Elaine B. Dobbs
Elaine Kay Ball was born April 19, 1936, the oldest child of Francis K. and Marie K. Ball. Soon to follow were siblings, Lynne, Frank Jr, and Karen. Her family tree held ancestors from Ireland and Germany. Much of her young life was spent with her grandparents in Philadelphia, Pa. Always admiring horses, she spent her youth raising money for riding lessons. It was during her childhood that her determination, work ethic, and faith were instilled in her. Elaine was baptized in the Baptist faith, embracing the tenet that the congregation pledges to support all members together. Kirkwood Community Church was her first local place of worship.
Elaine attended Haddonfield Memorial High School, where she played softball and basketball. Her love of the competition of sports and its physical challenges suited her nature. She was also responsible for teaching countless youngsters Red Cross Certified Swimming Instruction at Mountwell Pool in Haddonfield. Upon her graduation from HMHS, Elaine completed a study of x-ray technology at Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia.
Elaine married Edmund “Bub” Stafford Dobbs on September 29, 1956, in the little church in Kirkwood. Bub established his business as Elaine raised their family of 5 children. The business and marriage were a collaboration that lasted 60+ years.
Elaine is predeceased by Edmund and her parents, Frank and Marie. She is also predeceased by her sister Karen and brother Frank, and brothers-in-law Edmund (Pete)and John (Jack). Her sister, Lynne, of Florida and nieces and nephews remember her fondly. She is survived by Stephen of Voorhees, Meryl (David) of Stratford, Dann of Cherry Hill, Leigh (Michael) of Cherry Hill, and Carolyn of New York, New York. Elaine was proud of her grandsons, Tyler (Erika) of Collingswood, Brennan, and Liam of Cherry Hill. Miss Mischa Rydewski was a special light in Elaine’s life.
Elaine was a tireless caretaker at Glendale United Methodist Church. Planning, organizing, and supporting the congregation were her hallmarks. She taught Sunday School and eventually became Superintendent. Her church family could count on her for fellowship in her role as Lay Leader. Elaine was a faithful servant who could be counted on to prepare church functions and meals for numerous charities, including Habitat for Humanity. Elaine’s unwavering faith is a testament and rippling echo of her devotion to God and the power of positive thinking despite many obstacles.
Elaine enjoyed reading about current events, biographies, and politics. Jigsaw puzzles and brain teasers were favorite activities. She was also well known for her support of the Flyers, Phillies, and Eagles, no matter their wins or losses. The Nature Conservancy, Native American Indians, and The Smile Train were beneficiaries of her generous nature.
A thoughtful tribute would be graciously accepted in Elaine’s name. Hope Methodist Food Pantry, 700 Cooper Rd, Voorhees, 08043 (www.meethope.org/foodpantry) and Voorhees Animal Orphanage, 41 Cooper Rd Voorhees, 08043 (www.vaonj.org) were two of Elaine’s favorites.
Elaine’s family will receive friends & relatives on Tuesday, Nov. 25th, 9:30-10:45 AM, at Kain-Murphy Funeral Services, 15 West End Ave., Haddonfield, NJ; where her Services will follow at 11 AM. Interment, Locustwood Memorial Park, Cherry Hill, NJ.