B. Jane Smith

 
 

B. Jane Smith, 89, formerly of Washington Boro, passed away on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at Masonic Village. She was the wife of the late Donald L. "Hook" Smith, Sr., who passed away on December 9, 2004. She was born in Camden, NJ, daughter of the late Chester and Bessie Carman Sayers. Jane attended Manor Church and was a member of Sell Chapel. She was an avid Philadelphia Phillies fan and had worked at Byers Pastry, Columbia.

She is survived by three sons: Donald L. (Susan) Smith, Jr.; Barry L. (Dianne) Smith; and Mark E. (Dana) Smith, all of Washington Boro. One daughter: Debbie S. (David) Rill, Mount Joy. Nine grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, one step-grandchild and three step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one grandson: Kevin B. Smith, one sister: Hazel Peters and one brother: Allen Sayers.

A Private Service will be held for the family with interment in Concordia Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Masonic Village Hospice, 1 Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Keith A. Gillette

 
 

Keith A. Gillette, 46, of Elizabethtown, passed away on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. He was born in Lancaster, son of Leo W. and Deborah K. McCauley Gillette, Mount Joy. Keith was a truck driver for Wenger Feeds for 22 years. He enjoyed riding motorcycles and had a love of music.

Surviving in addition to his parents, one daughter: Rebecca I. Gillette, Elizabethtown. One brother: Kevin M. (Beth) Gillette, Portland, OR.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 31 South Eighth Street, Columbia on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. Interment in Mount Joy Cemetery. The Viewing will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Joseph L. Datesman

 
 

Joseph L. Datesman, 75, of Columbia, passed away on Monday, July 18, 2022 at home. He was the husband of Judy A. Camplese Datesman. He was born in Columbia, son of the late George and Bertha Lehman Datesman. He was a Retired Pennsylvania State Trooper and was a member of the PA Army National Guard. He was a Penn State Football and Green Bay Packers fan, and he enjoyed going to Stone Harbor and Williamsburg, hunting, (including Elk hunting in Colorado), fishing, and golfing. He was a member of the Columbia-Middletown BPOE #1074.

Surviving in addition to his wife, two daughters: Stephanie A. (Thomas E.) Rudzinski and Julie L. Lichvar. Two step-daughters: Marie A. (Kevin) Duffin and Nikki L. (Gregory) Ruby. Four grandchildren. One great-grandson and two step grandchildren. One brother: George L. (Judy L.) Datesman.

A Private Graveside Service and Burial will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Please omit flowers. The Family requests that a tree be planted in his memory. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Alice J. Dannelley

 
 

Alice J. Dannelley, 75, of Lancaster, passed away on Saturday, June 25, 2022. She was the wife of the late George N. Dannelley, Jr. Alice was born in Joplin, MO, daughter of the late George and Ivene Napier Scheurich. She worked in the office of Kunzler and Company, Inc. for 30 years before her retirement. She loved her family, gardening, going to the beach at Ocean City, MD, and was an avid Penn State and Philadelphia Eagles football fan.

She is survived by one son: George N. (Lori) Dannelley, III, Ephrata. One grandson: James Conley, III, Ephrata. Five brothers: Alan (Tammy) Scheurich, Lancaster; Neil

(Karen) Scheurich, South Carolina; Larry (Marie) Scheurich, Lancaster; Raymond (Alta) Scheurich, Neffsville and Danny (Joyce) Scheurich, Lancaster. One sister: Louise (Tom) Stoudt, Lancaster. Numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers: David and Joe Scheurich.

The Visitation will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Penn State Cancer Institute, Office of Development, 1249 Cocoa Ave., Suite 115, PO Box 852, Hershey, PA 17033. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Linda Kay Kaufman

 
 

Linda Kay Kaufman, 67, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 1, 2022 at HPH Hospice House, Lecanto, FL, after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Kenneth L. Kaufman, who preceded her in death in 2005. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Phyllis and Schuyler Gamber. She graduated from Columbia High School in 1972. She retired in 2020 from Perform Group, formerly Tighe Industries, after being a loyal employee for over 30 years. Once retired, Linda decided to leave the winters of Pennsylvania behind and move to Florida. This move allowed her to be closer to her grandchildren and pursue many of her other interests. She was an avid kayaker and enjoyed the wildlife that Florida had to offer.

