Obituaries May 2018 Issue

LIPPINCOTT — Lynn B. Lippincott, Sr., 88, a resident of Merion Gardens in Carneys Point, passed away on Monday, March 26. He was the only son of Grace Budd Lippincott and Alvan G. Lippincott of Swedesboro. His family includes Lynn Jr., Gary, (both of MA), Mark (Kim McGhee) of Toronto, Canada, Hope Kibler, and Lesa Swift. He was the grandfather of Ian (Courtney) Lippincott, Aja (Frank) Talarico, Aaron Lippincott, Sean and Ryan Swift, and Nicole Kibler and great grandfather of Lochlyn Lippincott and Vivian Talarico. His wife of 67 years, Arden M. Lippincott, predeceased him in September 2017.

A 1946 graduate of Swedesboro High School, he worked in the family business, delivering milk for Clearview Farm for many years and to many customers throughout the area. He was also a chemical operator at Dupont Chambers Works in Deepwater beginning in 1968 for nearly 25 years. The home he and Arden built on Kings Highway in Pilesgrove where they lived for over 50 years was a source of pride and he spent a lot of time on his Farmall tractors and caring for his horses there.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. John’s UMC of Harrisonville, P.O. Box 2, Harrisonville, NJ 08039. Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to his family.

DERSCH — Harriet Helen Dersch, age 98, passed away Monday, March 26 in Naples, FL. She was born December 8, 1919 in Swedesboro to Frederick Hoelle and Elsie Herzog Hoelle. Harriet lived in Clarksboro most of her life before moving to Mullica Hill, Turnersville and then to Naples in 2004. She was a long-time member of the Evangelical United Methodist Church in Clarksboro and worked at the Community College of Philadelphia.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, William C. Dersch and her brother, Kurt F. Hoelle. She is survived by her sons, Paul E. Dersch (Lorraine) of Turnersville and William F. Dersch (Joyce) and daughter, Margaret D. Carpenter, both of Naples, FL; her grandchildren, Thomas, David and Paul Michael Dersch, Jennifer Parsons and Patricia Ardito; and great-grandchildren, Eric and Ryan Dersch, Emily Garber, Justin and Tyler Ardito, and Albert and John Thomas Parsons.

The funeral service was held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

NELSON — Olen Clyde Nelson, age 83, of Mullica Hill (formerly Elmer) left this world peacefully on March 27. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Emma Jean (nee Jenkins) and his daughter, Betty Jo. He is survived by his children, Garnette Begley (Eddy, deceased), Faye Seiner (George), Mary Pallacovitch (Daniel), Patricia Williams (John), Ronnie Nelson (Gayle), and Rhonda Zawora (Ron), in addition to his sisters, Essie Adkins, Garnet Huff, Magdaline Buff Tuller, and Eva Maynard Betts. Twelve grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren loved him dearly.

Olen was born in Lincoln County, West Virginia. He moved with his wife and family to New Jersey in the 1950s. He was a dairy farmer for the majority of his life. Olen enjoyed gardening, bowling, watching the horse races, and playing the slots at the casino.

The family has suggested that donations can be sent to Operation Smile, 3641 Faculty Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23453 (operationsmile.org) in Olen’s memory.

HENCE — Winston T. Hence Jr., 41, of Mt. Royal passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on March 27 at Inspira Hospital in Woodbury.

GDOWIK — Eleanor Gdowik, 87. She was strong in her faith; Eleanor was a lifelong Catholic with a great devotion to Padre Pio. She’d endeavor to pass her faith on to her children; they spent noon to three on Good Fridays reading the Bible, a lit candle in the living room. Even their friends regularly attended the event with “Sister Eleanor.” She also nurtured her creative spirit, painting in oil and water; everything from landscapes to portraits of her grandchildren. And she dabbled a bit in ceramics and song. Eleanor cooked with the best of them: 3 layer Jello and red velvet cake. Her trick to Guampki: Tomato Soup. Holidays found her bringing her family back home to her; Eleanor always hosted. And she did likewise in the summertime; a yearly trip to Ocean City Maryland and later to Sea Isle. A young Eleanor Kozuhowski would meet a nice Polish boy: the late John. She thought he was a wisenheimer; probably a good call considering he gave a kid a quarter to borrow his bike to jokingly pick her up on their first date. That date led to a marriage that was blessed by three children: Judy (John Gangemi) Conway, Janet (Fred) Enzman and John Gdowik; grandchildren, Christopher, Jennifer, Fred IV, Matthew and Gage; and great-grandchildren, Dylan, Ella and Kyle John.

