MARYLAND - Anita Elva (Griswold) Axtell, 88, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2007 at the Otsego Manor, where she had been a resident since February 2006.

She was born May 25, 1918, the daughter of the late Wickham H. and Nettie (Albert) Griswold of Schenevus. A life time area resident, she graduated from Schenevus High School, Class of 1936.

On November 27, 1946 she married Raymond F. Axtell. The Axtell's owned a dairy farm on Axtell Road in Maryland for many years.

Mrs. Axtell was a past Regent and Historian of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Iroquois Chapter, Worcester. She was a life member of the National Society Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America, having descended from a Founder ancestor, Michael Griswold and a Patriot ancestor, Aaron Griswold, both of the Colony of Connecticut. She was also a member of the New York State Historical Association and the Otsego County Women's Republican Club.

Mrs. Axtell was predeceased by her parents; a sister, Marjorie (Griswold) Freeman November 9, 1968 and her husband on July 1, 2003.

In 2004 she became a resident of the Thanksgiving Home in Cooperstown where she resided until February of 2006, when illness necessitated her to move to the Otsego Manor.

She is survived by a sister-in-law, Mrs. Lucy (Axtell) Tait of Maryland; several cousins, and several nieces and nephews of Mr. Axtell.

There will be no viewing or funeral. A graveside service will be held at the Maryland Cemetery in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Schenevus-Maryland Emergency Squad, 105 Co. Hwy. 25, Schenevus, NY 12155 or the DAR Iroquois Chapter, Worcester, NY 12197.

Online condolences may be made at www.hellerfuneralhome.com

The Heller Funeral Home, 25 Arch St. in Schenevus, is serving the family.