Linda loved animals and was blessed to have the companionship of several dogs during her lifetime. She was a volunteer at the Citrus County Humane Society and helping to care for the animals brought her tremendous joy.

Linda is survived by her two loving daughters: Shemane R. Brambilla, wife of Michael Brambilla, Homosassa, FL and Marissa L. Walley, wife of Simon Walley, Overland Park, KS. Five grandchildren: Mikayla, Shea and Aaron Brambilla; and Emily and Samantha Walley. Two sisters: Margaret S., wife of Robert Warner and Laurie A., wife of Aloys “John” Heyen. One brother: Michael S., husband of Cindy Walker Gamber. Also a number of other loving relatives and close friends.

The Memorial Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 31 South Eighth Street, Columbia, PA 17512 on Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 10:30 A.M. The Visitation will be from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. The interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: the Humane Society of Citrus County, FL, Inc., PO Box 2283, Inverness, FL 34451. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Elvin L. Reitz

 
 

Elvin L. Reitz, 75, of East Hempfield Township, passed away on Monday, June 13, 2022 at home. He was the husband of Ruth A. Miller Reitz with whom he would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on November 25, 2022. He was born in Dalmatia, son of the late Woodrow and Eleanor Shaeffer Reitz. Elvin was a truck driver for Southern Container for 29 years and also for Dart Container before his retirement. He served in the Brethren Volunteer Service for a two year term. Elvin was a member of Lancaster Alliance Church, was a driver to take people to appointments as well as the Amish. He enjoyed genealogy, loved cats, traveling and was a very friendly person.

Surviving in addition to his wife, one brother: Larry D. (Jill E.) Reitz, Lancaster. One sister: Bonnie M. Reitz, East Petersburg and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Service will be held at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Joseph D. Burchill, officiating. Private interment will be in Erisman Mennonite Cemetery. Friends may call at the church from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: the Lancaster County SPCA, 848 South Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Dawn Marie Hallman

 
 

Dawn Marie Hallman, 47, of Brownstown, took her last breath here on earth and first breath at the gates of heaven on Sunday, June 12, 2022 at 3:07 A.M. at Lancaster General Hospital. Dawn was the wife of Jeffrey T. Hallman with whom she celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary on December 17, 2021. She was born in Pottstown, daughter of Sharon (Will) Snyder Neff and the late Ronald Scandle. Dawn enjoyed spending every moment that she could with her husband, kids and grandbabies, swimming and shopping at Victoria's Secret PINK. She will always be remembered for her amazing smile, open arms and her loving heart.

John 16:22 "So with you: Now is your time of grief but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your Joy."

Surviving in addition to her husband, six children: Vicki Wilson; Samantha Wilson; Taylor Wilson; Richard Wilson, Jr.; Tonya Wilson and Ethan Wilson. Three grandchildren: Israel Matos-Wilson, Isabella Leach and Paige Wiker.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Judy W. Bender

Judy W. Bender, 81, of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, June 13, 2022 at home. She was born in Conestoga, daughter of the late J. Abram and Lois Warfel Herr. She worked as a hostess at Columbia Diner before her retirement. Her family was the joy of her life.

She is survived by one daughter: Cindy L. (Maynard L., Jr.) Groff, Pequea. Two grandchildren: Nicole (Jeremy W.) Stauffer, Millersville and Matthew R. (Laura) Groff, Washington Boro. Three great-grandchildren: Bennett and Kayden Stauffer and Riley Groff. Siblings: Rose (Donnie) Frey, Lancaster; Dana (Phyllis) Herr, Breezewood and Hope (Chet) Arment, Landisville. She was preceded in death by one son: Steven D. Bender.

Friends may call at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Monday, June 20, 2022 for a visitation from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Private interment in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Anne I. Dunfee

 
 

Anne I. Dunfee, 87, of Mountville, passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022. She was the wife of the late Henry W. Dunfee who passed away in 1998. She was born in Philadelphia, daughter of the late William H. and Alice Wilke Smith. Anne enjoyed bingo, going to the casino, animals (especially her cats), rose bushes, watching old movies, old music, and going out with her family.

