D. Elaine Olney, 99, of Warren, PA, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Thursday, April 16th, 2026. She was surrounded by those who loved her dearly as she entered into the presence of the Lord. Elaine was truly the heart and soul of her family.

She was born January 25, 1927, in Olean, NY, and was the daughter of the late Leroy S. and Dorothy L. Fox Gibson. Elaine resided most of her life in Warren and was a graduate of Warren Area High School. She was employed at the Warren County Courthouse for the majority of her career.

On November 25, 1948, she married Richard W. Olney and they spent 67 loving years together before he passed away on June 26, 2016. They lived a beautiful country life on a seven generation farmstead outside of Warren. 

Elaine acquired a private pilot’s license in 1944 at the courageous age of seventeen. She was a skilled aviator for nearly eight decades with over 100 documented flights. Her last flight was at the heroic age of 95 with her daughter, Susan, as a passenger. Her sense of adventure portrayed a natural fearlessness as she flew a diversity of aircraft, including open cock-pit planes in the 1940’s. She experienced breathtaking journeys that brought her immeasurable joy with unrivaled bravery. She won the Wright Brothers award for recognition of aviator safety several years ago.

She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, and her faith fortified her for this last flight to take her into the embrace of Jesus Christ. Her influence was measured by the love and wisdom she shared with those around her. She was a beacon of light, a source of comfort and a pillar of strength for all those who knew her. Elaine was a gentle guide and reassuring presence not only to her husband and children, but to anyone in need. She will be dearly missed by countless beloved friends who shared life with her and delighted in her words of encouragement.

Her passing is a reminder that the love we share and the impact we have on others remains eternal. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness and unconditional love.

Elaine is survived by her loving daughter, Susan Toombs and husband Raymond. Her treasured son, David Olney, passed away in 2016. She is survived by her two step daughters, Alyce Busch and husband Randy and Rhiannon Toombs, two step grandsons, Ezra and Gabriel Busch, all of Tionesta PA. She is survived by many adored nieces and nephews.In addition to her husband and son, Elaine was preceded in death by three sisters, Patty Gibson, Dorothy Rossell and Kay Reed.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 11:00am. Visitation will be in the church parlor from 10:00-11:00am prior to the service at Grace United Methodist Church, 501 Pennsylvania Ave E. Warren, PA with the Reverend William Beatty, pastor, officiating. A luncheon and time of fellowship will follow the service at the church. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc. has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, Elaine would be sincerely touched by donations to Paws Along the River or any animal rescue you prefer. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com or on their Facebook page.

“Fly high on wings of angels, Elaine!”