Ellen Stiteler

With immense sorrow, we announce the passing of Ellen Giddins Stiteler at age 87. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Belle Harbor, NY, Ellen was the daughter of Sam and Sylvia Leber. She graduated from the Berkeley Carroll School and Adelphi University and spent summers at Camp Che-Na-Wah. 

Ellen's greatest joy in life was her family. She raised her four children in Hewlett Neck, New York, and was a devoted grandmother to 14 adoring grandchildren. Alongside her beloved late husband, John Stiteler, Ellen created a life filled with love, family, and countless friends. She was known by all for her unrivaled strength, concern for others, grace, and elegance. 

Ellen began her career as an interior designer. Her remarkable skill and flair led her to build distinctive homes in Connecticut and Arizona, many featured in prominent design and architectural magazines. Ellen was also one of the first female commercial brokers in New York. With Newmark & Company, she was pivotal in converting properties across Lower 5th  Avenue, Park Avenue South, Chelsea, and Astor Place. Later, with Edward S. Gordon, she contributed to the sales of landmarks such as The Stanhope Hotel and the Henri Bendel Building.  In Arizona, Ellen and John built assisted living facilities to create welcoming and dignified communities for seniors. 

Ellen split her time between her beautiful homes in Washington, Connecticut, and Paradise Valley, Arizona. She was actively involved with The Heard Museum in Phoenix and Hospice of the Valley of Arizona. 

Ellen is survived by her children—Paul (Liz), Laurie, Amy (Michael), and John (Melissa); her grandchildren—Marley (Dan), Rebecca, Alison, Sam, Brody, Max, Samantha, Annie, Maggie, Payne, Reagan, Elena, Jack, and Henry; as well as her brother Stephen Leber (Ann), and brother-in-law, Barry Giddins.  A celebration of her life will be held this Spring.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ellen Stiteler, please visit our floral store.