Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly - Cincinnati, OH

06/18/2026

06/17/2026

It is with sadness that we share the passing of longtime Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly volunteer, donor, and friend, Elaine Murray, on June 10, 2026.



Elaine embodied the spirit of LBFE's guiding philosophy, "Flowers Before Bread," believing that companionship, joy, and human connection are just as essential as meeting basic needs. A committed visiting volunteer, Elaine shared a special friendship with LBFE elder Grace Ciolino. Together they navigated life's joys and challenges, supporting one another through Grace's transition to nursing home care and Elaine's loss of her beloved husband, Tom. Their friendship was built on love, laughter, and mutual care.



Elaine was a pillar of our Third Thursday Nursing Home Program, generously sharing her culinary talents, providing transportation, and bringing warmth and engagement to every gathering. Many of our elderly friends fondly remember her homemade Irish Soda Bread, which became a cherished tradition at our St. Patrick's Day celebrations.



Her generosity extended far beyond volunteering. During challenging financial times, Elaine quietly ensured our elders could continue enjoying the annual B&B Riverboat Cruise by providing support and insisting that the trip go on. She faithfully donated bananas for holiday meal bags and consistently found ways to meet the needs of others through her kindness, compassion, faith, and love.



Elaine's life was a beautiful example of friendship, service, and generosity. Her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched and the many acts of kindness she inspired.



Service Details

Visitation

Thursday, June 18, 2026

9:30–11:00 a.m.

Saint Clement Catholic Church

4536 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45217

Mass of Christian Burial

Thursday, June 18, 2026

11:00–11:45 a.m.

Saint Clement Catholic Church

4536 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45217

Burial

Thursday, June 18, 2026

12:00 p.m.

Saint Mary Cemetery and Mausoleum

701 E Ross Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45217



Please join us in keeping Elaine's family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers

06/02/2026

Thank you to our generous Auction & Raffle Donors!

Because of your support, the LBFE 29th Anniversary Gala – Flowers Before Bread raised over $61,000 to help ensure that older adults in our community are surrounded with friendship, dignity, and connection.

Every donor featured played a meaningful role in making this impact possible. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and your heart for our mission.

05/28/2026

WOW. ❤️ Because of YOU, Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly - Cincinnati, OH raised an incredible $61,008.94 at our 29th Anniversary Gala!!!

Thank you to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, board members, staff, and community for helping us continue creating meaningful friendships and reducing isolation among older adults in Cincinnati.

“Flowers Before Bread” reminded us that dignity, connection, and companionship are essentials — not luxuries. Because of your generosity, our elderly friends will continue to feel seen, valued, and loved.

📅 Save the Date: April 10, 2027
Join us as we celebrate 30 Years of Impact & Legacy ❤️

05/27/2026

We are grateful to share that Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly - Cincinnati, OH has been awarded a $25,000 grant through the Boots on the Ground Fund fromGreater Cincinnati Foundation and the City of Cincinnati!

This funding will help us expand critical programs that address chronic social isolation among older adults aging alone in our community. Through Friendly Visiting, Telephone Reassurance calls, wellness check-ins, meal deliveries, and community gatherings, we are able to provide meaningful connection, emotional support, and access to essential resources for vulnerable elders across Cincinnati.

More than half of the elders we serve live on low incomes and face barriers to stable housing, nutritious food, healthcare, and social connection. This investment helps ensure older adults can age safely, with dignity, and with a renewed sense of belonging.

Thank you to Greater Cincinnati Foundation and the City of Cincinnati for investing in programs that strengthen our community and remind our elderly friends they are never alone. ❤️

05/26/2026

Join us tomorrow at the Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio Hamilton County 513Relief Healthy Aging Summit!

Our Executive Director, Ja’Lah Willingham, will be featured on the Healthy Aging Summit Panel of Experts, sharing her expertise on the impacts of loneliness and isolation among older adults in our region.

Ja’Lah will join local leaders and advocates in an important conversation about the aging services, community support, and improving quality of life for older adults across Hamilton County.

We hope to see you there as we come together to support healthy aging in our community!

Meals on Wheels Southwest OH & Northern KY Pro Seniors, Inc. Serving Older Adults Through Changing Times Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece

05/21/2026

🍰 With heartfelt appreciation…

We are proud to recognize JCakes Cincinnati as the Dessert Sponsor for the upcoming LBFE 29th Anniversary Gala — and to celebrate the incredible woman behind the brand, Jennifer Tilford, who also serves on our Gala Committee.

Jennifer, thank you for sharing your talent, your time, and your heart with LBFE. Your commitment to our mission shines through both your leadership and your craft, and we are truly grateful for the sweetness you bring to this year’s celebration. 💛

We can’t wait for our guests to experience the magic of JCakes Cincinnati at the gala.

05/19/2026

🍷🔥 LIVE AUCTION SPOTLIGHT: Chef Maurice’s Dinner for 4!

Get ready for a culinary experience that’s pure magic! ✨

Chef Maurice, owner and Executive Chef of Maurice’s Restaurant Group — home to French Toast Heaven and Maurice’s BBQ — will bring his signature flair to your table for an unforgettable evening.

🍽️ Your Experience
• A four course gourmet meal designed and prepared by Chef Maurice himself
• Served with your favorite bottle of wine to complete the night
• Choose your setting: your private residence or an exclusive after hours dinner at French Toast Heaven
• Date to be mutually agreed upon with Chef Maurice

This is your chance to savor the artistry of one of Cincinnati’s most beloved chefs — a night of flavor, laughter, and connection that supports LBFE’s mission to ensure no elder ages alone.

💫 Bid Big at the LBFE 29th Anniversary Gala!

Every paddle raised helps create friendship, joy, and community for our elders.

05/17/2026

🌆✨ LIVE AUCTION SPOTLIGHT: Hotel Blake Chicago Getaway!

Pack your bags for a Windy City escape that blends luxury, history, and heart! Bid for a 4 night stay at the stunning Hotel Blake Chicago, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort — all donated in celebration of LBFE's 29th Anniversary Gala.

🏨 Your Experience
• 4 nights in the heart of downtown Chicago
• Room size based on availability
• Winner coordinates directly with the donor to plan their stay
• Dates must be mutually agreed upon
• Certificate expires May 23, 2027

From skyline views to world class dining, this getaway is your chance to live the Chicago dream — while helping LBFE ensure no elder ages alone.

💫 Bid Big at the LBFE 29th Anniversary Gala!
Every paddle raised fuels friendship, joy, and connection for older adults across our community.

05/16/2026

We are deeply grateful for the incredible partners who make our mission possible.

Because of the generosity of our 2026 Sponsors, older adults across Greater Cincinnati know they can find connection, friendship, and joy all year long.

Please join us in celebrating these champions of compassion, community, kindness, and friendship. Your support helps ensure no elder faces aging alone. ❤️