Services were held at Daley Life Celebration Studio, Swedesboro. In lieu of flowers, be like Eleanor and give generously to the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarrior.org).

GEIS — Henry S. Geis, 86. Like his father before him, Henry was an electrician; proud to power the world with Local 98. He wired many of the casinos, but his crowning achievement was to light the Ben Franklin Bridge.

He was a strict dad, but only because he wanted to raise quality kids: tow the lines or head for the hills. If he heard a catchy tune he’d be the first to grab the mic and sing along or dance to “Proud Mary”, probably dating back to his 9 years in the navy when he was in a band. Henry was a stickler for golf etiquette: keep it moving, replace your divots. He had a home on Wedgewood and was runner up in the club championship at Woodbury. He’d eat just about anything, but he always found some room for some ice cream. If he got loose he’d most likely be heading off for the casinos to battle the slots.

Through friends he’d manage a date with the lovely Jacqueline Wilson. “Remember how to make this Pepper Steak for when we’re married.” he’d tell her. Maybe confident; maybe prophetic, but in any case, they wed when he returned home from the Mediterranean. Their union was blessed by three children: Rosemarie DeYoung (John Forde), Mary Helen Spring (Joe Nicoletto) and Jacqueline (Mike) Smith; and later by grandchildren, Patrick, Steven, Thomas, Erin and Michael. He is survived by his siblings, Eleanor Trent and Paul Geis.

Services were held at Daley Life Celebration Studio, Swedesboro. Donations to Heartland Hospice, 1385 Chews Landing Road, Clementon NJ 08021 will be appreciated.

THOMAS — Helen F. (Ryan)Thomas, 99, lifelong South Jersey resident, died on April 1, Easter morning. Helen was born March 16, 1919 in Mullica Hill to William J. Ryan and Francis (Shea) Ryan. She graduated from Glassboro High School. Helen was a proud graduate of Glassboro State College, now Rowan University. Helen began her teaching career at Harrison Township Elementary School. After she started dating the Harrison principal, she had to move to Gibbstown Elementary, where she happily taught for over 35 years. She took great joy when her students would ask “Mrs. Thomas,” if they remembered them, decades later, and she would recall each of them and ask after their siblings.

In 1945, Helen married that principal, Granville “Granny” S. Thomas, Ed.D. She had fond memories of traveling across the country by train to stay with Granny for several months in San Francisco, where he was last stationed during the war. Helen and Granny lived in Mullica Hill, where they welcomed their daughter, Susan, in 1946. They soon moved to Salem when Granny became the Superintendent of Salem City Schools.

Helen loved to travel with Granny, including trips to Ireland and countless trips to the Jersey Shore and Nags Head, N.C., where Granny would fish and Helen would read on the beach. Helen loved bridge, her beautiful home in Salem, and dinner out with friends and family. After retiring, Helen spent many years volunteering at the Memorial Hospital of Salem County. After Granny passed away in 1984, Helen spent her summers and Christmases with her grandchildren and, later, great-grandchildren, in Idaho. She continued to travel with her friends and her daughter, to many places including Italy, Florida, and San Francisco.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and brothers William “Bill” Ryan (Marguerite) and John Ryan. She is survived by her daughter, Susan D. Thomas, Eagle, ID; grandchildren, Matthew F. McColl (Jenny), Boise, ID; Sam R. McColl (Kimberly), Nashville, TN; Katherine T. McColl, Kuna, ID; and great-granddaughters, Malia and Liberty McColl.

Helen would have appreciated a donation to any charity serving children.

REED — Donald K. Reed Sr. age 63 years of Clarksboro died Tuesday, April 3 in Inspira Hospital, Woodbury.

Don was born in Miami, Florida and raised in Gibbstown, graduating from Paulsboro High School Class of 1973. He wrestled and played football while in school and later coached midget wrestling. Don was well known by many for owning and operating Don & Bert’s Custard for over 25 years. After his retirement his passion was working for the Phillies and spending time with his family. He also enjoyed harness racing and owned several horses.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Priscilla Reed (nee Piloto) of Clarksboro; his sons, Donald K. Jr. and Meghan Reed of Burke, Virginia and Kyle and Liz Reed of Philadelphia; his grandsons, Jackson, Mason and Cooper; his granddaughter, Sadie and his mother, Bertha Reed of Gibbstown. Don was predeceased by his father, Donald C. Reed and his brother, Dwayne Reed.

