Marian Matthews Heller

Marian Matthews Heller, 88, entered into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, May 29, 2014. She was born in Berwick on June 3, 1925, the daughter of Mary Bierley Campbell and Forrest Eddy Campbell, Sr. She was a graduate of Berwick Area High School class of 1943. She attended Eastern Illinois State Teachers College for two years after high school, majoring in music. During World War II, she worked in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania at the United States Naval Depot. On March 26, 1947 Marian married James Fahringer Matthews. His death in 1972 severed a marital span of 25 years. She was also married to Earl Heller, Jr. from 1980 until his death in 1986. Music was an integral part of Marian's life. For many years she played in various musical groups in the area; had her own radio show on WCNR entitled "Melodies by Marian;" taught Organ at Berwick High School for several years; and was the children's choir director and assistant organist at Bower Memorial United Methodist Church for many years. Though musically trained, Marian also played by ear, and her music touched and blessed many listeners. Marian spent the last nine years of her life at Elmcroft of Berwick. She enjoyed her time there, and all of the staff were like a second family to her. In addition to her husbands, Marian was preceded in death by a son, Lee James Matthews in 1978, and a brother, Forrest Campbell Junior of California. She is survived by her children: Earl Matthews (Karen Nuss) of Berwick, William Matthews (Debbie) of West Chester, PA., Todd Matthews (Lorraine) of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey; grandchildren: Jessica Mutchler of Danville, Jennifer Wenger, Jason Matthews, Brandon Matthews, Cara Mia Paciocco, Frank Marinelli, and Nick Marinelli. She is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren, a sister, Christine Wright of Berwick, niece, Susan Wright of Berwick, and several other nieces. Marian's funeral is 2:00 PM Monday, June 2nd at the Bower Memorial United Methodist Church, 140 East 2nd St., Berwick. Friends may call at the church from 1:00 PM until time of the service. Pastor Ralph Hartenbach will serve as the officiant. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Bower Memorial United Methodist Church, 140 E. 2nd St., Berwick, PA. 18603.