She is survived by her children: Sandra L. Dunfee, East Hempfield Twp.; Harry W. (Mary) Dunfee, Sharon Hill; Alice E. Dunfee, Florida and Steve (Lynda) Dunfee, Mountville. Fourteen grandchildren: Lia, Dawn, Miki, Edward, Stephanie, Harry, Jr., Katie, Phillip, Jr., Jamie, Brian, Melissa, Willie, David and Kelly. Numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son and daughter-in-law: Phillip (Sue) Dunfee; one brother: Bill Smith; and one sister: Marie Dietz.

A Private Service will be held for the family. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Geraldine "Gerry" K. VonStetten

 
 

Geraldine "Gerry" K. VonStetten, 93, of Mountville, passed away on Sunday, June 5, 2022 at home. She was the wife of the late Melvin "Mel" VonStetten, Jr. who passed away on September 12, 2020. Gerry was born in Columbia, daughter of the late Clarence and Ruth Kauffman Kauffman. She worked for Hamilton Watch, at the Sherwood Knoll and was an Avon Representative. She was a member of Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church and was a Godly woman who had great love for the Lord. Gerry loved her family with all of her being. She enjoyed going to the Delaware Bay, crocheting and in her earlier years, doing yardwork.

Gerry is survived by one son: Barry L. (Susan) VonStetten, Landisville and one daughter: Deb K. (Pete) Musser, Mountville. Four grandchildren: Brian VonStetten; Kellye VonStetten; Zach (Ashley) Musser and Carly Musser. Four great-grandchildren. One sister: Shirley Billett, Columbia. One sister-in-law: Shirley Bowers, Mount Joy. She was preceded in death by three sisters: Nancy Kauffman, Jean Schlegelmilch and Doris Kauffman.

The Funeral Service will be held at Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3825 Concordia Road, Columbia, PA 17512 on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Mary Anne Kingsborough, officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. Friends may call at the church from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Robert “Bob” Fralich Hess, Jr.

 
 

Robert "Bob" Fralich Hess, Jr., 83, of Lancaster, passed away surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, after a brief illness. Bob was a Lancaster native through and through. He was born to Robert F. Hess, Sr. and Lilyan G. Hess, in 1939. After graduating from JP McCaskey High School in 1957, he enlisted in the Armed Services and completed his training at The United States Army Provost Marshal School, Fort Gordon, GA, as a Military Policeman. Bob served almost 2 years in Germany during his time in the service. His stories will be remembered fondly. Bob was ahead of his time, he believed in hard work and innovation, always looking towards the future. His interests sent him down the path of computer technology and computer science, long before PC’s were a household name. A Systems Analyst his entire career, he retired from Donegal Mutual Insurance and did consulting work for a short time. He also believed in giving back and taught at Franklin and Marshall College’s Evening Division, teaching what he himself learned for future generations of programmers. After retirement, Bob found his true passion, the PIAA and became a Track & Field Official. Bob was a lifelong athlete in basketball, soccer, football, baseball, you name it. Bob either competed, coached or officiated. An avid supporter of local youth sports he could be found at many a game in and around Lancaster. He continued with the PIAA, adding Swimming/Diving Official to his resume and participated in many Local, District, and State meets. He truly loved being a part of the PIAA. Bob‘s other hobbies included playing Bridge. He was part of a club for many years and played regularly. He was serious about Bridge, make no mistake. Bob loved to travel, especially to the beach with his wife, Margaret, or if a special sporting event was happening. Bob had a fascination with WWII airplanes, as many youngsters growing up in the 1940’s did. Bob had a brilliant mind, his knowledge on such a wide variety of subjects was something to behold. Anyone who knew Bob knew that he was a loving father and a devoted husband, what else could anyone ask for. We cherished him.

