ELKHART -- Elsie F. Rines, 88, of Elkhart, died at 5:20 p.m. Sunday (March 1, 2009) in Valley View Nursing Facility.

She was born July 29, 1920, in Bridgeport, Conn., to Joe H. Sr. and Mary (Plonck) Ferguson Sr. On June 6, 1942, she married Forrest M. Rines in Hampton, N.H. He died in the late 1990s.

Mrs. Rines is survived by one son, Brad (Kay) Rines of Elkhart; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A production supervisor at Sarasota County (Fla.) School Board for more than 20 years, Mrs. Rines retired in 1986. She volunteered at the Sarasota County Fair, was a member of the "Shining Stars of Sarasota" and an avid seamstress. She enjoyed traveling, visiting Ireland, South America and Alaska after her retirement. She attended Northside Baptist Church, Elkhart.

After moving to the Elkhart area when she began experiencing vision problems, Mrs. Rines became involved with "Tuesday's Ladies" of ADEC and the NILS Task Force, organizations for the visually impaired. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation will take place. Burial will be at a later date in Rice Cemetery with the Rev. Carl Henry of Northside Baptist Church officiating.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is assisting with arrangements.

Memorials may be given to Macular Degeneration Research, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD 20871. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences