Rye lost one of it’s oldest citizens, Elfriede Colodny, on Dec 12, 2025, at the age of 95.
Elfriede was born in 1930 in Weinheim, Germany. It was there that she met her future husband, Alan P Colodny. They were married in 1960 and settled in Rye, New York. She has lived at the same residence for over 60 years, during which time she transformed the large lot surrounding her home into a parklike sanctuary. Every tree, bush, and flower was planted and lovingly tended by her through the decades. The many hours she spent working in her rock garden, caring for the trees, and walking barefoot through the grass in the early morning hours brought her great peace and pleasure.
In addition to her talent as a gardener, she was skilled at knitting and crocheting. Her scarves, hats, and sweaters will keep her friends and family warm for years to come.
She had precious memories of her life in Germany and returned for regular visits, well into her late 70’s. For 18 years she taught German at the Berlitz language center to traveling business people, a labor of love.
She was committed to fitness and wellness throughout her life. She was a longtime member of Coveleigh Club in Rye, where she swam and played paddle tennis with a close knit group of friends. She took daily walks at Playland Park well into her 90s. And she took up yoga in her 60s and maintained a regular practice and spiritual discipline. She was a lover of classical music and opera, and had a beautiful singing voice.
She was an accomplished cook and baker. Her black forest cake was legendary. Everything she ate was always prepared with the freshest ingredients. She was a well-known regular at the Down to Earth Rye Farmer’s market.
Elfriede was feisty to the end and always spoke her mind.
The family thanks the staff at Westchester Hospice and Osborn Home Care for the excellent care and attention she received at the end of her life. She is survived by her nieces, Joanne Langford and Janet Siegel.
Final arrangements are being handled through the Graham Funeral Home in Rye, NY. A celebration of her life will be held in the new year. Donations in her name to the Edith G. Read Natural Park and Wildlife Sanctuary would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.
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