Bob is survived by his wife, Margaret P. (Peck) Hess, truly the love of his life for almost 40 years. Bob was a proud father to his 2 children Robert A. Hess (Diane) and Denise L., wife of Scott Weik. Bob also doted on his 5 grandchildren, Kelsey A. Weik; Kyle S. Weik (husband to Megan C. Torres); Alyssa R. Hess; Kiera L. Hess, and William G. Weik. He never missed a sporting event, recital, concert, or graduation. He was always their biggest supporter and champion, always so proud of their accomplishments. Bob could not have been happier when his 6 great-grandchildren began arriving. He cherished them all even when they were sometimes far away. He loved them all so much; Lily, Aiden, Atlas, Max, Tesla, and Everett. Bob was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Jeanie.

The Family will be holding a Celebration of Life Service at a later date. All flowers and notes can be sent to their home, or to send an online condolence, visit the condolence page. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Columbia/Mountville.


Naomi A. Rutherford

Naomi A. Rutherford, 84, of St. John's Herr Estate, Columbia, passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2022 at Luther Acres. Born to the late Edwin E. and Naomi Nolte Rutherford, she lived in Marietta for many years in the Rutherford family home on Walnut Street. Naomi graduated from Donegal High School in 1955, its first graduating class. She was a member of Columbia United Methodist Church, and Eastern Star Chapter #422 for sixty years. She worked in retail and enjoyed people, sports and going to the movies, plus a good meal out.

She was preceded in death by her older brother Henry and twin brother Eddie. Naomi is survived by one niece: Anne Rutherford, Portland, OR, who will miss her “Aunt Nomie.”

The Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel at St. John's Herr Estate, 200 Luther Lane, Columbia on SATURDAY, JULY 23, 2022 AT 10:00 A.M. with Rev. Thomas Grubbs, officiating. Interment in Marietta Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 WalnutStreet, Columbia, PA 17512. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Larry W. White

 
 

Larry W. White, 73, of Camp Hill, passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at Holy Spirit Hospital. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Harris E. and Gladys Urich White. He was a Clerk for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, before his retirement. Larry enjoyed reading, hanging out with his friends at the mall, going to baseball games and other sporting events and was a car and racing enthusiast.

He is survived by two sons: David J. (Danelle) White, Lancaster and Philip M. (Mia) White, Mountville. Six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother.

Private Services will be held for the family. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Carol Lynn McDonald

 
 

Carol Lynn McDonald, 69, of Wrightsville, entered the Church Triumphant, unexpectedly at home, on Friday, May 20, 2022. She was born in Pacoima, CA, daughter of the late Leslie L. and Carolyn M. McDonald. Carol was a graduate of Hempfield High School and the Indiana University of PA with a BS in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education. She went on to obtain a Master's Degree from Millersville University. Education was one of her passions in life and she taught in the Hempfield School District for 35 years at Landisville, Centerville, Farmdale and Rohrerstown Elementary Schools until her retirement in 2010. Carol served for many years on the Hempfield Education Association as the building Representative, Secretary and as a member of the Negotiating Team. In retirement, she combined her passions of service and teaching and embarked on mission trips through SEA Ministries to 7 different countries on 3 continents, teaching and training adults and children. Carol was an active member of Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church where she served on Church Council and various committees. Her culinary delights and decorations will be missed at Fellowship events. Carol had a special passion for gardening and all green and growing plants. She was a graduate of the Master Gardener Program of Penn State University, and past president of the Green Thumb Garden Club, Red Lion. She loved presenting talks and workshops on gardening. Carol was a giver and served her community, church and world through her passions, and will be deeply missed by her cousins and her many friends.

The Memorial Service will be held at Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3825 Concordia Road, Columbia, PA 17512 on FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2022 AT 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Mary Anne Kingsborough, officiating. The Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment in the church cemetery. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church or SEA Ministries, PO Box 3007, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

James K. Harkins

 
 

James K. Harkins, 70, of West Hempfield Township, passed away on Friday, May 20, 2022 at home. He was the husband of Sharon M. Blacklock Harkins, with whom he celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary in September, 2021. He was born in Coatesville, son of the late Edward and Margaret J. Mullen Harkins. He was the owner of the former Mountville Inn, which was in his family for 50 years. He was a veteran of the US Army, serving during the Vietnam Conflict; was a lifetime member of Reese Hall VFW Post #8757; a member of the Thunderbirds Motorcycle Club and he loved riding motorcycles and spending time with his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife, three sons: Jess E. (Christie) Harkins, Marietta; Cody J. Harkins and Kyle A. Harkins, both of Columbia. One grandson. One brother: William (Carol) Harkins, Florida. He was preceded in death by one sister: Shirley Deck.

