Ethel Mae Reynolds French, passed away peacefully on March 18th, 2026, at the age of 89. She was born October 31st, 1936, the third child to Edson and Amy Cross-Reynolds, in Lewis, New York, where she was raised alongside her 11 siblings. At the age of 18, right after graduation from Elizabethtown-Lewis High School, on July 24th, 1954, Ethel married Charles E. French, at the Lewis Congregational Church, they then moved to Reber, New York, where they grew their family farm, shared forty-seven years of love, dedication and family. In May of 1955, their family began to grow with the birth of their son followed by five daughters.

She is survived by her six children Bradley (Holly), Penny, Pam (Larry), Jill, Lois (John), and Jessie, who gifted her with three generations of grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly; and her brothers, Bobby (Shirley) and Harold (Faye).

Her love was quiet but consistent, expressed in the everyday acts that made a house feel like a home. Many know Ethel's devotion to family by her love for family photos. For decades, hundreds of photos from all generations alike, hung proudly on every wall in her home. The stories those photos hold remain a part of her soul for eternity.

Ethel was a woman of great strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion. Her life was rooted in her church, where she found both purpose and community. She lived her beliefs not only in prayer - through kindness, generosity, and a steady presence that brought comfort to those around her. Ethel was never shy to be the first one to pray for those in need.

She had a gift for sewing, one she shared selflessly. Over the years Ethel created hundreds of quilts, items of clothing, wedding gowns, and household linens, each stitched with care and love. Her work not only warmed the bodies of those who received them, but their hearts as well. Many in the community were touched by her gifted hands, whether through stitches or thoughtful gestures. Ethel was also gifted with a green thumb. During the warm months, her gardens were always filled with the most vibrant flowers and greenery. She worked endlessly with bare hands to maintain her own piece of paradise.

Ethel found joy in her kitchen, where she was known for her baking. Her peanut brittle became a beloved specialty - something friends and family looked forward to and remembered fondly. Above all else, Ethel devoted her life to caring for others. She was a steady and loving presence to her friends and family, always putting their needs before her own.

Ethel was preceded by her beloved husband, Charles, who made his way home to God on June 14th, 2001, along with sons-in-law John Montville and Tommy Wells.

She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, faith, and generosity that will continue to live on in all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held at the Reber Cemetery at a later date.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick Funeral Home, Elizabethtown.