Ellen Kathleen Pacilio, 88 of Eastland, Texas, passed away Wednesday March 4, 2026, in Abilene, Texas. Visitation will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a Rosary to follow at 6:00pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Edwards Funeral Home, 411 S. Mulberry St, Eastland, Tx. The funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 11th at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1106 Ave. F, Cisco, Tx.
Ellen was born June 30,1937 in New York, NY to James Enright and Ellen Phelan Enright. She attended St. Mary’s College where she obtained a nursing degree. Her college roommate introduced Ellen to the love of her life, William (Bill) Pacilio. They were married on June 8, 1958, in Long Island City, NY. They welcomed three children: Ellen Marie, William (Bill) Joseph and Patricia (Tricia) Lynn before they moved to Arlington, Texas in the early 70’s.
Ellen was the most prayerful and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. In her earlier years, she was a talented seamstress and could be found behind her Singer sewing machine making clothes for her family as well as items for craft fairs. Her passion for literature and reading led her to pursue a second degree in English from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a longtime member of the American Association of University Women, the Association’s annual bookfair was a highlight for her as books were her joy. Bill and Ellen’s marriage was a ministry as they served the Lord at their home parish, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. They worked together volunteering for Meals on Wheels as well as the St. Vincent De Paul Society. Ellen relished working in the garden and religiously spritzed her plants as she spoke to them. Most recently she found a new hobby in hydroponic gardening. Her perfect day would be waking up next to Bill, attending daily Mass, toiling in her garden, and curling up with her favorite book of the week. She was the proudest grandmother and great grandmother often touting the accomplishments of each of her 6 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
