Mary Elnora Ocel, 96, of Mechanicstown, passed away peacefully in her home on her farm where she lived her entire life on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020.
She was born Sept. 7, 1923 to the late John D. and Blanche (Andrews) Reid.
Elnora was born and lived her entire life on the family farm. She never wanted to be anywhere else. She loved flowers in the summer and could often be found outside watering and enjoying them. She went line dancing at the Carrollton Friendship Center every Wednesday for years. She started collecting dolls as a therapy after she lost her daughter, Colleen in 1980. Raggedy Ann and Andy were her favorites and she often would dress up as Raggedy Ann and visit nursing homes, bringing treats and joy to the patients.
She was a member of the Herrington Bethel United Methodist Church and attended the Carrollton First United Methodist Church in her later years. Elnora and her husband rarely missed a Sunday.
She is survived by 2 sons, Craig (Diane) Ocel of Hammondsville, and Brad (Stephanie) Ocel of Mechanicstown; a daughter, Darcy (Richard) Baker of Carrollton; a son-in-law, Ed Lute of Mogadore; grandchildren, Shawn and Josh Ocel, Kyle Baker, Luke (Ashley) Baker and Joey and Jack Ocel; great grandson, Thayne Ocel; and her wonderful caregiver, Elaine Baker.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 69 ¾ years, John T. Ocel, who died in 2015; a daughter, Colleen Lute; 3 sisters and brothers-in-law, Bernice and Bob McClester, Sara and Bud Manfull, and Martha and Eddie Snode; and her good friend, Donna Jean Owens.
Funeral services will be Thursday, Feb. 6 at 12 noon in the Herrington Bethel United Methodist Church with Pastor Larry Hukil officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Calling hours will be one hour prior to services from 11-12 at the church.
The family would like to thank Crossroads Hospice for their care and ask that memorial contributions may be made to them in lieu of flowers.
Those wishing to send condolences may sign online at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.
For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.
