Margery "Margie" A. Bennett

Margery A. (Margie) Bennett, 81, of Biglerville, died Feb. 6, 2017 at home. She was born May 4, 1935 in Ligonier, a daughter of Gordon and Nancy McKelvey. She grew up in Ligonier, graduated in 1953 from Ligonier High School, and worked for a short time at the Smart Shop, a women's clothing store in Ligonier. In high school she took commercial and secretarial courses and was assigned as student secretary to several members of the faculty. She also sang in the high school choir. She married Robert L. Bennett, then also of Ligonier, on June 19, 1953, and they had three children, Robert Jr., Ronald and Rebecca (Becky). In addition to her husband of sixty-three years, and her children, she is survived by a sister Vie and her husband Bob Fliess, of Saint Clairsville, Ohio, and three grandchildren: Russell, Nathan and Rachelle. Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Betty Eichler of Kittanning; and a brother- and sister-in-law, Harry and Joan Bennett of Battlement Mesa, Colorado; along with numerous nieces and nephews. After her husband graduated from Penn State the family moved to Biglerville, where in 1960 he founded Penn Forestry Company, which today is operated by their son Ron. In the company's early years she assisted with secretarial duties. She was active in the Centenary United Methodist Church in Biglerville for many years, and was a creative teacher of classes for young children. Later she assisted her husband with the youth group at the church. She visited her children's classes when they were in elementary school, and attended their school events. She solicited donations door-to-door for charity, and frequently visited elderly or ailing neighbors and made baked goods for them. All of her life, she loved beautiful clothing, and always dressed meticulously. She also loved birds and animals, especially several long-lived pet cats. She worked as a home health aide for Lutheran Social Services in Gettysburg for several years before stopping work to care for her aging parents in her home. After her husband retired, the couple enjoyed taking their travel trailer on trips to Florida and Maine, sometimes accompanied by Margie's sister. She was extremely proud of her grandchildren, and enjoyed family get-togethers at the cabin. Arrangements are being handled by Dugan Funeral Home, Bendersville. A private service will be held at funeral home at the convenience of the family. The Rev. John H. Witmer will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the Adams County SPCA. Burial will be Ligonier at a later date.