Lois Harding Deely

Lois Harding Deely passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on October 11, 1934, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Lois lived a life defined by devotion to her family, enduring friendships, and countless cherished memories.

On June 5, 1958, Lois married the love of her life, John Richard Deely. Together they shared more than 50 wonderful years of marriage until John's passing in 2010. As the wife of a U.S. Army officer, Lois embraced a life of adventure and resilience, creating a warm and loving home wherever the Army led them. Over the years, they called ten states and Panama home before retiring in Luray, Virginia. They enjoyed fifteen wonderful years in Luray, where they enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren and embraced retirement. In her later years, Lois returned to her hometown of Philadelphia, where she spent her final years surrounded by family.

Family was the true center of Lois's life. As a devoted mother to six children, she took immense pride in watching her family grow over the years. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many friends who became like family.

Lois enjoyed an active and social life. She was an enthusiastic bridge player and a longtime member of a bowling league, where she formed many treasured friendships. She and John also shared a love of travel, exploring Ireland, Scotland, England, and Germany, as well as taking many memorable trips with family and dear friends. Lois had a gift for bringing people together and making every gathering feel special.

Lois is survived by her 6 children: Sean (Sally), Tim (Cathy), Colin (Kathy), Mary (Jeff), Megan (Frank), and Brendan (Carol); her siblings: John Harding, Pam Harding, Judy Tucker, and Cindi Gilliford; 18 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Richard Deely, her sister, Joyce Kelly, and her grandsons, Gabriel and Patrick Deely.

Lois will be deeply missed by her loving family and all who knew her. Her legacy is one of kindness, strength, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. Though she will be greatly missed, the love she shared and the memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited on Tuesday August 11th - Visitation from 10 to 11 AM with Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at St. John Vianney Church, 350 Conshohocken State Rd., Gladwyne, PA 19035.  Interment will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to Gabriel's Light, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance or to Alzheimer's Foundation.