IN MEMORIAM: Elna Mae F. George, 92;
Lifelong Resident Headed National Assoc.
ONEONTA – Oneonta native Elna Mae Finch George, 92, former national president of the National Rural Letter Carriers Auxiliary, passed away on March 15, 2017, at Fox Nursing Home, surrounded by her family.
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 Aug. 2, 1947 in Oneonta.. 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.
She was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church, 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 Fox Hospital for over 20 years, and with the Catskill Symphony Orchestra and the county Board of Elections.. 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 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.
She will be sadly missed by her three daughters, Sally George (Debra) of San Francisco, Paula George of Oneonta, and Cindy (Scott) Speanburgh of Winter Springs, Fla., two grandchildren, Lauren (Austin) Spivey of Tampa, Fla., Megan (Jake) Cummins of Jacksonville, Fla. and great grandson, Wyatt Spivey.
She was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Margaret George, and her brother, Charles Finch.
Calling hours are 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 24, at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main St. A celebration of Elna’s life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 25, the First Presbyterian Church, Oneonta, with the Rev. Mark Montfort, pastor, officiating.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Fox Nursing Home for the thoughtful and amazing care given to Elna. Their kindness can never be repaid, but will always