Georgia Janet Elkins

Georgia Janet Elkins, nee Toney, b. July 29, 1933 in Hahntown, PA passed from the world on July 12, 2026. Georgia was the beloved wife of the late Herbert C. Elkins (d.2019) and the cherished mother of Tina Elkins (Shawn Godwin), Gail Brown (Mitchell Brown), the late Karen Jo Elkins (d.1995) and the late infants Leota and Nelda. She was the much loved grandmother of Duncan Godwin and Jesse Brown. Georgia was the daughter of the late Hillard Toney and Nelda (Neri) Toney of Boone County WV, and sister of the late Clara (Toney) Dinalko.

The family moved from PA a year after her birth, and Georgia was raised in Comfort, WV amidst the extended Toney family who lived nearby. Georgia later developed an interest in genealogy and family history and attended the Toney Family reunions for many years.

Georgia graduated from Sherman High School in Comfort, WV a year early, in 1951. She attended Marshall University and was a home economics major. She met her husband Herbert Elkins at Marshall where he was also enrolled.

The couple married in 1953 and, as many families from WV did, settled in Cleveland Ohio. Herbert became a union steel worker, and Georgia was a full-time homemaker, but she also became a licensed beautician. She worked part time as a beautician in both a shop and later from home. Georgia walked for the March of Dimes for many years, and volunteered with her daughters’ various school and Girl Scout activities. She strongly believed in education and was fully supportive of her three daughters all attending college and graduate schools.

Georgia had an interest in antique, vintage and collectible items which led to many adventures at garage sales and flea markets. She became excellent at refinishing wood furniture and at upholstery. She always appreciated quality vintage furniture that could be revived and restored.

Georgia and Herbert moved from Cleveland to Parma OH in 1978 and lived there for the rest of their lives.

In retirement, Herbert and Georgia enjoyed driving across the western states and spent several winters in Florida. They were very active in caring for their beloved grandsons when both boys were little.

As Herbert’s health failed, Georgia became a devoted and tireless caregiver, and she alone made it possible for her husband to remain living at home. They were married for over 65 years and were always each other’s source of strength and comfort.

Georgia will be laid to rest alongside Herbert and their daughter Karen at Brooklyn Heights Cemetery in Cleveland. Georgia will be terribly missed and always loved.