sark, great-nephews; Antle Googoo, Tuma Googoo, Connor Evans, Cohen Evans, Raymond Evans, Mavrick Evans, and Pasmay Googoo; godchildren, Jade Sark, Lance Bright and Asha Evans.

Her home remained deeply connected to the cherished childhood memories created on the Bee family land; a place that brought generations together and strengthened the bonds that united them. Eleanor’s warmth, hospitality and unwavering love for her family made her home a safe haven for peace, respect and laughter – where love came first and disagreements were left at the door. Being the peacemaker of the family, she affectionately earned the nickname “Switzerland”. Anyone and everyone was welcomed at Eleanor’s home.

In 1997, Eleanor was one of five students who made up the first graduating class of the We’koqma’q School. She continued her education at StFX University. Eleanor holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, Bachelor of Education and a Master’s of Education in Indigenous Education.

Eleanor is a respected speaker, skilled basket maker, and knowledge holder who proudly shared Mi'kmaw ways of knowing, being and doing; seamlessly weaving culture, language, community values and identity into her teachings. Her favourite saying was, “How that sound again in Mi’kmaw? ‘Tel’taq’”.

Eleanor is an exceptional educator whose leadership exemplifies what it means to lead through an L’nu world view. Her impact on students, families and colleagues is profound and lasting. She was awarded the Milton Keynes Award in 2026, an education award that celebrates those who positively shape young people’s futures through dedication, innovation, and support.

She was a member of Blessed St. Kateri Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in We’koqma’q.

Visitation will take place at 9221 Hwy 105, Waycobah on Tuesday, June 23rd, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, June 25th at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed St. Kateri Parish, Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, We’koqma’q with Father Frank Pellrin officiating. Burial in the parish cemetery. A salite will follow.

Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com