Eleanor (Ellie) Ann Guarneri

Eleanor Ann Guarneri, of Greensboro, passed away Friday, June 20, 2025, at the age of 89, most people called her Ellie. She was a devoted nurse, adventurer at heart, and woman of strong Catholic faith, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and joy. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Ellie later made her home in Smithtown, Long Island, where she resided for over 50 years before settling in the Del Webb Community at Lake Oconee. She found happiness in sailing, swimming, skiing, gardening, and especially traveling - spending winters in Briny Breezes, Florida, a place dear to her heart.

A graduate of 15 years of Catholic education, Ellie lived out her faith in word and deed, often volunteering her time to help others. Her greatest professional joy came from her career as an Operating Room Nurse, a role she fulfilled with dedication for over 40 years until her retirement in 1998. Even in retirement, she remained active—swimming, ballroom dancing, and enjoying the beauty of life around her.

She will be fondly remembered for her generous spirit, willingness to help others, as well as being an amazing mom, sister, and friend.

She was preceded in death by her son, Stephen Heim; first husband, Herman Heim; second husband, Salvatore Guarneri; and parents, James Joseph Hibbits and Marjorie Ellen Honold Hibbits.

Survivors include her daughter, Lori Heim; sister, Diane Sebba; niece, Lynda Marshall; Nephew, Kevin Marshall and wife Tracy; as well as several great-nieces, great-nephews, and step-children.

“Some people come into our lives and quickly go… some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.”

A memorial service for Ellie will be held at a later date.