Eileen "Lee" E. McIlhinney

Eileen E. (Lee) McIlhinney, age 80, of Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026 after a protracted illness. She was born in Philadelphia to Helen E. (Green) and Frank X. McIlhinney.

Having obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Temple University, she served the parents and children of Philadelphia for decades as a Special Education teacher. Her unwavering compassion and love of children and learning made her ideally suited to guide her students. Eileen had a love for animals as well and there was always a place in her heart, and often her home for any cat or dog that needed to be rescued. She loved nature and particularly the beach at Ocean City, New Jersey.

Lee will be lovingly missed by her sister Joan Marie Malatesta, nephews Patrick C. McIlhinney (Lisa), Michael Malatesta (Kim), Sean J. McIlhinney (Heather) and Francis J. Malatesta (Natalie), great nephews Patrick, Matthew, Connor, McKeith and Robert and great nieces Molly and Mykaela. Her beloved brother, F. Patrick McIlhinney (Sandi) predeceased her.

A memorial service for Lee will be set for some time in the future. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice. Or, in the true spirit of Eileen, consider adopting a rescued pet yourself.

Services entrusted to the Joseph J. McGoldrick Funeral Home, Jenkintown, PA. 

Condolences: www.McGoldrickFH.com