The funeral service was held the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made in his memory to Eagles Autism Challenge Inc. (please note Liz Reed in memo) 1 Novacare Way, Phila. PA 19145 or Phillies Charities Inc., 1 Citizens Bank Way, Phila., PA 19148. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

GLOCKER — Robert A. Glocker (aka Bob or Rib) age 90 of Repaupo – Logan Township passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday April 3 at home with his family by his side.

Bob grew up on the family farm in Mickleton, where he attended Paulsboro High School and played football, basketball and baseball. After playing football his junior year of high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy and served proudly in World War II. After the war, he returned home and began his working career at E.I. DuPont at the Repauno Plant in Gibbstown, retiring after 38 years in 1983.

He married his high school sweetheart, Jean (nee Shoemaker) in 1947 and celebrated 70 years of marriage this past June. He is survived by his wife, Jean; children, Robyn Glocker-Hammond (Ralph), Susan Steiner (Howard), David Glocker (Wendy); his grandchildren, Brittany Hammond, Katelyn Elliott (Chris), Kyle Steiner, Brad Steiner, Jessica Herrmann, Gabrielle Glocker, Robert Glocker and his great granddaughter, Charlotte Elliott. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Elmer and Elizabeth Glocker and all of his siblings. Bob leaves many nieces and nephews.

Bob ran for public office in 1960 and was elected to the position of Tax Assessor for Logan Township and served in that capacity until 1978. During his tenure as Tax Assessor he also served on the Logan Township Board of Health, Logan Township Planning Board, Registrar of Vital Statistics and for the past 31 years on the Logan Township Environmental Commission. He was a past member of the Repaupo Volunteer Fire Company. In 1988 he became the Tax Assessor for the Boro of Paulsboro and served as Deputy Tax Assessor until April 2013.

He coached Gibbstown Little League Baseball for 11 years in the 1960’s – 70’s and was a season ticket holder for many years with the Phillies. Bob began his real estate career in the 1970’s and in 1977 opened Glocker Realty in Gibbstown and remained there until June 1999.

Bob enjoyed traveling with his family having visited all 50 states and many national parks. Later when grandchildren came along many trips were made to Disney World and Bob enjoyed 17 summers at his Brigantine home. Milestone anniversaries were celebrated in Alaska and Europe.

In his spare time, Bob would be found tinkering with his Model A or in his backyard constructing walkways, sheds or watering his many flower gardens. The funeral service was held at the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made in his memory to the Paulsboro High School Baseball Team, c/o Dave Glocker, 169 Repaupo Station Rd., Logan Twp., NJ 08085. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

LaGROSSA — Anthony John LaGrossa, loving husband and father, passed away April 7 at the age of 69. Born in Key West, FL, his family relocated to South Jersey where he spent his early years.

Anthony was a lifelong artist. He received his Associate’s degree from Hussian School of Art, after which he designed greeting cards at Hallmark in Kansas City, Mo. He returned to Philadelphia, where he received his BFA at Tyler School of Art, and met his wife Gretchen. Settling in the Philadelphia area, Anthony had a successful career as an illustrator and art director in the advertising industry. After retiring, he spent much time working in watercolor and oil painting, winning numerous awards for his artwork. He was also a member of the Philadelphia Sketch club.

Anthony was proud of his home in South Jersey, an old sandstone house built in the late 1700s. He saw the property as a peaceful retreat in the fields of South Jersey, and enjoyed making constant improvements to the house, barns, and grounds. When not working on a home project, he could be found relaxing on the hammock, painting in his studio, or where many remember him, throwing another log onto the bonfire.

What brought him the most joy at this home, was the time spent with his family and friends in the life he created with Gretchen by his side. Anthony is survived by his wife of 39 years, Gretchen Danz LaGrossa; two children, Anna (Brent) Hoffman and Anthony Danz LaGrossa; two sisters, Harriette (Ted) Wasserman and Susie Hernandez; many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Anthony Donato LaGrossa. Anthony was blessed with and loved by many friends, neighbors, and relatives whom he loved very much. Donations in his memory to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Eastern Pa. Chapter, 100 N 20th St, Ste 405, Phila Pa. 19103 would be appreciated. Arrangements by the CHEEGA FUNERAL HOME, Swedesboro.

DeVAULT — Dorothy K. DeVault (nee Knabe) age 92 years of Mt. Royal died Tuesday, April 10 in her home with her family by her side. She was born in Paulsboro, raised in Clarksboro and graduated from Swedesboro High School Class of 1943.

