Ellen Little Stratton passed away June 2, 2021. She was a beloved mother, sister, wife, friend, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother. Her good looks were only outmatched by her intelligence and wit. A straight-A student turned exceptional business woman, she knew what she wanted out of life, so she went out and got it.
Ellen married the love of her life, Laird “Buck” Stratton, in 1963 and raised their beautiful family here in New Jersey. After retiring from real estate, she spent her days doing the things she loved: traveling with friends, going to Monmouth Park, reading English mysteries and finding a great happy hour with her best friend of 60 years, Patty Murphy. Ellen was ferociously loyal and dedicated to her family and friends. She was a fantastic cook, knew how to throw a great party and was the person you always wanted in your corner.
Ellen was predeceased by her husband Buck; daughter Victoria; sisters, Edie Little Hermo and Joan Little; brother Gerald Little; and beloved dog Poncho.
Ellen is survived by her daughter Gail Zick and her husband Paul; three sons, Gene Berardo and his wife Audrey, Rick Berardo and his wife Joan and Laird Stark Stratton and his wife Jillian; her sister-in-law Christine Grimley; and best friends Patricia Murphy and Joan Duckers; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Each one misses her deeply but is comforted that she and Buck are finally together again.
Visitation was June 6 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A graveside service was held June 7 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Rumson First Aid.
The article originally appeared in the June 10 – 16, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
