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Obituary
Esther Simone, who celebrated her 91st birthday on August 28th, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, in Flourtown, PA. A longtime resident of Hazleton, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Kathryn (Gallagher) McNelis and a member of St. Cyril and Methodius Parish at St. Joseph’s Church.
Esther was a selflessly loving wife, mother, and Nana whose greatest joy was her family. Her strong Catholic faith and daily novena were the foundation of her life, and she embraced life’s simple pleasures—Chick-fil-A frosted lemonades, chocolate marshmallow ice cream, word searches, mystery novels, The Crown, and the satisfaction of hanging clothes to dry on the line. She formed lasting friendships during her years at Boscov’s Department Store, where she took pride in her work and could recall her employee number until her final days. Esther’s spirit lives on in the traditions she created and cherished: her beloved stuffing recipe, her collection of Santa Claus ornaments, her steadfast devotion to the Fighting Irish, and her enduring love of reading and time spent sitting on the porch.
Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents, were her husband of 62 years, William Simone, in 2021; brothers James and William McNelis; and sisters Mary McNelis and Jeanne Rybarczyk.
She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Osborne; son, Timothy Simone; granddaughters, Victoria, Krista, and Colleen Osborne; great-granddaughter, Thea; and her grand-dog, Winnie. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 16th, at 9:30 A.M. in St. Cyril and Methodius Parish at St. Joseph’s Church, Hazleton. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Drums.
Her family feels deeply grateful and lucky to have had her love and light in their lives.
The Joseph A. Moran Funeral Home, 229 W. 12th St., Hazleton, is in charge of the arrangements. -
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