Elma C. Kepner "Dolly"

ELMA C. KEPNER (“Dolly”) passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in Lancaster in 1930 to the late Christian Herr Harnish and Elma Landis, Dolly spent her entire life in the community she loved. She was born at her family home on New Danville Pike and remained there for 75 years, deeply rooted in the place that shaped her. Dolly was the heart of her family. At just 15 years old, she lost her mother, stepping into the role of caretaker with strength and grace. She took on household duties, helped with the family’s dairy business, and was an active member of Farm Women #22. Through these experiences, she became an exceptional cook and baker, known especially for her out-of-this-world pies. Her musical talents were another of her God-given gifts. She began piano lessons as a young girl, studying under many teachers, and her love of music flourished. She devoted her talents to the Lord, serving as the children’s choir director and later as the organist at Covenant United Methodist Church for 70 years—a role she shared for decades with her son Bill, who was the church’s music director for 35 years. Dolly was known for many things—her deep faith, her world-famous apple pies, and her musical talents—but above all, she was known for her fierce love and unwavering dedication to her family. She would celebrate that love each summer and build fond memories in Ocean City, NJ. She was the beloved wife of the late Donald E. Kepner, for 54 years until his passing in 2004; devoted mother of Cynthia A. Dale (Donald), Patricia L. Willard (Roger J.), and William H. Kepner (Phyllis); loving grandmother of Kristen (William) Stemmer, Ryan Dale (Catherine), Kelly Mantoan (Tony), Katherine Willard (Trishstin Hall), Allison Gregory (Gary), Rebecca Combs (Troy), and Kim McKinney (Jerry); adoring great-grandmother of 15; and dear sister of the late Evelyn E. Ameer (the late George). She was also a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing at 10:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Covenant United Methodist Church, 110 N. Mulberry Street, Lancaster, PA. Interment will follow at New Danville Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Spinal Muscular Atrophy: www.curesma.org or United Disabilities Services: www.udservices.org