Ellen Harrison of Newton, MA passed away on February 7, 2021 at the age of 71. She is survived by her loving family, including her husband, John Guinan, Jr., their three daughters, Sarah Harrison, Liza Ashbrook, and Molly Harrison, four grandchildren, Charlie Van Heuvelen, 7, Ella Harrison, 4, Evie Ashbrook, 6, and Rowan Ashbrook, 3, as well as her brother Fred Harrison, her sister Amy Michael, her mother, Gloria Friedman, and her dog, Gus. Ellen passed suddenly three weeks after contracting Covid-19. She had worked as a dentist in Newton for over forty years. Ellen loved the outdoors, hiking trails with John throughout New England. She particularly loved summer weeks with her family on Sandy Island, a family camp in New Hampshire. At home in Newton Highlands, Ellen nurtured many beautiful plants and enjoyed watching birds visit her birdfeeder. An avid reader, Ellen also loved reading books with her grandchildren. She will be so sorely missed. A virtual memorial service will be held shortly on a date and time to be announced. For updated information, a more complete obituary, photos and a guestbook please visit: www.oneillfuneral.com. A donation can be made in Ellen’s honor to the Massachusetts Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy or the ACLU.
When I think of Ellen a few images come to mind. Watching her walk around Sandy, legitimately birdwatching. The smile on her face as we sat on the porch after breakfast, catching up on life. And of course, Ellen and John slow dancing on an empty dance floor, seemingly the only couple in the world.
Love you, Mom. Can't imagine life without you.
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My family and I just found out about your passing today. We all loved going to your office and you helped me personally not be afraid of the dentist. You were approachable and kind. Your loss hurts. See you on the other side!
Ellen was my dentist for 20 years. I always enjoyed my appointments with her — who says that about their dentist? She was a consummate professional and a delightful person. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
I am just finding out today of Dr. Harrison’s passing. I am so very sad to hear this. I had her as a dentist for about 20 years and loved her. The work she did on my teeth changed my life and I will be forever grateful to her. I always enjoyed my visits and she made going to the dentist something to look forward to. My thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family.
I was heartbroken to learn recently of Ellen’s passing. I never imagined I would ever look forward to going to the dentist.That changed 25 years ago when I walked into her office.I appreciated her calm professionalism and kindness, and our warm conversations.We bonded over escaping from neighboring LI towns to MA. She will be sorely missed!
