Obituary of Ethel F. Cole

Ethel Frances (McPherson) Cole, 97, of Marcellus, NY passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, December 26, 2023.

Ethel was born on April 8, 1926 to John and Ella McPherson in International Falls, MN. She was the 9th of 10 children. Ethel met her husband Peter at a dance in Pasco, Washington where he was stationed in the US Navy. They moved back to Syracuse where Peter's family was. She and Peter then lived in Springfield, MA where he attended college. Ethel and Peter moved to Marcellus in 1955.

Ethel had various jobs as an adult, but her primary one was as a mother and homemaker. She was very active in her community. Ethel was a communicant of St. Francis Xavier Church, Marcellus where she was a Eucharistic Minister, choir member, and lector. She also would read to children at Marcellus Parent Nursery School. Ethel enjoyed volunteering at Marcellus Free Library. One of her proudest accomplishments was writing her autobiography for her children and grandchildren.

Ethel loved music, dancing, baking, walking around town, her family, friends and writing poetry. Her terrific sense of humor and ability to tell a story was a gift those who knew her cherished. Ethel loved being around people and was often the entertainer at the event.

The family is grateful for her many caregivers from New Beginnings Home Care who supported and cared for Ethel in her long battle with Alzheimer's. Thank you also goes out to Hospice who provided care and comfort to Ethel. ARYCSS was another part of the team that kept Ethel in her home, and her family is so grateful for the excellent care.

Ethel was predeceased by her husband of 65 years Peter; sons Robert and Peter. She is survived by her three daughters Nancy (John Anthony) Cole of Portland, OR, Mary (Jack Schra) Cole, of Eugene, OR and Melissa (Michael) Delaney of Marcellus; nine grandchildren Iris, Forest, Chelsea, Breana, Rachael, Mason, Josh, Ryan and Patrick; and four great-grandchildren Lorianna, Macy, Coltin and O'Neal.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10am, Saturday, December 30, 2023 in St. Francis Xavier Church, and the burial will follow at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Marcellus. There will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be given to Hospice of CNY & of the Finger Lakes, 990 Seventh North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088 or to the Marcellus Free Library, 32 Maple Street, Marcellus, NY 13108.