Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home

Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home Inc. provides the highest-quality funeral service to Chambersburg, PA.

"A Family Serving Families" has been our slogan for over 80 years, and it represents an approach that we're proud of. From day to day, we embrace the challenges of operating as an independent funeral home, maintaining a family-oriented approach to serving our community in a day when corporate buy-outs, silent partners, and outside investors are attempting to infiltrate this unique and dynamic indu

stry. Our diverse staff not only includes five licensed funeral directors, but also a vast number of others, people who are your neighbors and friends. ........Because we know, without question, that a friendly, familiar face is an invaluable comfort to those in difficult times. While offering traditional and non-traditional services, advance planning, and on-site cremation services, we strive to provide a delicate balance of compassion and professionalism while minimizing the difficulty of a loss. We measure our performance by the sincerity in the thank you's we receive, not the bottom line in a quarterly stock report, which may be the reason we've grown to become Chambersburg's preferred funeral home.

Diane J. RichardsonA full obituary will be posted in the near future.
06/03/2026

Diane J. Richardson

A full obituary will be posted in the near future.

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Eileen T. FlanaganPatricia Eileen Tarr Flanagan, 91, of Chambersburg, PA, died at home in the presence of her family, on...
05/31/2026

Eileen T. Flanagan

Patricia Eileen Tarr Flanagan, 91, of Chambersburg, PA, died at home in the presence of her family, on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Eileen was born April 16, 1935 in Washington, PA, to Paul Ellsworth Tarr and Clarice Ridings Tarr.

She is survived by one brother, Richard Gary Tarr (Karen) of Chambersburg; one daughter, Kelly Ann Moreno; three sons, Wayne Eric Flanagan, Paul Roland Flanagan and Douglas Andrew Flanagan; five granddaughters, Jennifer Lyne Flanagan, Patricia Marie "Tricia" Flanagan Edmisten, Laura Eileen Flanagan McGee (Daniel), Wendy Leigh Flanagan Gambino (Lawrence), and Emily Ann Flanagan Vandiver (Jason); great-granddaughters Olivia, Melina, Lila and Abigail; great-grandsons Isaiah, Benjamin and Elisha; niece Stacy Tarr Saylor and her mother Connie; and great-nephew Stefan Gewiss.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one beloved great-grandson, Eric Blake Flanagan.

Eileen graduated from Washington High School in Washington, PA.

Prior to her retirement at age 70, she was a bank officer with First American Bank based in Bowie, MD, and Bank Annapolis. She was also a reserve officer with the Anne Arundel County Police.

Eileen was an avid reader, enjoyed cooking for her family, and watching Baltimore Orioles baseball games. She loved her rescue cats, pink roses, Bobby Vinton music, and Patrick Swayze movies.

She was an active member of Grace Brethren Church in Chambersburg. She also volunteered her time with Bible Adventures, Release Time and Joy-El.

Special gratitude goes to Eileen's devoted friend Becky Galmiche, who stayed by her side in her last days; and to granddaughter Tricia and niece Stacy for their loving care. Many thanks go to Pastor Daryl and Wendy Wenger, Heartland

Hospice, and caregiver Yolanda for their guidance and assistance.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to any humane society/animal rescue/shelter; Grove Family Library in Chambersburg; or Grace Brethren Church.

A Celebration of Life to be held at Grace Brethren Church will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Online condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Mary S. HimmelfarbMary S. Himmelfarb, 87, of Fayetteville, PA, passed away unexpectedly on May 26, 2026, at Chambersburg...
05/28/2026

Mary S. Himmelfarb

Mary S. Himmelfarb, 87, of Fayetteville, PA, passed away unexpectedly on May 26, 2026, at Chambersburg Hospital. Born April 29, 1939, in Washington, D.C., Mary was the daughter of the late Gardner and Teresa (O’Beirne) Scott. A proud graduate of Immaculate Conception Academy High School, Class of 1957, she went on to dedicate many years of service to the federal government, working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister whose life was centered around her family. She shared 69 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Sheldon Himmelfarb, and together they built a loving home filled with care, laughter, and enduring commitment.

