Elaine Costa Carroll, born March 14, 1943, in Oak Bluffs, passed peacefully on May 9, 2026, in Virginia, with loved ones by her side. Though she later moved away from Martha’s Vineyard, the Vineyard was always her true home, and she remained an Islander through and through.
Elaine was devoted to her family, and found her greatest joy in spending time with those she loved. She especially cherished her children and grandchildren, always finding thoughtful ways to stay close to them as the years passed.
Early in her career she was a real estate broker at Jane Brown Associates in Edgartown, before becoming a paralegal for attorney Rosemarie Hagazian.
A creative spirit, Elaine loved making beautiful baskets, wreaths, and coasters, sharing her talent and warmth with others through the things she created by hand. She also loved baking brownies, cupcakes, and other sweet treats — a passion that began in her youth while working at Walmsley’s Bakery in Oak Bluffs as a student.
Elaine enjoyed traveling, and embraced opportunities to see new places and visit family. For many years she was able to spend winters in Florida, avoiding the cold New England winters. She enjoyed traveling with her Vineyard friends to Ireland, Barbados, and Croatia. She also treasured trips to Colorado and South Carolina to spend time with her children.
She was an active and dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Martha’s Vineyard, and truly lived by the organization’s motto, “Service Above Self.”
Elaine was known for her grace and style, and could almost always be seen wearing one of her scarves adorned with a lovely brooch. Following protocols of the Emily Post Institute, Elaine taught many classes at the Vineyard Montessori School about grace and manners.
Later in life, Elaine was fortunate to reconnect with her high school sweetheart, with whom she shared the last 15 years of her life.
She is survived by her son, Michael T. Carroll and his wife Carol Carroll; her daughter, Elizabeth J. Carroll (Stephen); her beloved granddaughters, Monica A. Carroll and Molly J. Carroll; her companion of many years, Dan Hasting; her first husband, Michael Carroll; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Eugene A. Costa; her mother, Alberta E. Costa; and her sister, Jean E. Gomes.
Elaine will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, love, and devotion to family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her.
Her visitation will be held in the Chapman Funeral Home, Edgartown Road in Oak Bluffs, on Thursday, May 21, from 5 to 7 pm.
A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Friday, May 22, at 11 am, officiated by Fr. Joseph Pasala. Please arrive between 10 and 10:45 am. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Vineyard Haven. All are invited to the P.A. Club afterward; please bring a dish to share.