Melanie E. Beckner

BECKNER---Melanie E., 65, Richland, went to be with the Lord on March 6, 2023 at Windber Hospice, after a very brief illness. Born May 5, 1957, in Tarentum, daughter of Neuland E. and Lillian T. (Phillips) Weckerly. Preceded in death by parents and brother, Thomas E. Weckerly. Survived by husband of 43 years, William J. Beckner whom she married June 2, 1979; son, Heath (Rebekah Tiffany) Beckner, Richland; and grandchildren, Liam T. and Claire T. Beckner. Sister of Judith E. Bushelman, Mesa, AZ. Also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Melanie graduated from Richland High School in 1975. She started her career in the grocery business working for Acme Markets, where she met her then future husband William. She worked for several local grocery chains and became a bakery/deli specialist for Bi-Lo Foods. For the last 16 years, Melanie has been co-owner of Em’s Original Sub Shoppe and recently the co-owner of Beckner Meadows and Beckner Properties. Melanie made sure that the best quality products were available to her customers. One of Melanie’s joys was teaching people how to decorate cakes at Bi-Lo and most recently at the Meadows. She enjoyed teaching her employees and watching them grow. Member of Emmanuel Church where she was a member of the choir and was honored when she was recently appointed a deaconess. Member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Trinity Chapter #138. Melanie was also a member of the Cloud of Grace Praise Band. Melanie loved her home which included her poodles, Brandi, Presley and Prescilla, her flowers and water garden. She enjoyed decorating her home for the holidays. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and she loved shopping for Claire’s dresses and Liam’s sporting gear. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and from Noon to 4  and 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where an Order of the Eastern Star service will be held. Visitation will he held again from 9 a.m. until time of Funeral Service at 11 a.m. Friday at Emmanuel Church, 425 Luther Road, Richland with Pastor John Lawley officiating. Inurnment at Richland Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Cremation by Laurel Highlands Crematory at Harris Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Emmanuel Church, 425 Luther Road, Johnstown, PA 15904, Windber Hospice, 600 Somerset Ave., Windber, PA 15963 or to the American Cancer Society at www.donate.cancer.org in memory of Melanie E. Beckner. Online condolences may posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.