Mary Elizabeth Hardy Lerch
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Mary Elizabeth Hardy Lerch, 92, of Gum Tree, Highland Township, died at her home on Sunday October 12, 2014. She was the widow of the late J. Kramer Lerch, Sr. who died in 2001. They shared 58 years of marriage.
Born in Coatesville, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Reba Marshall Hardy.
Mary was an area resident her entire life and a 1941 graduate of Coatesville High School. During WWII, she was employed at By-Products of Coatesville. Mary returned to work at age 46 at the Provident National Bank retiring at the age of 67.
She was a life long member of the Friendship United Methodist Church in Gum Tree where she started teaching Sunday School at the age of 15 and taught Sunday School and Bible School for over 40 years. She held several leadership positions in The Women's Society until recently and she sang in the church choir all her adult life. Mary was also involved in Century Club of Coatesville, The Greystone Society, the Salvation Army and Operation Thanksgiving and Operation Christmas. She and her husband also volunteered with Meals on Wheels and Mary helped bring Salvation Army bell ringing back to the streets of Coatesville.
She is survived by her four children, Rebecca L., wife of Richard Milley of Leola, Joseph K. Lerch, Jr., husband of Beth of Exton, David H. Lerch, husband of Nancy of Cochranville, Deborah A., wife of Dennis Shank of Cochranville, nine grandchildren; Jennifer Milley of Florida, Elizabeth Milley Mackey of CT, Clayton Lerch of Exton, Sean Shank of Norfolk, VA, Lauren Shank Kibler of Maryland, Phillip Shank, Andrew Shank, Maura Shank and Dianna Lerch all of Cochranville and three great grandchildren; Brendan Mackie, Kayla Mackie and Isabel Kibler. She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Jenna Lerch.
Funeral Services will be held Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 11am from the Friendship United Methodist Church, 123 E Friendship Church Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320 followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery. Family and friends are also invited to attend to viewing at the church on Wednesday evening from 6 to 8pm and also Thursday morning from 10 to 11am.
Mary loved flowers and if you wish, flowers may be sent or memorial donations may be made in Mary's memory to the Friendship UMC at the above address.
Condolences
sorry for your loss
Jane and I want you to know that Mary was a very sweet lady; She is definately in a better place now
deepest sympathy
To my dear friend Becky...
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. She was an amazing woman! May time ease your sorrow and soothe your soul.
Joe, Beck, David and Debbie,
Joe, Beck, David and Debbie, my deepest condolences for your loss. Aunt Mary was a wonderful person, growing up I always felt so welcomed in your home. God bless you all in this time of loss.
So sorry for your loss. She
So sorry for your loss. She was such a beautiful lady. I have many fond memories of picnics at your parents home in the summer....card club....trip to Alaska....choir and Sunday School. Mary always spoken with a soft caring voice and kindness. She touched many peoples lives! Prayers to your family during this time.
My deepest sympathies to each of you.
Dear Becky, Joe, David and Debbie, I was so sorry and saddened to hear of Aunt Mary's passing. Your Mom was a such a lovely woman. No matter our ages, it is difficult to lose a parent, I hope you all find some comfort in one another and your families. Love and condolences, Linda Rea
Deepest Sympathy
To the family - Deepest sympathy in the loss of your mother and grandmother. Mothers hold a special place in our hearts. May you keep many fond memories close to your hearts. God is our refuge and strength.
Blessings. Cindy Hartshorne Walton
DEBBIE and family
Sorry for the loss of your mother. It's been a long time since we have been in contact(high school?). stay strong, and live life to the fullest. MARK
Becky-
Becky-
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
We love you!
Sorry for your loss.
Joey,
Sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Joyce (Hall) Ford
SO sorry to hear of your mother's passing
Becky, Joe, David, Debbie,
I was saddened to see the obituary for your mother. She always seemed so full of life, although I know it has been difficult for her the last few years. The memories I have of Friendship always include your mother - she was involved in every part of the church and always had a kind smile and a friendly word. You and your families are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Dale
sincere sympathy
sincere sympathy to the family of MARY LERCH - we knew her from the bank in COATESVILLE an also when she and your father KRAMER used to come to the store- such a sweet couple and they would always tell us of their travels - may all your memories console you now. SINCERELY, NANCY ;PITCHERELLA
Sorry for your loss
Im so sorry to hear about Mary's passing. I met your mother when working a Hickory House. She was the sweetest lady. So kind. I'm glad I got to see her a while later with her daughter while at Dutchway, eating lunch. She always had a smile on her face when I seen her. Take care!