Obituary of Rachel A. Elia

Rachel A. Elia, 88, residing at Heritage Village in Gerry NY, formerly of Camp Street in Jamestown, through the grace of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ left this world and entered God's presence on September 17, 2021. Rachel was born April 17, 1933 in Clymer, New York, the daughter of Sibley and Donna Wright. She was a strong woman of faith, walking with the Lord her entire life. This walk included membership at Camp Street United Methodist Church, where she served and participated in many activities including teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Choir, and even served as Church secretary for several years. Rachel was a graduate of Clymer High School and Jamestown Business College. She was employed in Jamestown by Dr. Ingham, and then by Dr. Robert Ney as a bookkeeper. She enjoyed activities such as baking, knitting, quilting, and ceramics. She was preceded in death by her husband Salvatore Elia, to whom she was married for over 62 years, as well as her parents; a brother, SFC Merle Wright; and sisters, Ruth Wallace and Kathleen Carpenter. Rachel is survived by two sons: James R. (Lisa) Elia of Jamestown and Daniel S. (Kristina) Elia of Fairport, NY; and three grandchildren: Marcus (Madison) Elia of Syracuse, NY, Megan Elia of Rochester, NY, and Ens. Matthew Elia of Norfolk, VA. She is also survived by her sister, Helen Wright of Gerry, NY. Rachel deeply loved her husband, children, and grandchildren, and would always put their needs above her own. She was also compassionate towards others, always willing to help anyone in need, whether a friend or a stranger. Calling hours will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, September 23rd in the Lind Funeral Home, with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM Thursday. Pastor Kevin Costner will officiate. Burial will be in Lake View Cemetery. The Elia family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Heritage Village and Bergquist Memorial in Gerry for the compassion, kindness, and care for Rachel. Memorials may be made to the Billy Graham Association at 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.