Elsa Sorley

Born in Akron, Ohio to Herman and Helen Motz on Oct. 9, 1931, Elsa arrived during the Great Depression — but she would tell you that it didn’t affect them one bit. Surrounded by a big, joyful extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins, she always said they had everything they needed. That happy spirit stuck with her throughout her 93 years. Her favorite things were always the same: family, friends, laughter and fun.

Even when memory faded in her later years, Elsa could still be counted on to say, again and again, “I’ve had a good life, great friends and a wonderful family.” And she meant it.

Elsa was the proud partner of James (Jim) Sorley of Ottawa, Canada, whom she married and organized (lovingly, of course) for 52 years. Jim was a Methodist minister, and Elsa was the CEO of Family Operations. Elsa served alongside Jim as he led congregations across the Northeast from Georgia, Vermont to North Chatham and Jonesville (Clifton Park), New York, and on to Lake Placid and St. Albans, Vermont.

Elsa is survived by four daughters, who she was very proud of: Margot (Bill), Sheila (Bill), Karen (Adam), Gwen (Peter); grandmother to seven, James, Ian, Alexis, Lauren, Cameron, Noah, Natalie; and great-grandmother to two, Cole and Charlotte. When told stories of what her grandchildren had accomplished, she would shake her head in wonder and say, “Whew. That just takes my breath away.”

Elsa was predeceased by her parents, her husband, and her sister, Lenore Lybarger.

Elsa never missed a reason to celebrate — Bobby Burns’ birthday, the Kentucky Derby, Tuesday. There were themed parties, afternoon teas, happy hour wines, Scrabble games and always plenty of friends. Europe? She went. Multiple times. Tea? Absolutely. She could still beat you at Scrabble. And a Jeopardy wiz she was!

Her favorite chapter came in retirement, when she and Jim opened the Sunburst Tea Garden in their backyard in Essex. When the town board nervously asked, “But what if it’s successful?” Elsa just laughed. She made it very successful. It became a haven of fun and friendship — exactly the kind of space she loved to create.

In Essex, she earned the unofficial title “Mayor of Essex,” thanks to her gift for planning fun, having opinions (on everything), and bringing people together.

When Jim’s health began to decline, it was time to make the heartbreaking decision to move from the idyllic town of Essex to somewhere closer to medical care. Jim and Elsa chose to make their next home at the Lake Forest Senior Living Community in Plattsburgh. Though leaving Essex was bittersweet, Jim and Elsa found comfort in the welcoming atmosphere of Lake Forest, and where Elsa resided for 20 years.

At the age of 91, Saranac Village at Will Rogers was the next move, and it was a wonderful place for her. Unfortunately, dementia made her stay too short, and off to Keene Valley Neighborhood House it was. Dementia is a cruel disease, and thus necessitated another move. This time to Elderwood of Uihlein.

Eventually, she decided — because of course, it was her decision — that it was time to go. She missed Jim and the dear friends who passed before her. And she figured it was time to join them for happy hour.

So we say goodbye, though she wouldn’t want much fuss about it, and no need to send cards or flowers. Instead, honor her in the way she’d love best: Grab a friend or two. Pour a glass of wine or a cup of tea. Play a game of Scrabble. Laugh loudly. Love well. And remember the original Elsa — because originals never go out of style.

Per her request, there will be no calling hours or funeral. A committal service will be held at the North Elba Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

As we navigated the journey with our mom and her dementia, our family would like to express our deep appreciation to Devon McCabe, FNP, and for the compassionate staff at Saranac Village at Will Rogers, Keene Valley Neighborhood House in Keene Valley, and Elderwood of Uihlein in Lake Placid. Your kindness and unwavering support made a significant difference during this difficult time. We truly cannot thank all of you enough.

The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid is in charge of arrangements.