Mary Ella Lewis

1942 - 2026

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Mary Ella Lewis, affectionately known as Ella, was born on November 10, 1942, to the late Floyd and
Martha Dinkins. She was raised in North Hills, Pennsylvania, the second of seven children. Her parents
instilled strong family values, and the siblings remained close throughout their lives. As the oldest
daughter, Ella often helped care for her younger siblings. While they adored their big sis, they also
enjoyed playing pranks on her during her babysitting adventures. She shared a special bond with her
sisters, affectionately known as the “Sister Circle,” and they cherished weekly Friday night dinners and
tea filled with laughter, conversation, and love.
Ella gave her life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at Antioch Baptist Church by Reverend
Joseph Jackson. She was a proud graduate of Upper Dublin High School and took great pride in being a
dedicated student.
Ella met her beloved husband, Andy, at her friend’s wedding where he was managing the band. Ella
immediately caught his eye. They went on a date that very night, and their love story continued for sixty-
two beautiful years of marriage. From this union, they were blessed with three children: Andrew,
Kenneth, and Lorita. For many years, she supported her husband’s entrepreneurial spirit and they shared
great experiences together.
A selfless woman, Ella found great joy in serving the Lord and others. For almost 60 years, she was a
faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where she served in many ministries. She was a devoted
Deaconess, a member of the Sanctuary (Mass) Choir, and helped lead efforts to host homeless families
through the Interfaith Housing Alliance. She also coordinated ministry services at Silverstream Nursing
Home. Ella was known as a loving, joyful woman whose quiet spirit, warm smile, and caring heart
touched many lives. Many of us knew her for her signature giggle.
Ella loved hosting family dinners for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who eagerly
anticipated her cooking—especially her macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, sweet potatoes and her super
sweet lemonades and teas. Hosting brought her immense joy, and she often stayed busy making sure
everyone else was taken care of before sitting down herself, usually needing to be reminded by her
children to finally join the meal.
Ella dedicated more than twenty years of service as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) at Normandy Farms,
where she compassionately cared for others. In addition to her work in healthcare, Ella also ran a home
daycare, opening her home and heart to many children over the years. Alongside her husband Andy, she
helped establish the Ellaganza Lounge, a restaurant and bar known for its lively atmosphere and local
entertainment featuring local bands, including performances by Sister Sledge.
Though quiet by nature, Ella possessed great strength and unwavering commitment. She faithfully served
in whatever capacity her health allowed. Although she faced several health challenges, she never
complained. Her greatest joys in life were connected to her family and her church. Ella was a woman who
was content and it was evident in the way she lived.
On the evening of March 7, 2026, Ella was peacefully called home to be with her Lord and Savior. She
was preceded in death by her parents; Floyd and Martha Dinkins, her brothers, James and Floyd; and her
sisters, Martha Anne and Delores.
She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband of sixty-two years, Andrew; her children Andrew
(Michal), Kenneth (Michelle), and Lorita (Nicolas); her grandchildren Kendra, Kenneth (Brijae), Andrew,

Tyreece, Kailyn, Olivia, Dylan, Julian, Ayanna, and Serena; and her great-grandchildren Dion, Drayden,
Joshua, Kyrie, Violet, Jasper, Dru, Serenity, and Malaki.
She is also survived by her sister Joyce; her brother Melvin (Peggy); her sisters-in-law Barbara, Marva
and Cynthia; brothers-in-law Robert Sr. (Lillian) and Keith; her beloved godchildren Mari (Samuel),
Maurice (Tierra), and Melvin Jr.; and a host of nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart,
cousins, church family and friends.
Ella’s life was a beautiful testament to faith, service, and love. May her legacy live on in the hearts of all
who knew and loved her.
Lovingly Submitted,
The Family