Awanda B. Olmstead, 89, a long-time Oneonta resident, passed into the Lord’s eternal care on November 4, 2019 at Robinson Terrace Nursing Home in Stamford, NY under the compassionate care of nursing staff, Hospice professionals and volunteers, and church family members.
Awanda Belle Aldrich was born on January 12, 1930 in East Masonville, daughter of Cecil B. and Anna B. (Gifford) Aldrich. She was a 1949 graduate of Sidney Central High School and a 1950 graduate of NYS Agricultural & Technical Institute (now SUNY Delhi) where she was a Commercial major, participated in Chorus, and worked on the Oracle campus newspaper.
On October 9, 1950 she married Lester H. Olmstead with whom she had a daughter Lulu Belle. They lived on Otsego Street where Awanda and her mother started a garden. They would take cuttings from the plants to give to passer-bys and anyone who wanted one. Lester predeceased Awanda on January 6, 1997.
Awanda worked as a secretary at Clarkson Electric in Oneonta which honored her in 1979 after 20 years for her work above and beyond the call of duty which included rewinding motors for customers. She always thought the best of people and went out of her way to assist others without a thought of anything in return.
A member of First United Presbyterian (the “Red Door” Church) since 1960, Awanda served as a Trustee, Assistant Financial Secretary, Greeter and Usher, on the Sanctuary Guild, office volunteer, and even Church Sexton for a time. She was active with Presbyterian Women, the Golden Gang, the kitchen crew and more. She played with children so parents could attend choir rehearsals. She is best remembered for being cheerful and fun. She encouraged others on Sunday morning and during her visitation and care of the elderly. She was also a former member of the Davenport Grange 1516.
Awanda was a long-time volunteer cook and server at The Lord’s Table offering free hot meals weekdays in Oneonta. She shared God’s love with people in all stations of life. Her sense of humor and quick wit will be missed.
She is survived by daughter Lu Apple of El Paso, Texas; two grandsons Thomas and Victor and their families of Arizona; as well as a loving extended family.
She was also predeceased by a brother Murton Aldrich and a step-daughter Joyce Penwell of West Pittsburgh, PA.
A memorial service to honor Awanda’s life of faith and service will be held in the spring. Burial of ashes will be in Schenevus Cemetery.
In Awanda’s memory donations may be made to First United Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820.
To leave a condolence for Awanda’s family online, please visit www.grummonsfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home of Oneonta.
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