Elaine Bohrer of West Sayville, New York, founder and president of Lighthouse Mission, Inc. of Patchogue, died on June 26, 2007. She was 69. Known and loved by thousands as Sister Elaine, Bohrer was not a nun but simply a woman who served God and was part of the family known as brothers and sisters in Christ.

“We know that our founder has passed on to spend eternity with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” said one of her Mission co-laborers who worked with her to feed the working poor and homeless on Long Island. Sister Elaine trusted her life to Jesus. Jesus said, ‘Whoever believes in me shall not die but have eternal life.’

Sister Elaine was born and raised in St. Albans, Queens, and raised her children in West Sayville. After becoming a widow she received a vision from God to “feed the poor.” Armed with just 10 bologna and cheese sandwiches and a message of God’s love, she took to the streets of Suffolk County to reach out to the poor. This was how she began Lighthouse Mission, Inc. in 1992, a nonprofit organization that many churches and individuals support.

Fifteen years later the Mission now feeds and provides guidance and assistance to approximately 80,000 men, women and children every year. The Mission has helped people and families from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, race or religion. She was the “beacon of light” that helped so many people in need.

Sister Elaine leaves behind a family who deeply loved her and served the poor alongside her: a daughter Pam and son-in-law Tim Gillen of Bohemia; a son Todd of Sayville; five grandchildren and two foster children.

Her staff will miss her leadership and friendship tremendously. She was an amazing woman!