The Memorial Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 6:00 P.M. with Rev. Dr. Stephen P. Fritz, officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Ann S. Evans

Ann S. Evans, 81, of Conestoga, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2022. She was the wife of John J. Evans, Jr. with whom she would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 18, 2022. She was born in Lancaster, daughter of the late Aaron and Grace B. Sensenig King. She was a machine operator, having worked for Singing Needles, Leola and also worked for Schick, Inc. and Buckwalter Deli at Root's Market. Ann attended Bible Evangelical Methodist Church, New Danville. She loved purple and owned a purple Corvette, enjoyed working outside, riding motorcycles, and going on trips.

Surviving in addition to her husband, one daughter: Debra A. (Dale E.) Getz, Akron. Two grandchildren: Matthew (Kendell) Bartholomew and Morgan Bartholomew. Two great-grandchildren: Summer and Blake Bartholomew. One step-grandson: Landon E. Getz, Leola. One sister: Geraldine (Charles) Sheffield, New Holland. Other family members: John Paul and Tommy Linebaugh, York County. She is preceded in death by one sister: Phyllis Kurtz.

The Graveside Service and Interment will be held at Zeltenreich Cemetery, 752 Hollander Road, New Holland on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. Arrangements by Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence visit the condolence page.

Joanne H. Kauffman

 
 

Joanne H. Kauffman, 84, of Mountville, passed away on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at home surrounded by her loving family. Joanne was the wife of Richard L. Kauffman with whom they celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on November 23, 2021. She was born in Harrisburg, daughter of the late Howard W. and Grace V. Reidenbach Evans. She was a florist having worked for Barr's Flower Shop for 48 years. She was a Vagabondette as a member of the Vagabond Car Club. She enjoyed flowers, bird watching and wildlife.

Surviving in addition to her husband, one son: Michael (Kathleen) Benner. Two daughters: Kim S. (Franklin) Kendig and Kelly Jo Kauffman and her significant other Stephen DeMain. Four grandchildren: Shane, Kayla, Shawn and Eric. Six great-grandchildren. Two sisters: Bonnie Henrich and Elizabeth Brown. She was preceded in death by two brothers: Dale and Gene Pfeiffer.

The Private Service and Interment will be held in Masonville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125 Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Service Announcement for Mary E. Fisher

Mary E. Fisher, of West Hempfield Township, passed away on Saturday, May 7, 2022.

The Memorial gathering will be held at the Thunderbirds Motorcycle Club, Habecker Road, Columbia on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at 12:00 Noon. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia.

Donna (nee Forbes) Steiner

 
 

Donna (nee Forbes) Steiner, 84, of Brethren Village, passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2022, at her residence. She was born at home in Pierson, Iowa, daughter of the late Dewey W. and Veda Mae Vannorsdel Forbes. At the time of her marriage to Paul David Steiner in 1974, she was noted as Ms., Mrs. and Mom when she adopted Paul's two sons, David Paul and Jonathan L. Two years later, she gave birth to a third son, Ethan Greg. Donna is survived by her beloved husband Paul, three sons and nine grandchildren. The expanded family includes: David Paul and spouse Paula with grandson Aidan of Vienna, VA; Jonathan L. and spouse Ellen with grandchildren: Samuel, Edwin, Seth, Louisa, Christian and Sarah of Raleigh, NC; and Ethan Greg and spouse Patricia with grandchildren: Jackson and Annabelle of Richfield, OH. She is also survived by her brother Darlo's spouse: Tanya Sue; nieces: Rebecca Forbes Portere, Barbara Forbes Bell, Tonya Forbes Grimm and nephew: Eric W. Forbes. In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her brother: Wayne J. Forbes and spouse: Betty Lou and brother: Darlo W. Forbes.

