IN LOVING MEMORY

Eloise Rene McCorkle New

November 15, 1943-September 18, 2026

Eloise Rene McCorkle New of Merritt Island, FL, passed away on September 18, 2026. If you could ask her, she would tell you she was 29 years old. She is survived by her husband, Richard, daughters Kristina New and Bethany Kapusta, son-in-law Jason Kapusta, her brother Phil McCorkle, her grandsons Ethan and Miles Kapusta, and her sisters-in-law, Virginia Weatherman, Janet New, and Inez Petrie. She is pre-deceased by her sister, Carolyn Clark, and brother-in-law William Clark.

Rene was born November 15, 1943 in Havre de Grace, MD. Her parents, Viola (Laird) McCorkle and Stanley Arthur McCorkle moved around a lot in her childhood due to her father's Army career, and she spent time growing up in New York, Arizona, Korea, and Germany.

After attending Syracuse University and majoring in Human Development, Rene later got her masters degree from Western Connecticut State University in Elementary Education. A long-time resident and beloved teacher in Somers, NY, she spent over 20 years teaching, first in home economics, then as every student's favorite substitute, and finally full time again, mostly 5th grade in Somers Intermediate School. She was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Katonah, serving as a deacon and in the Stephen ministry, tackling the rummage sale, and volunteering at the food pantry.

She loved to travel and enjoyed RV trips across the US as well as adventures to the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and Australia.

Among other hobbies, Rene enjoyed playing Mah Jongg and Bridge with friends and neighbors, flower arranging, line dancing, water aerobics, and gardening.

Her home and heart were always open to her friends and her children's friends, and her chocolate chip cookies were famous in those circles.

A talented seamstress, Rene made Halloween costumes for the family, hosted elaborate family Thanksgiving meals, and made every Christmas magical for her children and grandchildren. She is the hero mom who got her daughters hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits to love.

A service will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Merritt Island. In lieu of flowers, her family asks you to please donate to the charity of your choice, or hers, Alzheimer's Association .