Ellen Falkson

Ellen Falkson, beloved mother and grandmother, died peacefully surrounded by family and friends after a brief illness in Ithaca, New York on February 26, 2026.Born Ellen Garbose on June 6, 1938 in Gardner, MA, she was the daughter and only child of Samuel and Berthe Garbose. She graduated from Boston University’s School of Education and looked forward to a career in elementary education. Toward the end of her studies, mutual friends introduced her to Louis Michael (Micky) Falkson who was studying nearby at Harvard. They quickly became a couple and married after graduation. The couple lived in Cambridge, MA, and Ellen taught elementary school in nearby Stoneham.

Several years later when Micky was offered a position at Cornell University, the couple moved to Ithaca. Soon their family grew to include three children, Linda, Amy, and Arthur. Ellen was a gentle, capable, and devoted mother. She saw the best in her children, believed in them without hesitation, and stood steady through every season. Nothing meant more to Ellen than her family. She held her sons-in-law Steven Rogers and Steven Gelber in high regard. Ellen was a proud and adoring grandmother to Camille and Ben Rogers, who were a constant source of joy and pride for her.

Although Ellen initially stayed home to raise her children, her love of teaching called to her. She returned to her chosen profession as a first grade and kindergarten teacher at Belle Sherman Elementary School, a position she held until 2009. She found great joy in her career at Belle Sherman. Her nurturing spirit and commitment to education made her beloved by students and parents alike. To this day, former students and parents stop her family members to comment on Ellen’s positive impact on them.Teaching at Belle Sherman was also fulfilling because of Ellen’s colleagues. Working as a team, they shared ideas and lessons, and all aspects of teaching. Not surprisingly, deep friendships developed that lasted Ellen’s entire life, a testament to the respect and affection she inspired.Ellen carried herself with quiet strength and calm. With her big smile and tender heart, she exuded empathy, selflessness, and kindness. She never sought praise or attention, and was deeply modest although she was generous with compliments and quick to notice the unique gifts in others. Ellen’s legacy endures in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and all those who were lucky enough to have known and walked through life with her.

Ellen was predeceased by her loving husband, Micky, her best friend and partner in all things. She is survived by her children, Linda Falkson (Steven Gelber), Amy Rogers (Steven Rogers), and Arthur Falkson, and grandchildren Ben Rogers and Camille Rogers.

The family thanks many too numerous to list for their care and devotion to Ellen, including her longstanding and extraordinary doctor, Dr Lucia Jander, and her equally extraordinary PT, Anne Reilley, as well as the loving and capable care from Jacob Gelber and the incredible staff at the Craftsman and at Hospicare.

Memorial details for a celebration of life on Ellen’s birthday are forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospicare and the SPCA of Tompkins County.