Donna graduated with a Bachelor in Music Education from Drake University in 1959 and a Master of Religious Education from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1974. She was ordained to ministry in 1974. Prior to her seminary education, she volunteered two years with Brethren Volunteer Service in Nigeria, West Africa. Donna began her 50 plus years of ministry in Palmyra, serving pastorates in Illinois, Maryland (including co-pastoring with Paul) and Pennsylvania, including several short-term interims and as Associate Executive for Atlantic Northeast District (1997-2002). From 2008-2012 she worked with Elizabethtown College as Director of Church Relations.

In addition to pastoral ministry, Donna served on local, district and denominational boards and committees as well as providing leadership for congregations, educational workshops and women's retreats. She was a talented musician and played piano and organ. Interests and hobbies included: reading, travel, needlework, gardening and hosting friends. She was also a devoted caretaker of her husband Paul of nearly 48 years. Donna was a pioneer in exploring all she believed she could achieve and an inspiration to many who knew her and valued her friendship.

Following retirement in 2012, Donna and Paul moved to Brethren Village, Lititz. She was a devoted member of the Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren.

A Service of Remembrance will be held on SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. at Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren, 777 South Mount Joy Street, Elizabethtown, with a fellowship reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please direct contributions to: the Scholarship Fund, established in Donna's name, at Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374 or online at https//bethanyseminary.edu/giving-landing/ Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Ninel "Nelly" (Litinskaia) Novruzova

 
 

Ninel "Nelly" (Litinskaia) Novruzova, 89, Mount Joy passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital. She was the wife of the late Taptykh Novruzov. Ninel was born in Moscow, daughter of the late Avraam Litinsky, an engineer and the late Lubov Berger, a housewife, both of Shtetls, Ukraine: Novomirgorod and Shpola. The family eventually moved to Moscow in the early 1930's. Ninel was a bright kid, she loved music and learned to play piano like her elder sister, Valentina. When she was little, she played Bach's Invention, F major brilliantly and performed this piece live on the radio.

In 1941, Ninel, along with her sister, cousin, mother and maternal grandparents changed locations several times while running from the advancing Nazi army. In Orsk, in the Volga region, they became victims of the flood and lost many of their belongings. The family ended up in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Nellie remembered those hard times. She was starving; there was not enough bread to eat. The summers were hot and winters were very cold, and the family lived in the attic of the house. Ninel, although having a sweet tooth and being only 11 years old, was still sharing her meager allotment of sugar cubes or licorice with her sister and cousin. This became her essence: sharing, taking care of everyone around her and her loving kindness.

The whole family reunited in 1944 and went back to their apartment in Sokol neighborhood of Moscow. Ninel graduated high school with the Silver Medal. After the graduation, she went to engineering school and became a Civil Engineer. She began work as a Civil Engineer in Moscow and simultaneously continued her music education, which was interrupted by the second World War. During this time she met and married Taptykh Novruzov, a Ph.D. student in history from Azerbaijan. In the early 1960's, the couple moved to Baku, Azerbaijan, where their son, Djavid, was born. She worked as a Civil Engineer in Baku, Azerbaijan for many years. Widowed in 2001, she moved to the USA in 2005 to join her son in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. Ninel quickly transitioned into her new life in the USA, taking every available class in English at Urbana Adult Education. She became an avid participant in Thai Chi and folk dancing. She frequently volunteered at Champaign-Urbana Jewish Federation. She traveled with her son and visited many European countries, Morocco, Turkey, Argentina, and New Zealand to name just a few. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed long walks in Meadowbrook Park in Urbana. In the fall of 2021, Nelly and her son moved to Lancaster, where Nelly was welcomed by the local Baku Community.

Nellie is survived by her son: Djavid (Natalia) Novruzov. One grandson: Alex. One sister: Valentina. Nephews: Victor (Inna); Vladimir (Valentina) and Alexander (Natalia).

May the memories of Ninel be a blessing.

The Graveside Service and Burial was held at Silver Spring Cemetery. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.