E. Elaine Stone

E. Elaine Stone, 82, of Ashland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7th, at Providence Place in Pottsville. Born in Coal Township on July 31, 1943, Elaine was the devoted daughter of the late Ben and Ruth (Bensinger) Stone. Elaine dedicated much of her life to caring for others, often acting as the chauffeur for her large circle of friends. Whether accompanying them on shopping trips, to veterinary or doctor appointments, or on their weekly excursions, Elaine was always ready to lend a hand. Her generosity and willingness to help made her a cherished companion. A passionate games enthusiast, Elaine found joy in trips to the casino and card nights at the Keeners, where her competitive spirit shone. She delighted in these moments, creating lasting memories with those around them. She would often go to Atlantic City with her sister Sylvia, their mother, and occasionally cousin Betty Lou Herb. Elaine was a proud graduate of Ashland Area High School, Class of 1961, and served as Treasurer of her reunion group. She played an integral role in organizing celebrations and ensuring classmates remained connected over the years. Elaine devoted 42 years of service to the Ashland State Hospital as a Fiscal Clerk, where her warm personality and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on both families and colleagues. Her many enthusiastic trips to the Mount Carmel Area Public Library with her niece Karen were invaluable in helping her other niece, Cindy, to construct the family tree. Hours in front of a microfiche and printer pieced together the lives of her Camp, Shoemaker and Stone ancestors in the area. She enjoyed learning about them and kept a special file of all the research papers and photos pertaining to her line. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. For over 70 years, Elaine was an active member of the United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Ashland. She contributed as a lecturer, choir member, and longtime Treasurer of the Ladies Society, demonstrating unwavering commitment to her church family. Additionally, Elaine was a dedicated member of the Ashland Area Rotary, serving in both President and Treasurer roles. Her leadership and service enriched the community and inspired those who worked alongside them. In addition to her parents, Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved fiancée, Daniel Perrin, sister Sylvia (Baum), brother-in-law Jerry Baum, and her niece, Karen Baum. She is survived by her loving niece, Cindy Boyko, and her husband, Johnny, as well as several cousins. Elaine’s most cherished friend and partner in adventures, Kay Ellen Kuchinsky, also mourns her loss, along with countless friends, her close-knit church family, and her feline companions, “Rusty” and “Tiger.” Relatives and friends are invited to attend Elaine’s Celebration of Life memorial service in the United Presbyterian Church in Ashland at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 28th, with The Reverend Doctor Hugh Vrablic/ David Heberling officiating. Visitation will begin at 10 AM until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Elaine’s name to the United Presbyterian Church at 200 North 9th Street, Ashland, Pa 17921 Elaine’s memory will live on in all who knew and loved her. The family invites you to share your memories and stories, joining in celebration of a life so generously shared with others. Condolences can be submitted to www.Fritzfuneralhome.com.  The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of E. Elaine Stone, please visit our floral store.