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ELLEN ZERBE Obituary
Ellen Cogswell Zerbe
Ellen Cogswell Zerbe, a life-long resident of the Arlington and McLean area, died Friday, November 13, 2015 at Virginia Hospital Center Arlington. Born September 25, 1944 in Washington, DC, Ellen graduated from Arlington's Wakefield High School in 1962. Shortly thereafter, Ellen began her career at the US Department of State. Ellen was a skilled and dedicated executive administrative assistant, a position she held until her retirement in 2001. The highlight of her career was serving Ambassador Vernon Walters from 1985-1991. The center of Ellen's life was her family, especially her five grandchildren: Brooklynn, Maggie, Molly, Aiden and Elliot. She was predeceased by her adoring husband, Bruce W. Zerbe in 2009. Ellen is survived by her brother, William N. Cogswell (Barbara) of Arlington, her sons William (Tara) of Fort Worth and Andrew (Stacey) of Alexandria. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made in Ellen's name to either Trinity Episcopal Church or The American Lung Association, 3001 Gettysburg Road Camp Hill, PA 17011. Visitation is Sunday, November 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Murphy's Funeral Home, located at 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. Funeral services are Monday, November 23 at 10 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 2217 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204 with interment to follow at Columbia Gardens Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at: www.murphyfuneralhomes.com
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Memories and Condolences
for ELLEN ZERBE
Dale Cummings
November 22, 2015
I so enjoyed seeing Ellen on a regular basis at the Eclips salon. She shared so much and was a wonderful listener. I will miss her. What a wonderful person. I am so happy to have known her.
Dianne Hickman mason
November 20, 2015
So sorry to learn of your mothers passing. Our prayers go out to your family. Ive known Ellen since we were kids at Trinity Church. She was such a nice lady.
November 20, 2015
Our deepest condolences to the family. We will miss her very much.
From her Eclips Salon family.
November 20, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. May God strengthen you and give you peace during this difficult time (Psalms 29:11).
~K.Rush
Teresa Benson
November 19, 2015
With heartfelt condolences and kindest thoughts in your time of sadness and sorrow.
My prayers are with you and your family, wishing you comfort and peace, Cpt. Ivie!!
Ben McKinney
November 18, 2015
I am sadden for you in your loss and there are no right words. I pray for your family and loved ones during this grieving time. For rest, peace, and understanding.
Psalms 71:20-21
David Herndon
November 18, 2015
I am so sorry for your family's loss. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Williams
November 18, 2015
It is terrible to hear about your loss. I express my sincere sympathy to you and your family. I will include your mother and your family in my prayers.
Bonnie Helschein
November 17, 2015
We are so sorry for the loss of your mother. May your memories of her provide much comfort.
Love Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Paul
Jessica Jacobs
November 17, 2015
We're so sorry for your loss. May your beautiful mom rest in peace and may memories fill your hearts and mind forever. Aunt Jessie & Uncle Lloyd
November 17, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss! Ellen was so welcoming when our families were joined thru marriage, and a friendship was born! We will miss our many conversations about our kids and grandchildren and shared events! We hope the family will take comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their loss!
Zita and Eric H
Paul Landrey
November 17, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sonja M
November 17, 2015
Words are not enough to express how so sorry I am for your loss. Ellen was always so kind to me, and had some wonderful stories. She clearly loved her children and grandchildren tremendously. She will be missed!
November 16, 2015
So Sorry for your loss. May the GOD of all comfort help you and your fanily in this time of sorrow PSALMS 29:11
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Funeral services provided by:
Murphy Funeral Homes - Arlington4510 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203
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