A matriarchal guiding light has been extinguished. A bright star lost its luster when Mary Nickischer passed away peacefully in her home on October 10, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was a proud 1958 honors graduate from Easton High School and a 1962 Cum Laude graduate from East Stroudsburg University. She retired after a 30-year career teaching English and Writing at Philipsburg High School and the Middle School.

In September 1958, a mutual love was born with future husband Ken, beginning a lifetime commitment and an enviable journey - - a love affair of 61 years with their marriage in January, 1962. They were each other's rock and an inseparable team.

Her steadfast love for life and family was documented daily by her never-ending work ethic, candid honesty, personal sacrifices, and unselfish generosity. Simply stated, she was a dedicated champion and cheerleader for her children and grandchildren. They were always closest to her heart, and all are richer because of her nurturing influence and guidance. Her personal happiness was always defined by the unwavering pride she modestly exhibited when recalling successes and accomplishments of children and grandchildren. They represented the ultimate joys of life - - her greatest treasure - - paying memorable dividends on her investment of time, advice, and role modeling.

Passionately reflecting on their lives and values as responsible parents and citizens was a constant reward. If genuine motherhood were an olympic sport, her lifelong performance as recounted by children and grandchildren would have earned her a plethora of gold medals. Her inspirational legacy will live on and be revered through each of them.

On her perennial trips to Myrtle Beach with Ken, she relished the simple rejuvenating pleasures provided by warm ocean water and sunrises and sunsets at the beach. Although many wonderful memories were created by a variety of travel experiences, none were as precious as the traditions forged by family togetherness.

She is survived by a loving and appreciative family: husband Ken, sister Pauline, daughters Kelly (Steve), Kim (John), Kristin (Christopher); 6 grandchildren: Nick (Jenna), Lindsey (Adam), Evan (Teresa), J.T. (Katie), Owen and Dane; 3 great grandchildren: Jackson, Andrew, and Miles, and another due in December.

Services are private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are entrusted to Morello Funeral Home, Inc., 3720 Nicholas Street, Easton, PA (Palmer Twp.) Acknowledgments in her memory can be offered by contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or LVHN Hospice, 2024 Lehigh Street, Suite 100, Allentown, PA 18103. Online condolences may be offered at www.morellofuneralhome.com