Maryella Hoy

MaryElla Hoy, 100, of Schuylkill Haven, peacefully passed away at home on Wednesday evening, May 22nd, surrounded by 5 generations of her family.

Born in Schuylkill Haven on September 24, 1923, she was a daughter of the late Guy & Ella (Dietrich) Douglas.

She was the widow of Robert John Hoy, with whom she shared a beautiful life and had three children. Despite being a younger widow, MaryElla often shared cherished memories of her late husband. Later in life, she reconnected with her grade school friend Floyd Brown in her 90s, and together they shared many adventures and laughs until his passing.

MaryElla graduated from Schuylkill Haven High School in 1941. She had a deep love for education and took great joy and pride in the educational achievements of her children and grandchildren. She truly loved learning.

She was a devoted member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ of Summer Hill in Auburn. For 49 years, Mary Ella served as a church organist at several different churches, a role she cherished deeply. This was one of her life's most prized accomplishments and passions, bringing her immense joy and pride. Additionally, she sang in the Schuylkill County Community Chorus for 29 years. MaryElla's love for music was a significant aspect of her life. Until her final moments, she found joy in her cherished records and soundtracks, playing them on repeat. She took immense pride in her role as an organist, and to know MaryElla was to understand her profound passion for music.

MaryElla loved sharing stories of her worldly travels and often reflected on those fond memories. She was always ready for a game of 500 rummy or to tackle a crossword puzzle. One of her favorite artists was Elvis Presley, and she could frequently be heard singing 'Love Me Tender.' She always aspired to celebrate her 100th birthday, which she joyfully did this past September, surrounded by many loving friends and family. To make the occasion even more special, her caring in-home nurses arranged for “Elvis Presley” to make a surprise appearance.

MaryElla was employed by several local factories, as well as the Redco Group and the Arts and Ethnic Center at the Yuengling Mansion. She continued to work late into her life, not retiring until she was nearly 80 years old.

In addition to her parents and husband, MaryElla was also preceded in death by her son, Robert Hoy; her half-sister, Doris Hikes; and her grandson-in-law, Kim Wolfe. MaryElla's mother passed away during childbirth, and she often spoke of looking forward to meeting her mother one day when she passed on. (In her passing, we hope she is smiling down on us, joyfully reunited with her mother after 100 years.)

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne, wife of  Frank Koperna, of Schuylkill Haven;  a son, William Hoy, of Knoxville, TN; grandchildren: Justine (Snipps) Reber and Husband Mike Reber, Francine Wolfe, Robert Koperna and Wife Norma Silver, Bradley Hoy and Wife April Hoy, Ryan Hoy, Caitlen Ambrose and Husband Nate Ambrose, great-grandchildren: Diona Sterner and Husband Wade Sterner, Justin Clauser and Wife Kelly Clauser, Dylan and partner Rylee Worthy, Jenna Reber, Rachael Wolfe and Partner Alex Nguyen, Alison Wolfe, Alexis Koperna, Brett Koperna, and Anthony Koperna, Johnathan Hoy, and Samantha Hoy, great-great-grandchildren, Ella Sterner, Kiyah Clauser, Jett Clauser, Macie Sterner, and Ezra Elliott; and several nieces & nephews.

MaryElla was affectionately known as Grandma not only to her own family but also to so many friends who loved her dearly. She shared countless laughs, holidays, and special moments with both her family and her chosen family. She felt incredibly blessed to be surrounded by such love.

Special thanks to the CompassUs girls who provided exceptional care for MaryElla. They quickly became like family to her, and we are forever indebted for their unwavering support.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, May 29th St. Paul's United Church of Christ of Summer Hill, Auburn with Pastor Kenneth McDowell officiating. A viewing will be held at the church from 9:30 AM until the time of service.

Interment will follow at St. Peter's Lutheran Church Cemetery, Pine Grove.

At the family's request, memorial donations may be forwarded to St. Pauls United Church of Christ of Summer Hill, 1235 Summer Hill Road Auburn, PA 17922.