Marcia Lee Palmer Ellis

Marcia Lee Palmer Ellis, age 80, of Bethel Park, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024.She was born in New Kensington, PA, on November 11, 1943, to the late John and Helen Palmer.

Marcia was the beloved wife of the late Herb Ellis, whom she married on September 27, 1975, loving and adored mother of Megan Lynn (Bob) Ellis-Lewis and Kylee Anne (Chris) Oliastro, Cherished “Grammy” of Matilda Houser and Nico Oliastro, and sister of Dari Gilpin. In addition to her parents, Marcia was predeceased by her brother, Jack Palmer, as well as her grandparents Matilda and John Palmer, and her precious dog, Cody. Marcia was head majorette at Connellsville Joint High School and continued twirling in college. Her girls enjoyed hearing her stories of twirling her fire baton.

Marcia graduated from California University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelors in Education. She taught 3rd grade for 11 years in the Connellsville Area School District before getting married and opting to be the CEO of raising her two girls. Marcia was the type of mother whose childrens’ loves and interests became her loves and interests. She could sing every song from New Kids on the Block, catch you up on a missed episode of MTV’s Real World or Dance Moms, and she liked to keep up with the Kardashians. Marcia was “the cool mom”. Her daughters’ friends knew her well and enjoyed spending time at their house. She was a professional window shopper; we often envision her walking into the food court at the mall and be welcomed like Norm from Cheers. She loved to walk the mall and stop at Rite Aid to pick up a Dove candy bar to enjoy while looking over her purchases. Marcia knew how to enjoy the simple things in life; a good Lifetime movie, an ice cream sundae, or a scary movie at Halloween (part of her favorite season, Fall). She took the time to really reflect in the moment and enjoy things. Marcia loved hitting the shops, local farmers markets, church carnivals, seasonal events, restaurants, and her grandchildren’s functions with her family. When faced with life’s adversities, Marcia was tough and resilient. She could also be a jokester and had a great sense of humor. Her playful nature came in handy when she became a grandma, a role she cherished. Being Grammy to Matilda and Nico was very special to her. Marcia was devoted to her family. She was her daughters’ best friend and will be remembered as the best Mom anyone could wish for.

A Celebration of Life will be held at John McMillan Presbyterian Church, 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park, PA 15102 on October 12, 2024 at 11:00 am. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care, McMurray, PA.