NORTHBOROUGH

Elaine L. (Ball) Coccari passed away suddenly on September 1, 2021, after suffering a cardiac episode; she was 65 years old. Elaine was the beloved wife of 35 years, partner and best friend to Paul E. Coccari. Born in Boston, Mass on November 26, 1955, Elaine was one of three children to the late Richard and Josephine (Lombardozzi) Ball. She was raised in Shrewsbury, graduated Shrewsbury High School and earned her nursing degree from Quinsigamond Community College – Nursing program. In addition to her husband Paul, Elaine leaves a brother, Steven P. Ball of Worcester. She was preceded in death by her other brother, Dr. Richard Ball, in 2010.

Elaine worked as a registered nurse within many facets of medical care, from the emergency room to dialysis. For the past 19 years she focused on home health care. In every department she worked, Elaine found direct patient care most rewarding. She was loved by her patients and coworkers alike. Despite facing the increasingly difficult challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, Elaine's determination kept her love of nursing a priority. It wasn't uncommon to see her work 7 days a week, dedicating every ounce of energy to her patients' needs. Elaine was truly a beautiful person with a caring soul. Her empathy for all people, most especially her patients, was deep and heartfelt.

With a desire to travel, Elaine and Paul looked forward to getting away to visit relatives and friends. Even though the MS slowed her a bit, Elaine still enjoyed getting to Cape Cod and the Islands as many times as possible. She enjoyed sewing and was a big fan of music from the 1960's; she could sing the words to any song that you could name.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, September 7, from 5-7 p.m. at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 375 Kings Highway North Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08034 (mymsaa.org).

To leave a condolence, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.org.