Ellen Hepfer

Ellen Cober Hepfer, 96, died at her home in Plattsburgh, NY, on January 25, 2025, following a severe stroke. Ellen was cared for at home by family members and received supportive hospice services. She was a former resident of Cortland and Homer.

Ellen was born in Rochester, NY, on December 20, 1928, and grew up in Syracuse, NY, and Providence, RI. In 1950, Ellen graduated from Bucknell University with a Bachelor of Science in education. She then attended Andover Newton Theological School where she met her future husband, divinity student Jack Hepfer. Ellen and Jack were married from 1952 until Jack's death in 2016. Ellen graduated from ANTS in 1953 with a Master of Religious Education. After six years partnering in parish ministry, the couple moved to Cortland in 1961 when Jack accepted a campus ministry position at SUNY Cortland.

During the years she lived in the area, Ellen was involved in the community in a variety of ways. After receiving certification from SUNY Cortland to teach English, Ellen taught language arts at Homer Junior High School from 1968 to 1993. She was named Educator of the Year (1984-1985) by the local chapter of the Phi Delta Kappa Association. In the late 1960s, Ellen was a member of the Cortland League of Women Voters and served for a year as its president. In her retirement years, Ellen was active in the Ladies' Literary Club, played bells as a member of the Whitechapel Ringers, and enjoyed singing with the Homer Community Chorus.

Ellen is survived by her son, Kevin Hepfer; daughter-in-law, Shelly Tracy; and daughter, Kathryn Hepfer. Among her many endearing qualities, she will be remembered by family members for her infectious sense of humor, her resilience, and her lifelong interest in current events.

At Ellen's request, no memorial service has been scheduled.

Arrangements were entrusted to Heidrick Funeral Home, 48 Court St., Plattsburgh, NY 12901.