Ellen Jane Demsky

Ellen Jane Demsky of Lynchburg, VA, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2023, from natural causes.   She is survived by her sister, Ilene Demsky Patrick (Richard), and beloved nephew, Joshua Michael Patrick.  She is also survived by her cousins Jacqueline Aronson, Steve Aronson (Barbara) and Sharon Lerner (Richard).  She is predeceased by her parents Julius Demsky and  Joan Demsky, and her brother Sanford Demsky.

Ellen devoted her life to helping others in a variety of ways.  After having a career in hospital administration, she obtained her RN degree at age 42 and became a critical care nurse.  She took a job in the ICU unit of Atlanta’s Northside Hospital, moving  from her hometown of Lynchburg, VA to Atlanta, GA, to be near her newborn nephew.  He became the highlight of her life as she immersed herself in his life.  She took him to cultural and fun activities all over town and made sure he was part of her many volunteer activities.  She shared her love of collecting with Josh and started his first menorah collection.

Ellen’s Jewish faith was central to her being.  She was a member of Agudath Shalom in Lynchburg, VA and Temple Kol Emeth in Marietta, GA.  She loved the temple she grew up in and donated prayer books to Agudath Shalom.  She combined her innate talent in entertaining with her strong faith by  conducting many fundraisers for Temple Kol Emeth.  She put on lavish sedars for hundreds of people, inviting her family and friends, as well as anyone who didn’t have a sedar to attend.  She led Sukkot decorating at the synagogue as well as numerous other festive and fundraising activities.  Temple Kol Emeth honored her with an Avodah award and gala dinner.  Ellen was an active member of the Atlanta Jewish Federation and Women of Reform Judaism.  She also participated in volunteer activities for children and the homeless.

Ellen loved beautiful things and designed her home and fundraisers with style and elegance.  She had an extraordinary skill for carrying a theme through all stages of an event – including invitations, decorations,  menu planning, entertainment and take aways.  She was kind and compassionate, lending a hand to anyone who needed it, without ever being asked. She bettered the lives of many people, giving them hope and a smile.

Ellen was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside and will be missed dearly by her loved ones.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.