Garnerville - Ethel Nelson (1939-2024) on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, Ethel Nelson, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family at the age of 84. Ethel was born on July 8, 1939 in New York City to Ethel and John Flannagan. She met Roger Nelson in New York City and they were married at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in 1959. Bill and Ethel moved from Inwood to Rockland County in 1963 where they raised their two daughters, Debbie and Donna. Until her passing, Ethel served as the last surviving charter member of the David B. Roche Fire Department Lady Auxiliary. In addition she served as a bus driver for  East Ramapo Central School district for 30 years. Ethel leaves a legacy to her family for her love of Cape May, New Jersey, frequent trips to the casino and family card games. She was known for her quick wit, humor, and compassionate spirit. She was predeceased by her loving husband Roger (Bill) Nelson and son-in-law John Peterson. Ethel is survived by her devoted loving daughters Debbie (John) Trotta and Donna Peterson, her grandchildren, John (Lauren) Trotta, Jenna (Amit) Sinha, Christine (Andrew) DelPrete, Travis Peterson, Jacqueline (Devin) Boyko and her seven great-grandkids who she adored.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Friday July 5th from 4-8PM at the TJ McGowan Sons Funeral Home 71 N. Central Highway Garnerville, NY 10923 . A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated for Ethel on Sat July 6th at 10AM at St. Gregory Barbarigo Church in Garnerville with internment to follow in the F. Loescher Veterans Cemetery in New Hempstead, NY. The family would like to thank their friends and Hospice of Rockland County for their loving care and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the David B Roche, Ladies Auxiliary.