Obituaries

Mary Balla, age 77, of North Scranton and formerly of Taylor, passed away Sunday at Geisinger Community Medical Center, after an illness.
Born in Taylor on September 16, 1937, daughter of the late August, Sr., and Mary Penta Balla, Mary was a graduate of the former Taylor High School, Class of 1954. Of Roman Catholic faith, she was a longtime member of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Old Forge, before its closure.
She loved the polkas and adored her two cats, “Gigi” and “Mindy.” She will be forever missed by her loved ones.
She is survived by her adoring daughter, Ann Marie Balla and companion Donald Stott, with whom she resided; her niece, Cheryl Celmer of Dickson City; The family would like to give thanks and praise to her caregiver and friend, Kathleen Creegan of Scranton.
Her brother, August Balla, Jr., and her sister, Romaine Celmer, also preceded her in death.
Her daughter would like to express her gratitude to the staff of G.C.M.C.’s I.C.U. for the care and compassion shown toward Mary throughout her stay.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s name to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, South Abington Twp., 18411.
A Memorial Mass is scheduled for Tuesday at 10:30AM in Divine Mercy Church, 312 Davis Street in Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Francis L. Pauselli, Pastor. Private interment, Holy Cross Cemetery, Old Forge.
Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Tuesday from 10:00AM until Mass.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge.