Eleanor is an author, local museum volunteer, and a beloved aunt, great aunt, and sister. Her first and only film role was as a widow in the movie Paper Moon, starring Ryan O'Neill. Eleanor got the part because some scenes were being filmed in her hometown, and she thought it would be interesting to check it out. While the success of the film was a thrill to Eleanor, she has continued to live a quiet life writing, staying active, and gardening. Eleanor lives in Hays, Kansas with her partner of over 60 years, Wilda Smith.