Elsie M. Douthett

Elsie May Douthett was born on May 20,1926 in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, to Russell and Vesta Gerwig. She spent most for her life in this small western Pennsylvania town. She excelled in school. She met Bud, the love of her life, through correspondence during World War II. A relative gave Elsie, Bud’s address in India and a monthly letter grew into weekly then daily love notes. They married in 1944 and were blessed with four daughters, eight grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.

Shortly, after the birth of their first of four daughters, Bud was diagnosed with TB. He was still in the Army Air Force and was sent to a sanitarium in Colorado. Elsie was a single mom for the next 18 months living with her parents and able to visit Bud only a couple times.

Elsie tended to define herself as Bud’s wife and was proud of his accomplishments. In her own right, Elsie excelled as a stay at home mom and devoted herself to husband and daughters. She supported the scouting and school activities of her children. She was also active in the Historical Society and the Zelienople Public Library. Antiques were acquired from family ancestors which sparked an interest in browsing antique malls and visiting fairs. Eventually, their home was filled with antiques (large and small).

As a member of Grace Church in Harmony, PA, Elsie was Sunday school superintendent for the primary grades (K though 3) and coordinated Vacation Bible School. She was the flannel graph queen when telling Bible stories. She initiated the Lenten lunches and Christmas hanging of the greens. The Douthett home was always open to visiting missionaries and support of missions was a priority for Elsie. She actively participated and led Bible studies until her mid-eighties. She enjoyed hosting special meals in her home for holidays, especially the Easter Brunch after sunrise service. Her cookies were a favorite with her grandchildren.

Following Bud’s retirement, he and Elsie travelled over the USA actually visiting all fifty states. Of course, their favorite trips were to visit their daughters and grandchildren. Bud went home to be with the Lord in 2008. Elsie moved to Texas in 2011 to be near family members. Many Pennsylvania friends have maintained contact with cards and calls. She joined Town North Presbyterian Church where she was warmly welcomed. She faithfully attended worship and took the prayer sheets home. She would ask who family members were for those on the prayer list and prayed diligently for those requests.

Elsie had a strong faith. She read scripture daily and was faithful in praying for loved ones. We rejoice that she is walking with the Lord today and we will miss her.