Ella Mae Ruth (Hillegas) Spence

Spence

Ella Mae Ruth (Hillegas) Spence, 91, of Meyersdale, was transferred from her earthly tent to her heavenly one in Jesus on June 12, 2015. Born October 3, 1923 in Listie, the daughter of the late John E. and Ella (Coughenour) Hillegas. Also preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Robert David Spence; brother: James Hillegas; and sisters: Miriam (Edward) Knepper, Elizabeth (Fred) Schradel, and Madeline (J. Howard) Shumaker.

Survived by her “little brother”, Herbert E. Hillegas, Everett; chosen daughter and dear friend of 43 years, Gale Wood, Meyersdale and numerous nieces and nephews, who were very special to her.

Ella Mae will be remembered by her friendliness, expressive smiling eyes and caring spirit. She often stood for the “underdog”. A member of Meyersdale Church of the Brethren, where she taught Sunday School for many years, then taught in Youth Club and Kids Klub, where she was a “nurturer” as one parent said. She also sang in the choir and served on a number of commissions for the church. During WWII, she worked as an inspector at Kelley Springfield, where they were making ammunition. She also worked for G.C. Murphy’s as a sales clerk and in the shirt factory as a “sleever”.

Her family was important to her and often ministered to them. She loved children, gardening, music and working in her home. Ella Mae also had a gift of communication, especially with children.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Price Funeral Home, Meyersdale. Viewing from 10 a.m. until service at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Meyersdale Church of the Brethren, with Pastor Dottie Grew, Pastor Eric Shaulis, and Pastor Mike Swick officiating. Interment Meyersdale Area Union Cemetery.

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