Elaine L. Southworth

Elaine L. Southworth, 91, of Medford, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 at Aspirus Hospital in Medford. A funeral mass for Elaine will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Jayanna Kanna officiating. A rosary service will take place at the church at 8:45 a.m. Burial will take place at Molitor Catholic Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will take place on Friday, Sept. 4, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.

Elaine Laura (Kalmon) Southworth was born on Sept. 1, 1934, to Steve and Laura Kalmon in Medford. Throughout her life, Elaine held many roles—not only as a devoted teacher and community member, but as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, niece, daughter, neighbor, and friend.

Elaine’s childhood was spent on her family’s farm, alongside her eight siblings. From an early age, she knew the meaning of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. The days were not always easy, and she experienced the struggles and hardships that came with growing up on a farm. Yet, even through difficult circumstances, Elaine had a remarkable ability to look toward the future with optimism. She carried that outlook with her throughout her entire life.

At the age of 18, Elaine left home to pursue further education at the Teachers College. Determined to build a future for herself, she worked as a waitress while attending school to help fund her education. Her first teaching position brought her back to Medford, where she taught in a small, one-room schoolhouse, educating students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

During this time, Elaine began corresponding with George Southworth while he was away training with the military. Their letters, along with the few opportunities they had to spend time together, gradually brought them closer. Their relationship grew into love, and they were married at Holy Rosary Parish. Together, they settled down and began their own family. It was within her family that Elaine found her greatest calling. She cherished every moment together and believed in the importance of staying close and supporting one another. Her devotion to those she loved was at the heart of who she was.

Elaine continued her teaching career at Holy Rosary Parish Catholic School, where she taught sixth grade and later became principal. She devoted more than 30 years to education, pouring her heart into the children she taught. For Elaine, teaching was never simply a job. It was an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people. She took great pride

1934-2026

in watching children learn, grow, and become the people they were meant to be. Her kindness, patience, determination, and genuine care for others left an impression on countless students and families.

Elaine’s commitment to others extended well beyond the classroom. She remained an active and giving member of her community, serving as treasurer for the Town of Hammel and volunteering at various Farmers Union events. She was someone who believed in contributing, helping where she could, and doing her part for those around her.

Throughout her life, Elaine faced obstacles, hardships, and seasons of uncertainty. She also experienced tremendous joy, love, and countless blessings. Through every circumstance, she remained faithful and optimistic. Her faith was not simply something she spoke about—it was something she lived. The Holy Family remained her guide and her source of strength throughout her life. No matter what she faced, Elaine continued to trust in God and to find reasons to be grateful.

Although Elaine is no longer with us, the light she brought into the lives of others has not gone out. It lives on in the lessons she taught, the kindness she showed, the faith she shared, and, most of all, in the people she loved.

Elaine’s memory is carried on by her children, Mary Jo (Paul) Peplinski and Patrick (Miha) Southworth; son-in-law, Clark Woznicki; grandchildren, Paul, Justin, and Elizabeth Peplinski; siblings, David (Laura) Kalmon, Jeff (Debbie) Kalmon, George (Rita)Kalmon, and Patricia Huber; sisters-in-law, Margie Kalmon, Penny Kalmon, Imy Kalmon, Annette Southworth, Janice Southworth, and Betty Southworth; brothers-inlaw, Dennis (Nancy) Southworth and Danny (Margie) Southworth; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Steve and Laura Kalmon; parents-in-law, Agnes and Claire Southworth; beloved husband, George Southworth; daughter, Audrey Woznicki; siblings, Franklin, Allen, Stephen, Dennis, and Joseph Kalmon; sisters-in-law, Charlotte (Conrad) Bolz, Bernice (Bill) Guerton, and Mary (Lee) Hessefort; brothers-in-law, Allen Huber, Donald Southworth, Jim Southworth, and John Southworth; niece, Kelly Kalmon; and nephews, Patrick Kalmon and Dane Bolz.

Though we will miss her more than words can express, we are grateful for every memory, every lesson, every story, and every moment we were blessed to share with her. Above all, she taught us that family is everything—to stand together and support one another through it all. Her life and the love she gave will continue in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Elaine’s light will remain with us always. Our Guardian Angel.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

Paid Obituary 188236