Cecile Elfant

Cecile R. Elfant Cecile Elfant, age 73, passed away Wednesday morning, June 27, 2012, with her husband Robert (Bob) Elfant at her side. She was stricken with a rare and persistent cancer and despite the best efforts of oncologists in Austin and at M.D. Anderson it could not be eradicated. Her calm and steadfast behavior during this dreadful illness was an inspiration to those who knew of her condition. Cecile was born on April 29, 1939 in Pecos, Texas to Abe and Eva Rayblatt, and was raised during her early years in a couple of west Texas towns before the family's move to Dallas in 1950. In 1958, after a whirlwind courtship, she married Bob and in 1994, upon Bob's retirement, they decided to settle down in Austin. Cecile's pursued a very active and fulfilling life in Austin. She possessed uncommon curiosity for the world around her, both in Austin via her many volunteer activities and organizations which she joined, and also through extensive travels throughout the U.S. and worldwide. She was a prolific volunteer, and also served as a Member of the Board of U.T. LAMP, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, the Austin Newcomers and Congregation Shalom Rav. She was an active supporter of, and volunteered for, the State and Paramount Theaters, and subscribed to other local theater companies. Cecile attended many classes to learn how to create various arts and crafts, many of which she then pursued as hobbies. She was also a member of a movie group and a book group. Cecile is survived by her husband, son Michael and daughter-in-law Poppy and grandchild Jazz; daughter Natalie and son-in-law Jerry; brother Morris; sister Leah and husband David; sister Rose and husband, Lionel and extended family. There will be a private family gathering locally to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Cecile's name to be sent to M.D. Anderson in Houston, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum in Austin or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent to www.cookwaldenfuneralhome.com.