Elna Mae Finch George

Elna was born May 29, 1924 in Oneonta, the daughter of Charles and Eunice Belle Murray Finch. She was a graduate of Oneonta High School.

Elna married James Paul George on August 2, 1947 in Oneonta, NY. They were married for 46 years. He predeceased her on April 29, 1994.

Elna was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed taking care of her home and family. Elna was an avid gardener, known for her beautiful spring garden and flower arrangements. She also excelled in baking, known for her delicious pies and baked goods she brought to many events.

Elna was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, where she served on several committees, her favorite being the Social Committee. Elna loved Oneonta and enjoyed being active in the community. She was a member of the Oneonta Federated Garden Club, where she previously served as librarian and was chairperson of the 1991 National award winning flower show. She was a volunteer at A.O. Fox Hospital for over twenty years and volunteered with the Catskill Symphony Orchestra. She was also a member of the former Oneonta Women’s Club. Elna was a member of the Otsego County Rural Letter Carriers Auxiliary, and went on to serve as New York State President. One of her proudest achievements was being able to serve as President of the National RLCA Auxiliary, which allowed her to travel throughout the United States raising awareness of her platform, the American Heart Association. Elna also volunteered for the Board of Elections.

She will be sadly missed by her three daughters, Sally George (Debra) of San Francisco, CA, Paula George of Oneonta, NY and Cindy (Scott) Speanburgh of Winter Springs, FL, two grandchildren, Lauren (Austin) Spivey of Tampa, FL, Megan (Jake) Cummins of Jacksonville, FL and great grandson, Wyatt Spivey.

She was predeceased by her sister in law, Margaret George, and her brother, Charles Finch.

Friends may call on Friday, March 24th between 6pm and 8pm at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main St, Oneonta, NY. A celebration of Elna’s life will be held on Saturday, March 25th at 11am at the First Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, 296 Main Street, Oneonta, with Reverend Mark Montfort officiating.

The family would like to thank the staff at the A. O. Fox Nursing Home for the thoughtful and amazing care given to Elna. Their kindness can never be repaid, but will always be remembered. The family would also like to thank the Catskill Area Hospice for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for contributions to be made to the American Heart Association or the Catskill Area Hospice, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820. Please make these contributions in the memory of Elna George.

To light a candle or send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com

Funeral arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home of Oneonta.