Eileen Podlas (Mema)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eileen McGowan Podlas, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the community of Manchester, VT, who left us on October 30, 2023. Her light, warmth, and boundless love touched countless lives, and she will forever be remembered for her joyful spirit and deep compassion. Born July 30, 1949 in Newark, New Jersey, Eileen was a beacon of strength and resilience. Throughout her life, she devoted herself to love, and challenged the things she believed were unjust. She lived passionately through her family, as well as through her work in crisis centers for women seeking shelter from abuse. Her stories of days gone by, filled with lessons of perseverance and hope, were a testament to a life well-lived. She had a gift for bringing joy and laughter into every room she entered and was known for her infectious smile and kind heart. She showed her love through food and cooking for friends and family. She was an active member of her community, where she offered her time and talents in various roles, always with the intention of serving others. Her faith was unwavering, and was a place where she found guidance, strength, and solace. Eileen is survived by her children, Laura Frank, Julia Craig and Joseph Podlas; by her grandchildren, Nathaniel, Sophie, Emily, Lily, Emi, Lucy, Henry, Joseph, Noah, and her sister Peggy Halevi. They, along with countless friends and relatives, will dearly miss her laughter, homemade meals, and warm embrace. A celebration of Eileen's remarkable life will be held at the First Congregational Church in Manchester, VT, on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the NewStory Center in Rutland, Vermont https://www.nscvt.org/give/donate-2/ May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.