Betty J. Firestine, 98, of Pine Grove, formerly of Myerstown and Lewistown, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2021. She was the wife of Howard Firestine for 78 years; they were married on April 28, 1943.
Born in Lebanon County on October 18, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Edward E. and Florence M. Spangler. Betty was a dedicated wife and homemaker who enjoyed spending time serving her family. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed baking. She also loved caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Nancy Gockley and her husband Glenn, of Myerstown, Dennis Firestine, of Bethel, and Sharon Schell and her husband Brian, of Lebanon; grandchildren Sean and Justin Firestine, Kristel Bell, James Schware and Ashley Britt; fifteen great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren with the fifth one on the way.
She was preceded in death by sisters Willette Fry, Pauline Haskell, Irene Esbenshade, Florence Ruppenthal, Alverta Spangler, and Marguerite Swoyer, and brothers Edward Spangler and Harold L. Spangler.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on August 28, 2021, at her daughter’s residence in Lebanon. Her final resting place will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Compassus, 1001 James Dr., Suite 34, Leesport, PA 19533.
