Eleanor Barrett, Insurance Journalist, Dies

This is a sad one to write. I learned earlier today from a colleague that Eleanor Barrett, an insurance journalist died. Her death was reported on her Facebook page and in the obituary column of The Newark Star-Ledger. Barrett died of a heart attack at the age of 46, according to the Star-Ledger. She is survived by her daughter Kristy and her mother, Cathy Barrett.

Barrett worked for Deloitte LLP in New York. Previously, she worked as a reporter for A.M. Best Co. in Oldwick, N.J. Barrett’s journalism career also included a stint with the Star-Ledger. She was a regular attendee at meetings including the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Kansas City, Mo., and the National Conference of Insurance Legislators, Troy, N.Y.

I had come to know Eleanor through these meetings. She was a great journalist with a curious mind. But, when we caught up at meetings, what struck me most was how she loved her family. When she spoke about her daughter, she absolutely beamed. And, when she talked about caring for her dogs, she also just opened up. It didn’t surprise me that she would like animals because she had a kind heart. She will be missed on many levels. Rest in peace, Eleanor.