Ella Eldred

She was born Ella Mildred Close, on July 6, 1922, in Sharon, Connecticut, to Edwin and Julia Hinman Close.

Raised in Pawling, she was a graduate of Pauling High School.

Ella married Carlton Eldred on Jan. 19, 1944, in Oneonta. Carl predeceased her on Jan. 12, 2004, after some 60 years of marriage.

During the years 1942-44, she worked at Scintilla and later in life, Bresee's Department Store, Oneonta, as well as in delivering Meals on Wheels with her husband. Ella's main focus was always in supporting her husband and family, raising three sons. Her husband Carl's work took her and the family from the states of Maine to Virginia. However in the early 1960's they moved back to Oneonta permanently, to a property on Wilber Lake Road, where they enjoyed remodeling their house, raising their sons. They specially enjoyed horses and all that surrounds country life. Ella along with Carl, also enjoyed square dancing and traveling.

She was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church.

She was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald and June Close and David and Barbara Close; as well as oldest son, Michael Eldred.

Ella is survived by her two remaining sons, Dennis Eldred and wife, Diane, and Scott Eldred and wife, Donna. She also had numerous nieces and nephews, 13 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Ella was very appreciative of her supportive family and special caregivers, who became like family to her, along with friends and neighbors who had helped her to remain in her home these past few years.

Arrangements have been made by Bookhout Funeral Home, for a graveside service in Milford Cemetery, Milford, at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helios Care, Oneonta.