Chon Se Elms

Chon Se ''Kim" Elms, age 92, of Austin, Texas, departed this world peacefully on July 28, 2025, at her home on Bodark Lane. Born on February 18, 1933, in Seoul, Korea. Kim's journey through life was as remarkable as it was inspiring. She was a loving mother, a devoted partner, a tireless caregiver, and a cherished friend to many.

Kim's early life was shaped by history, as she lived through both World War II and the Korean War. Her resilience and compassion shone brightly during her service as a POW nurse during the Korean War. Despite the adversities she faced, she pursued knowledge tirelessly, teaching herself to fluently speak Korean, Japanese, and English.

After her time in Korea, Kim worked as both a nurse and a waitress at the NCO Club on the military base in Korea and later in Austin, Texas, following her husband Raymond A. Elms Sr.'s transfer and retirement in the United States. Though Raymond Sr. passed away when their son was quite young, Kim remained the steady heart of her family, later finding companionship and support in her partner, Ernest E. Butler, until his passing in 2019.

Kim's home was forever open – her kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly made-from-scratch dishes, especially her beloved egg rolls. She found great joy in cooking for others, ensuring everyone who walked through her door felt cared for and nourished. "It is always better to give than to receive," she would say, living a life centered on generosity and selflessness.

An avid gardener, Kim too pride in her yard, making frequent trips to nurseries for new plants and transforming her garden into the envy of her neighborhood. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life; she spent hours each day reading her Bible, singing gospel songs on the piano – often accompanied by her sons – and participating in church activities and weekly Bible study sessions. Her volunteer efforts at church donation sales reflected her deep commitment to her community and her faith.

Kim is survived by her son, Raymond A. Elms Jr., and is reunited in peace with her son Jimmy Lee Elms, her husband Raymond A. Elms Sr., and her partner Ernest E. Butler.

A visitation for Chon will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749. A funeral service will occur on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 11:00 AM at 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749. A graveside service will occur on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 12:30 PM at Onion Creek Memorial Park, 11610 Chapel Ln, Austin, TX 78748.