Elaine Messias

Elaine Messias (Geddes) passed away on September 25th, 2023. She died peacefully, with her devoted husband of 68 years, Robert Messias, by her side. Elaine was a loving mother to Marianne Pritchard, David Messias, Paul Messias, Mark Messias and wife Freya Messias, grandmother to Nicole, Robin, Kevin, Luke, Abby and Scott, and great-grandmother to seven beautiful great-grandchildren. She was also the sister of James Geddes and Robert Geddes, and a beloved cousin and aunt.

Elaine was a graduate of Emmanuel College, with a major in Chemistry. She earned her Master’s in Education from Lesley College. A passionate educator, Elaine spent most of her career teaching 5th graders at the Needham Public Schools, where you could often find her students outside, observing and writing about the sky. Elaine enjoyed square dancing and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. She always volunteered, helping with the League of Women Voters in Needham, and, in her retired life, the Ecumenical Council in Harwich. For years Elaine also served as a Sunday School teacher and staffed the Chatham Reading Room, along with her husband and a golden retriever or shepherd by her side.

Elaine loved her Cape Cod life, where she and Bob opened their home to family and friends. Elaine and Bob enjoyed their walks at Red River Beach, strolls through Chatham Center, and afternoon sails on Pleasant Bay.

Most of all, Elaine is remembered for her unconditional love, and the belief in the goodness of every person.