Long-time East Side New Castle resident, Mary Ellen Jessel, died Wednesday, June 19, 2019. She was 102. Born January 31, 1917, in Wampum, PA, she was the daughter of Nellie Dillon and Joseph Henry Lalley. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Howard Jessel, Sr. and a son, Walter, Jr.

Mary Ellen worked in retail sales as an employee of Winter's Clothing Co. and enjoyed being a starter at Sylvan Heights Golf Course. As a self-described community activist, Mary Ellen frequented city council meetings for decades and declared her candidacy for a seat in the early 1960s. Her association with the New Castle Transit Authority also brought her a sense of civic fulfillment, as did her roles in the B.P.O.E. Elks, both regionally and nationally.

Survivors include her daughter, Jo-Ann (Max) Broadbent, of Key West, FL; a son, John (Sandra) Jessel, of Sevierville, TN, a sister, Betty Doran, of New Castle; as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to Mary Ellen's long-time church home, Christ Lutheran Church, 1302 E Washington St, New Castle, PA 16101; or Jameson Hospice, 1000 S Mercer St, New Castle, PA 16101.

In keeping with her wishes, all services were held privately.