Ellen P. McKenney July 24, 1946 April 17, 2013 Portland - Ellen P. McKenney, 66, passed away peacefully eleven years after being diagnosed with a terminal illness surrounded by her family at Saint Joseph's Rehabilitation and Residence on April 17, 2013. Ellen's courage and character amazed anyone who had the opportunity to meet her. Ellen was born on July 24, 1946 in Washington DC. She was raised in Portland , the eldest child of John and Catherine Lee's nine children. Ellen attended Portland schools and worked in early childhood development at East End Children's Workshop for over 28 years until her illness forced her to retire. Ellen loved hosting family gatherings, walking Baxter Boulevard, fishing and especially enjoyed her trip to Italy shortly before her illness. Above all, Ellen's passion was children. From helping her parents with her eight younger brothers and sisters; to raising her three sons and spending time with her three grandkids, along with teaching the countless numbers of kids who she had in class. Ellen was pre-deceased by her parents, John J and Catherine Lee and her two brothers Rocco and Dennis. She is survived by her children; Michael of Portland, Joseph and his wife Christine of Gorham, Scott of Virginia and her grandchildren, Matthew, Adam and Ella. She is also survived by her sisters, Andrea Lee of Portland, Kathleen Horton of Alabama, Donna Lee of South Portland, Cynthia Berenson of Portland; her brothers, John Lee of the Philippines, Michael Lee of Florida and a number of nieces, nephews and cousins. Ellen was an extraordinary woman who will be deeply missed. Our family would like to thank the entire staff at Saint Joseph's Rehabilitation and Residence for the care and compassion they showed Ellen for over ten years. Friends and family are invited to a period of visitation from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 20, 2013 at A.T. Hutchins Funeral and Cremation Services, 660 Brighton Ave, Portland. Interment will be held at 9:00 AM, on Monday, April 22, 2013 at Calvary Cemetery, 1461 Broadway, South Portland. To offer words of condolence and share memories with the family, please go to the obituaries section at www.athutchins.com In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to: East End Children's Workshop 215 Congress St. Portland, Maine 04101