She is lovingly remembered and survived by her husband, Sheldon, of Fayetteville, PA; her children, Margaret H. Torbik (Matthew) of Frederick, MD, Carolyn A. Himmelfarb of Bethesda, MD, and Steven P. Himmelfarb (Laura) of McLean, VA; and her cherished grandchildren, Patrick Torbik of Silverthorne, CO, and Emma E. Torbik of Frederick, MD. Mary is also survived by her sister, Catherine Cissel (Edwin) of Vienna, VA, and her sister-in-law, Suzette Scott.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her brother, Phillip Scott. Mary will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

In accordance with Mary’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Services and interment will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Online condolences and memories may be shared at http://www.geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Nancy L. ShankNancy L. Shank, 86, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at the Chambersburg Hospita...
05/27/2026

Nancy L. Shank

Nancy L. Shank, 86, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at the Chambersburg Hospital. Born October 14, 1939, in Berkeley Springs, WV; she was a daughter of the late Clarence and Hattie T. Michael Miller. Her beloved husband, Lauren J. Shank, Sr., preceded her in death on July 4, 2024.

Nancy was employed as a seamstress at the former Stanley Co., in Chambersburg and later at Giant Food Store in the prepared food department until her retirement. She also worked at Big Lots and Magnolias of Chambersburg. Nancy enjoyed sewing, watching NASCAR, and going to races with her husband. She loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Bricker (husband Jeffrey) of Chambersburg; two grandchildren, Chad Shank (wife Sara) of Springfield, and Amanda Shank of Chambersburg; two great grandsons, Xavier and Isaac; and three siblings, Catherine Marshall (husband Ronald), Dennis Miller, and Sheila Rigney (husband John) of FL. Aside from her parents and husband, Nancy was preceded in death by her son, Lauren J. Shank, Jr, and her brother Phillip Miller.

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 PM on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Lincoln Cemetery, Chambersburg, PA. Rev. Dr. A. Robert Cook will officiate. Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Willie V. LeeWillie V. Lee, 78, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away suddenly on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Spring Creek Nursi...
05/22/2026

Willie V. Lee

Willie V. Lee, 78, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away suddenly on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Spring Creek Nursing Home in Harrisburg, PA.

Born January 19, 1948, in Newport News, VA, he was the beloved son of the late John and Queen Esther (Stringfield) Lee.

Willie pursued his education at Boston University before earning his bachelor’s degree from Temple University. He went on to dedicate many years of service as an Executive Chef for Westminster/Canterbury, where his skill and passion for cooking were widely admired. Known especially for his signature jerk chicken, Willie shared his culinary talents generously—serving as a chef for AARP events, Masonic lodges, and numerous gatherings at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Chambersburg, PA, where he was a devoted member for many years.

Willie is survived by his nieces, Jessica Pierce, Dorothy Famotibe, Jacqueline Toney, and Valerie Wright; his nephews, John Bowman and Riakos Adams; his great-niece, Ivy Bowman; his great-nephews, Jeremiah and Jeyden; his cousins, Hazel and Janet Stringfield; and a host of other loving relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, John M. Lee, Delsie Adams, and Edith Bowman.

Willie will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steady presence, and the kindness he extended so freely to others. His love for family, faith, and community touched many lives and will continue to be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.

In accordance with Willie’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the 11:00 AM funeral service, Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Central Presbyterian Church, 40 Lincoln Way W., Chambersburg, PA 17201. Inurnment will be private.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Charlotte Mae HoutmanCharlotte Mae Houtman, 95 &1/2 of Chambersburg, PA has left her earthly home to be with her Heavenl...
05/22/2026

Charlotte Mae Houtman

Charlotte Mae Houtman, 95 &1/2 of Chambersburg, PA has left her earthly home to be with her Heavenly Father on this day of May 20th, 2026. Charlotte was born on Saturday October 11, 1930, in Newark, NJ to her parents Walter E. and Margerie J. (Hamilton) Penrose.

