Elsie Carol Colella passed peacefully in her sleep May18th after a brief illness. She was born in Endicott New York in 1936 to Maynard and Myra Lee, and was the middle sister to Gloria and Phyllis. She was a 1954 graduate of Vestal High School and was extremely proud to earn her bachelor's degree from Cortland Teacher's College in 1958. After raising a family during the 60's and 70's, Elsie began a fulfilling career at Brookside Elementary School as a teacher. Elsie was an active member of High Street Methodist Church and American Association of University Women. She enjoyed aerobics, book club, playing the piano, cooking and spending time at her cottage on Cayuga Lake. Elsie was predeceased by her husband Phillip and her adoring son John. She is survived by her devoted sons Brad and Jim (Karen Eaton), her beloved and only grandson James, daughter in law Carolyn Kelly Colella, and brother's in law Dr. Michael Colella and Richard Ormiston, loving nieces Amy, Beth and Mary as well as nephews, Todd and Lee. Surrounded by her husband and boys, Elsie reigned quietly in her refined Binghamton home. Her delicate stature belied a tenacity and grace in the face of challenges that was remarkable. Her guidance, subtle humor and sweetness will be dearly missed by those lucky to mourn her. Gentle Mother Quiet Light Morning Star So strong and bright Gentle Mother Peaceful Dove Teach us Wisdom Teach us Love The family would like to thank Melinda Lawrence for the strength and clarity she brings during the hardest of times, as well as the aides at Castle Gardens for their compassionate care of Elsie in her final year. Please join the family for calling hours 10am-11am on Saturday, May 27th at Coleman and Daniels Funeral Home, 765 Main St, Vestal, NY. A graveside service will follow at Riverhurst Cemetery in Endwell, NY.