Maryann E. Hespe died peacefully at the age of 82 on August 22, 2023 with her family by her side.

She was a life-long Philadelphia-area resident having been born and raised in West Philadelphia where she graduated from West Catholic High School (while also dancing on the American Bandstand show) and attended Misericordia Nursing School before embarking on her vocation as a nurse.

Shortly after graduating Misericordia she met the love of her life and husband of almost 60 years, William James Hespe, Sr. (Billy). Their early romance, like so many young loves, was crystalized by the magic mix of clubbing (Latin Casino), dancing (the Twist) and the beach (Ocean City). Then married in 1965, they raised three children (William Jr, Julie and Christian) and lived for over 50 years in Merion, PA.

After raising her children, Maryann returned to nursing at St. Edmond's Home for Children in Rosemont, PA, where she did God's work caring for children with severe disabilities.

Later in life she became the quintessential Grandmom to Marshall and Meredith - two other loves of her life and was able to return to the surf and sand on family holidays and also developed a love of Vermont's Green Mountains.

Maryann's devotion to her husband, her Catholic faith and children mark the legacy of her long life.

Relatives and friends are invited on Tuesday August 29th, Visitation at 9 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Colman Church, Lancaster Ave. & Argyle Rd., Ardmore, PA.  Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in West Conshohocken.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Little Sisters of the Poor , 5300 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19143.