Mary Jean Frey

 Mary Jean Frey, 100, of Manheim, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Pleasant View Communities, Manheim. She was born in Lancaster on January 19, 1925, the daughter of the late Clarence M. and Mary Fink Graham. She was the loving wife of the late Norman L. Frey for 47 years, until his death in 1993. 

Mary Jean graduated from Manheim Central High School in 1941, then worked at Noggle’s Garment Factory, Manheim. Later, she served Jacob H. Ruhl Inc., Manheim, for 25 years until her retirement in 1990. 

Mary Jean was the loving mother of three daughters: Dr. Kathleen G. Frey, New Hope; Susan, wife of Dalton Jones, Lancaster, and Debra G. Frey, Manheim. Her two grandchildren are: Daniel Stadden, Northampton and Emily, wife of Timothy Stier, Lancaster. Her three great-grandchildren are Benjamin and Jude Stier, and Luke Stadden. Mary Jean is survived by her sister-in-law Mabel Graham, with whom she enjoyed a close friendship. She was preceded in death by two brothers: Melvin, Lancaster, and Clarence F. “Mike” Graham, Manheim.

Mary Jean was a long-time member of Salem United Methodist Church, Manheim, where she attended faithfully until recently. 

Mary Jean was an accomplished homemaker, always encouraging her family, which was of great importance to her. Mary Jean was close to her mother, a long-time widow, who was included in many family events and trips. 

Mary Jean and Norm enjoyed camping, often in State Parks, from the 1960s until his death. They were members of the Garden Spot Travel Trailer Club, Lancaster. 

She was a charter member of the Manheim Lioness Club and a member of the Manheim Historical Society.

Mary Jean was an avid reader of newspapers and books. She loved to learn and she loved to laugh. She also loved crossword puzzles, playing cards and games. She was hard to beat at anything, especially Scrabble. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mary Jean’s Funeral Service at Salem United Methodist Church, 140 North Penn Street, Manheim on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the service. Interment in Manheim Fairview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Mary Jean’s memory to Salem Family Ministry, 140 North Penn Street, Manheim, PA 17545.