M. Elaine Mitchell

Marguerite Elaine Bodwell Mitchell (91) passed away in the early morning hours of December 18, 2025. Born on April 6, 1934 in Laconia, New Hampshire, Elaine spent her early years living on a dairy farm in Sanbornton, New Hampshire before moving to Waltham, MA for elementary school. Waltham was her home for more than seven decades, and the place that she raised her family together with her high school sweetheart, David L. Mitchell. Elaine is a 1952 graduate of Waltham High School and a 1956 graduate of Boston University.

Known as “Mrs. Mitchell” to countless students who passed through her doors at Plympton Elementary School in Waltham, Elaine was a lively and dedicated teacher who greeted every day with a wide smile. Her many friends will remember her as a great conversationalist and someone who was never embarrassed to lead the way in belting out a patriotic song. Her graciousness, elegance and exemplary character were qualities greatly admired by all whose lives she touched: her myriad of students, her many friends and family, and her husband David, who she lovingly cared for until his passing in June 2017.

Elaine spent the final three years of her life at Life Care Center of Acton, where she quickly earned the nickname “Teach”. She was surrounded by kindness and received exceptional care from the devoted and loving staff.

Elaine is survived by her children Todd Mitchell of Cascais, Portugal, Stacey Mitchell and her partner Robert Pinette of Maynard, Brad Mitchell and his wife, Lori, of Franklin, and Jodi Mitchell and her husband, Robert Villano, of Hobe Sound, FL; her former son-in-law, Robert Sweeney; her grandchildren, Naia Mitchell and Giana Mitchell, Daniel Sweeney and his wife, Kathleen, Taylor Sweeney and Mitchell Sweeney, Kieran Mitchell and Finn Mitchell, and Catherine Villano; and her great-grandchild Emma Sweeney.

Elaine was the daughter of the late Jonathon and Margery (Meader) Bodwell and sister of the late Robert Bodwell.

A private family service will honor Elaine’s life.