She grew up in Irvington, NJ from 1941-1945 then moved to Union Beach, NJ. Charlotte attended Keyport High School, class of 1949. She left high school in her sophomore year to help out at home. Charlotte worked for Prudential Insurance Company in Newark, NJ, then A&P Company in Adelphia, NJ for many years. Charlotte went back to school to get her GED and pursued a career as an LPN Nurse at the age of 50 years old. She worked in Freehold Hospital and then went to work in private practice for Dr. Schamenski of Old Bridge, NJ. Charlotte met and married her daughter’s father-in-law Richard Houtman and their love story began. They were married for 44 years. They retired to North Fort Myers, FL in January 1991. Charlotte was involved with many organizations in Del Tura Country Club where they lived for 23 years. Charlotte was vice president of the Middlesex County LPN Association from 1981-1982. She also was state secretary for the NYC Transit Retirees of Florida from 2000-2001. In 2014 they moved to Shippensburg, PA to be close to family. Charlotte enjoyed reading, dancing, singing, and loved all kinds of movies.

Charlotte was predeceased by her parents and husband Richard Houtman.

Charlotte is survived by 2 children JoAnn (Rupy) Houtman with whom she lived with in Chambersburg, PA; her son Steven J. Rupy (Marti) of Palmyra, PA; her step son David Houtman (Janice) of Milltown, NJ; her grandchildren Kelly Houtman (partner Rob Mendez) of Holmdel, NJ, Tracy Kelly (Michael) of Chambersburg, PA; Justin Rupy (fiancé Emily Dentler) of Mechanicsburg, PA; Jordan Rupy (Maggie) of Philadelphia, PA; 3 great grandchildren Kylah Kelly (partner Brady Bumbaugh) of Chambersburg, PA; Michael Kelly of Boca Raton, FL; Madison Kelly of Chambersburg, PA; and 1 great-great grandson to be born in May Connor Bumbaugh; 2 sisters Elaine Eastmond of Whiting, NJ and Audrey Voorhees of Key Port, NJ; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lots of friends.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Chapel of the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202 with Deacon Richard Ramsey officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service on Tuesday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will take place on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 12:30 PM at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Road, Annville, PA 17003 for all who would like to attend.

Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com

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Samuel M. Hess IISamuel M. “Sam” Hess II, 45, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Thursday morning, May 21, 2026, at Mer...
05/21/2026

Samuel M. Hess II

Samuel M. “Sam” Hess II, 45, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Thursday morning, May 21, 2026, at Mercy House of Chambersburg. Born July 12, 1980, in New Kensington, PA, he was a son of Samuel M. and Sandra “Sandy” Waltenbaugh Hess.

Sam was a graduate of Leechburg Area Senior High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Slippery Rock University and later his master’s degree from Shippensburg University. Sam was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Chambersburg, the Knights of Columbus Council 1426, and served as president of the Knights of Columbus Home Association. He was also a member of the Amvets Post 224, VFW Post 1599, the Chambersburg Rod and Gun Club, and the Chambersburg Turtle Head Rugby Club. Sam was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates fan and a Penn State Football fan. He enjoyed cooking, grilling, gardening, playing PlayStation, golfing and hunting at his family hunting camp. He also enjoyed kayaking in the ADK and family vacations at the beach.

He was well known for his loud voice and always had the best smile, even while battling cancer for four years. As a special education teacher, he was a mentor and counselor to many. He had the opportunity to reach more people through coaching football for the Faust Tigers and the Chambersburg Trojans for 18 years. Sam will be fondly remembered for his kind and gentle nature and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Sam is survived by his loving wife of 18 years and caregiver for the past few years, Maegen M. Bosin Hess, whom he married on July 7, 2007; his brother, Sean Hess (wife Claire) of Leechburg, PA; father-in-law Martin (wife Janet) Bosin; sister-in-law, Kelly Cox (husband Joseph) of Altoona, PA; five nephews, Braden, Braxton and Beckett Hess and Caleb (Lauren) and Ian Cox; and four godchildren, Brady, Bryce, Sophia, and Daniella Stumbaugh.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 26, 2025, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 320 Philadelphia Avenue, Chambersburg, PA 17201. The Rev. Fr. Allan Wolfe will serve as celebrant. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 PM on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, 5051 Letterkenny Road West, Chambersburg, PA 17201, or to The Knights of Columbus Council 1426, 336 E. Garfield Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201. The family would like to extend a thank you to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Penn State Cancer Institute, and the Dialysis Care Center Chambersburg for their compassion and the care Sam received. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Lunch & Learn - Tues., May 26th @ 11:30 a.m.Dinner & Discussion - Tues., May 26th @ 4:30 p.m.Please join us! Kindly RSVP...
05/19/2026

