Lucy E. Smeal

In Loving Memory of Lucy E. (Ziembo) Smeal It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lucy E. (Ziembo) Smeal on March 24, 2025, in New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania. In a touching reflection of their enduring love, she passed away exactly two years to the day after her beloved husband, Edward A. Smeal, entered eternal rest on March 24, 2023. Their bond was unbreakable in life and continues in spirit. Born in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, Lucy was the daughter of William and Jessie (Lindberg) Ziembo. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a cherished grandmother, and a caring sister and friend. She will be remembered not only for her warmth and gentle nature, but also for her incredible mind and delightfully quirky spirit. Her memory was nothing short of remarkable—she could recite facts, dates, and family milestones with encyclopedic precision. Her love of learning never faded, and she found joy in sharing knowledge in the smallest of ways. Those who knew her well will smile remembering how she might quietly leave a quarter on your desk stamped with your birth year—a signature gesture full of thought and intention. Her sense of humor was dry and clever, often catching you off guard in the best way. A proud honors graduate of West Branch Area High School, Class of 1968, Lucy went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Lock Haven University in 1972. Her passion for learning and teaching shaped her life and inspired those around her. Early in her career, she worked as a full-time teacher at Bishop McDevitt High School and later served at the Naval Support Unit in Mechanicsburg. She went on to spend over two decades with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, dedicating 22 years to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, where her sharp mind and commitment to public service left a lasting impact. Lucy’s creativity and joy were expressed through her love of singing, playing piano, crocheting, and art. A true music lover, she adored Elvis and was a lifelong Beatles fanatic—often humming their tunes while working on a new crochet project or piece of art. She found beauty in everyday moments and especially cherished sitting outside on warm days, soaking in the sunshine and peace. Whether through her music, her handmade gifts, or the vibrant creations she shared, Lucy brightened the lives of everyone around her. She is survived by her children Nathan E. Smeal and his wife Rachel of Harrisburg, PA – grandchildren Alexander and Emily; Elliot Smeal and his wife Lori of Harrisburg, PA; Evelyn Isabella and her husband Louis of Brockway, PA – grandchildren Karyssa, Anthony, Amber, Nick, and Natane. She is also survived by her sister, Jessica Bisko (Ziembo) and husband David; and her brother, Frank Ziembo and wife Darlene. Lucy’s extended family of nieces, nephews, and dear friends will miss her deeply. Lucy was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; her twin daughters, Carolyn Marie and Clarissa Jean; her brother, William Ziembo, Jr.; and her parents, William and Jessie Ziembo. A Memorial Mass celebrating Lucy’s life will be held on Saturday, April 5th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Severn Catholic Church in Drifting, PA. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service, from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. Internment will take place at the St. Severn Cemetery where Lucy will be laid to rest with her late husband, Edward. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made in Lucy’s honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Though Lucy may be gone from our sight, her presence is woven into the fabric of our lives—through the music she played, the art she created, the wisdom she shared, and the little reminders of her love she so often left behind. Whether it was a handwritten note, a well-timed joke, or a quarter with your birth year on it, Lucy had a way of making every person feel seen. She taught us to find joy in simple things, to never stop learning, and to lead with quiet strength. Her legacy will live on in the stories we tell, the songs we hear, and the love we carry forward.

Lucy E. Smeal

June 14, 1950 - March 24, 2025