Mary Bella DeForest, 84, of State College, died Monday, November 17, 2008, at the Hearthside Nursing and Rehabilitation Centre in State College, PA
She was born November 12, 1924 in Syracuse, NY, a daughter of the late Joseph and Bella Sinesi Brillo.
She married Earl J. DeForest August 27, 1949, who preceded her in death May 19, 1994.
Mary graduated from Onondaga Central High School, and while living in New York worked as a baker.
Mrs. DeForest was associated with Park Forest Baptist Church while living in the State College area. She enjoyed gardening and mowing the lawn, taking care of her three cats and attending Special Olympics events with her daughter's family. A lover of music, she especially enjoyed listening to music performed by "Grace Between Us" a musical duet her son-in-law Mark and a friend Janine have formed.
She is survived by a daughter BellaMarie Bregar and her husband Mark of Linden Hall, PA; a son Joseph W. DeForest of Pineville NC; a sister, Georgia Ott and her husband Robert of LeRoy, NY; a brother, Joseph Brillo and former sister in law and close friend Dolores Brillo all of Skaneateles, NY; two grandchildren Bellamarie Ludwig and her husband Dan of Warriors Mark, and Justin Bregar of State College; three great grandchildren, Isabella, Owen and Luke Ludwig; and several neices and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister Caroline Conners.
Private memorial services will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Special Olympics, 2610-B Clyde Ave., State College, PA 16801
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com