Lunch & Learn - Tues., May 26th @ 11:30 a.m.
Dinner & Discussion - Tues., May 26th @ 4:30 p.m.

Please join us! Kindly RSVP by calling (717) 264-6416. Spaces are limited and filling up! Hope to see you there. 🙂

Carl E. CowanCarl E. Cowan, 88, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his home. Born January 12, ...
05/18/2026

Carl E. Cowan

Carl E. Cowan, 88, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his home. Born January 12, 1938, in Hawstone, PA, he was a son of the late Russell and Myrtle Kelly Cowan.

A US Air Force veteran, Carl served honorably from 1955-1959. He was employed as a Telecommunications Operator at Letterkenny Army Depot until his retirement. During his time in government service, Carl was awarded numerous commendations for his service and attended many courses to further himself in his career. He enjoyed golfing and working on electronics including computers and televisions.

Carl is survived by his wife of 59 years, Florence J. Stitely Cowan, whom he married on March 4, 1967; two sons, Robert Parks of Neelyton, and John Parks of Chambersburg; six grandchildren, Robert Parks, Jr., Brandon Parks, Matthew Parks, John Parks, Jr., Bruce Lee Parks, and Taza Parks; several great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Charlotte Showalter of Fayetteville, and Sharon McGee (Garnet Brookens) of Chambersburg. Aside from his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Autumn Fife; and his brother, Donald Cowan.

A memorial service to honor Carl’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 22, 2026, in the chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Rev. Brent Stouffer will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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Carolyn A. BranchiniCarolyn (Andros) Branchini, 85, of Fayetteville, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026,...
05/16/2026

Carolyn A. Branchini

Carolyn (Andros) Branchini, 85, of Fayetteville, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026, at The Woods at Cedar Run in Camp Hill, PA.

Born March 15, 1941, in New Haven, CT, she was the daughter of the late Philip Francis and Genevieve Emma (Michahelles) Andros.

Carolyn was a graduate of East Haven High School and continued her education at the University of New Haven. She went on to dedicate many years as an executive secretary, working for the Southern New England Telephone Company, Yale University and Bristol-Myers Squibb.. In every role, she was known for her quiet dedication, strong work ethic, and the care she put into even the smallest details.

Those who knew Carolyn will remember her for the simple, meaningful joys she embraced throughout her life. She found peace tending to her garden, creativity in sewing and crocheting, and beauty in the delicate art of calligraphy. She enjoyed spending time with her friends at the Penn National Card Club and Red Hat Society. Carolyn enjoyed travel to places such as Italy and Mexico, as well as camping, but above all else, her greatest happiness came from the time she spent with her family. Whether gathered around the table or sharing quiet moments together, those times meant the most to her. She remained a faithful Catholic her entire life and truly enjoyed church and the weekly Bible study group that she attended with her husband. Her family knows she has been welcomed into the gates of heaven.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years, Vincent J. Branchini, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, devotion, and partnership; her two loving daughters, Marissa Bakermans of Carlisle, PA, and Diana Branchini of Branford, CT; her cherished grandchildren, Heather and Darren Bakermans, who brought her immense pride and joy; and her brother, Philip Andros (Linda) of Clinton, CT. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Jean Andros.

Though she will be deeply missed, Carolyn’s gentle spirit, steady presence, and the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. In accordance with Carolyn’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at St. Ignatius of Loyola Church, 1095 Church Road, Orrtanna, PA 17353, Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, an organization which was near and dear to her heart.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.

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333 Falling Spring Road
Chambersburg, PA
17202

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