Mrs. DeVault worked on the production line at Columbia Records in Pitman for several years. She was a past member of the East Greenwich Senior Citizens Club, a member of the Logan Township Senior Citizens Club and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Anthony T. Calista V.F.W. Post No. 5579, Gibbstown. Mrs. DeVault enjoyed cooking and baking, traveling and taking pictures and time spent with her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Donna Fagan; her grandchildren, William Blemings and Stephanie Blemings; her great-grandchildren, Christopher Blemings and J.J. Repas and her sister, Betty Cassaday. Mrs. DeVault was predeceased by her husband, Howard R. DeVault.

The funeral service was held at the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

WEBBER — Ernest Earl “Webb” Webber of Mickleton, passed away on Thursday, April 12, at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife, Mary Webber (Mecholsky); daughter, Monica Hawkins and husband Leigh; daughter, Linda Futia and husband Dan; grandchildren, Amanda, Matthew, Brandon, Justin, and Blaise; great-grandchildren, Gabrielle, Elise, Kian, and Quentin; brothers, Raymond and Ronnie. Ernest is predeceased by his brother, Wilburn and sisters, Hazel and Sylvia.

Ernest was born in Lynchburg, Virginia on January 2, 1929 and raised in Gibbstown, NJ. In January 1946, he enlisted in the US Navy and served on active duty until November 1947. Upon being honorably discharged, he was awarded the Victory Medal and then served an additional 14 years in the Naval Reserve. During his Navy career, he obtained the rank of Seaman First Class.

In 1949, Ernest began working at Mobil in Paulsboro, NJ. After 38 years, he retired with the position of safety inspector. Married since May 27, 1950, the well-traveled Ernest and Mary made their home a gathering place for friends and family. Many generations of the extended Mecholsky family would learn to swim in their backyard pool or attend a family reunion at their annual 4th of July barbecue. Throughout their years together, it was also very common sight to find Ernest and Mary on their patio laughing and reminiscing with friends and family.

Ernest was an avid gardener. At his home in Mickleton, he would meticulously tend to his fruits and vegetables that he freely provided to family and neighbors. In his later years at the Vineland Veterans Memorial Home, Ernest would tend to the garden beds in their courtyard growing a proud array of vegetables and flowers for the enjoyment of his fellow residents. Ernest was a kind person with a big heart.

While living in Mickleton, he was a member of VFW Post No. 5579 and senior citizen groups in both East Greenwich Township and Paulsboro. Upon moving to the Memorial Home, he became active in representing his fellow patients at Veterans Affairs events. He cared about making others happy there and formed a close friendship with Henry Speed and Joe Postorino with whom he shared a mutual love of horse racing and poker.

He was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed. The family asks that you make a donation in honor of Ernest Webber to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5579, or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Memories, thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family by visiting dlfuneral.com.

SPINA — Susan A. Spina, 62 of Woolwich Township went home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 16.

Born in Camden, she moved to Woolwich Township five months ago after living in Clayton for 38 years. Susan was a member of the Victory Assembly of God Church in Centerton and had worked as a clerk for Shop-Rite in Williamstown for 28 years before retiring.

Susan is survived by her husband of 43 years Samuel Spina, her children, Adrienne (Lawrence) Burton, Heather (Michael) McCullough and Michael (Sandi) Spina, 12 Grandchildren, her Siblings, Carol (Steven) Kashow, Laura (Stephen) Baptist, John (Maria) Freund and Jef (Marjorie) Freund.

Funeral services were held at the Cheega Funeral Home, Swedesboro. Contributions in her memory to the Colleen Sorbello Breast Cancer Foundation, 2192 N. W. Blvd, Vineland, NJ 08360 or Heartland Hospice, 1385 Chews Landing Rd. Clementon, NJ 08021 would be appreciated.

SIMONE — Helen B. Simone (nee Shope) passed away on April 20, 2018 of Mickleton, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, age 94 yrs. Beloved wife of the late Frank J. Devoted mother of Daniel J. (Ma Elena), Anthony (Patricia), Rita Adams (George), and Mary Ann Jennings (Mark). Dear sister of Alfred Shope. Loving grandmother of Mark, Jr, Theresa, and John. Great-grandmother of Connor, Molly, Ariel, Alexandra, Elijah, Soriya, John, Jr., and Tiegan.

Mrs. Simone lived in N.E. Philadelphia before moving to Mickleton. She enjoyed entertaining family and spending time at the park.

To express condolences please visit landolfifuneralhome.com.

 

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