Obituary

Stitely, Esther Jean, 88, Johnstown, went to be with the Lord on January 21, 2026, to celebrate her 89^th birthday with Jesus. Born January 22, 1937, in Bovard, PA, to the late James and Esther (Mardis) Black. Preceded in death by son, E.J. Stitely Jr.; infant sister, Janet Ruth Black; and brothers, Gerald, James D., and Earl R. Black. Survived by loving husband of 64 years, Ed Stitely; children, Eric Stitely (Pansy); Cissi Vitalie (John); and Lizzie Knipple; daughter-in-law, Clarissa Stitely; grandchildren, Breana Hamara (David); Brenton Vitalie (Corrina); Heather Stitely; Garrett Gallo; Joshua Vitalie (Sasha); Dalton Knipple; Wade Knipple; Emmalie Vitalie-Moore (Zack); great grandchildren, Caden, Makenzie, Sienna, Baker, Nathlie, Fletcher, Eveyln, Finnick, and Flossie Anne; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews who Esther was more of a grandma to than an aunt. Esther was known as Grandma Essie or Aunt Essie to many, having helped raise many of her nieces and nephews and having numerous adopted grandchildren. Esther loved nothing more than children and Christ. She was very active within her church, Westmont Baptist. For many years Esther was proudly involved with AWANA Ministries. She loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren immensely and will be deeply missed. Family will receive friends Tuesday January 27^th from 3-7 p.m. at Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., 1521 Frankstown Rd., Johnstown, PA 15902, where a service will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Gary Cline, officiating. Committal to follow at Benshoff Hill Cemetery. Donations may be made in Esther’s memory to St. Jude’s.  Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com