Mary Ann Lepa, aged 78, of 1st Street, and life-long resident of Plains Township, passed away on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Allied Meade Street Hospice Facility in Wilkes-Barre. Born on September 26, 1945, to the late Walter and Mary Orischak, she grew up to become an esteemed educator and a pillar in her community.

A 1963 graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Mary Ann furthered her education at Wilkes College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education. Her passion for teaching led her to the Pleasant Valley School District and Plains Memorial High School, culminating in a distinguished 30-year tenure at Coughlin High School in the Wilkes-Barre Area School District. Her dedication to education was further exemplified through her memberships in the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), the National Education Association (NEA), and the Pennsylvania Association of Retired Employees (PASRE).

Mary Ann's commitment to service extended beyond the classroom. She was an active member of the Kingston Lions Club, serving as Vice President from 2016 to 2017 and President from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, she was involved in community welfare as the Vice President of the Plains Township Senior Citizens Club and Secretary of the Plains Township Crime Watch.

Her community involvement was vast and varied, including the Wilkes-Barre Preservation Society, Luzerne County Historical Society, Wyoming Commemorative Association, Sordoni Art Gallery, Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Employees, The Nature Conservancy, North Branch Land Trust, Plymouth Historical Society, Friends of the Osterhout Free Library, Northeast Sight Services, and Wilkes University. She was also a proud member of the Mount Vernon Ladies Association.

Mary Ann enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbors at the LANI, VFW, and the Polish American Veteran's Club. Despite her busy schedule, she always found time to spend with friends.

Preceded in death by her parents, her beloved son, Jason Lepa, and her sister, Donna Kordoski, Mary Ann leaves behind a legacy of love, education, and service. She is survived by her caring cousins, nieces, and nephews, who will forever cherish her memory.

A Requiem Funeral Service will be held in her honor on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at 10 AM at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 401 E Main St., Wilkes-Barre, with Reverend Innocent Neil officiating. Interment will follow at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cemetery, William Street, Plains.

Friends and family are warmly invited to a visitation for Mary Ann on Wednesday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service at the Church. Arrangements are under the guidance of Yeosock Funeral Home, 40 S Main St., Plains.

Mary Ann Lepa's life was a beautiful tapestry of teaching, service, and community involvement. Her spirit and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew her and felt the impact of her generous heart and unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others.