Bessie Mae Collier Newport

Bessie Mae Collier Newport

Bessie Mae Collier Newport, loving mother and Nana,age 91, of Erie, died Saturday, July 4, 2009. She was born May 5, 1918 in Erie, a daughter of the late Thomas and Clara Bell Elliot Collier. She lived in Erie her entire life. Besides spending time with her family, Bessie's many interests included cooking, knitting, crocheting, archery, and hunting.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Newport and three brothers, Chester and Thomas Collier, and Richard Sawdey.

She is survived by her son, Jack L. Newport and his wife Priscilla of Harborcreek; one sister, Lucille Peebles of San Francisco, CA, four grandchildren, Shawn (Anne) Newport, Jack Newport, Jacquelynne Newport all of Erie and Kelly (John) Watrobsky of Pittsburgh, and 5 great-grandchildren.

No calling hours will be observed. A private service will be held at the family's convenience. Burial will be in Laurel Hill Cemetery . Memorials may be made to the John Kanzius Cancer Research Fund, Palace Business Center , 915 State St. , Erie , PA 16501 . The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street , is handling arrangements.