Mary McKee Brandt (age 90) passed peacefully to her eternal home on January 8, 2024, at Cumberland Crossings. She was born January 22, 1933, in Newville, PA, the daughter of the late Harry Hassinger and Mary E. Hassinger. She was preceded in death by Franklin Brandt, her husband of 67 years and her baby sister, Helen McKee Hassinger.

    Mary was a graduate of Newville High School. She held a bachelor’s degree in early education from Penn State University and a master’s degree from Millersville University with a reading specialist certification. She was a retired elementary teacher and reading specialist for the Carlisle Area School District, where she mentored many young children while teaching them to read.

    Mary was a longtime member of Second Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon, helped as a church host for Community CARES and was involved in various groups over the years. She was a member of the Carlisle AAUW and a volunteer at the Salvation Army and Project Share, where she could often be found reading to the children.

    Mary is survived by two children, William (wife Tracy) Brandt of Harrisburg, PA, and Ann Carney of Carlisle, PA. She had four grandchildren Erica Brandt, Meaghan Carney, Ryan Carney, and Ben Carney.

    Mary was an avid Penn State football and wrestling fan and enjoyed attending games and matches for many years. She is best remembered by her grandchildren for her strong commitment to family attending their many concerts, sporting events and other activities, planning family gatherings, and most notably, curling up on a chair with them to read their favorite stories.

    Final arrangements are being handled by Egger Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 17 at 11:30 am at Second Presbyterian Church, with the Reverend Dr. Jeff Gibelius presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Second Presbyterian Church, 515 Garland Drive, Carlisle, PA 17013.