Obituaries
Margaret Elizabeth Letteer, 84
February 08, 2025
It is with profound sadness yet unwavering hope in the promise of eternal life that we announce the passing of Margaret Elizabeth Letteer, a devoted Catholic, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and Faithful Servant of God. She peacefully went to sleep in the Lord on Saturday, February 08, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family. She was born on July 20, 1940, in Williamsport, PA, to Frederick and Blanche Staib.
It was fitting that she passed away at Lancaster General Hospital, where she had previously spent many years bringing comfort to others in their moments of need. She then spent many years still in the medical field working at RGAL. It is also where her daughter would later graduate from nursing school. In this sacred space where she once volunteered so faithfully, that after a tragic fall on ice, she received care from an incredible staff in the Emergency Department and Neuro Trauma ICU as she transitioned into eternal life with Christ.
Margaret was a woman with a quiet humor and of deep faith, boundless love, and tireless service. Her life was a testament to her trust in God’s providence and commitment to living out the Gospel through humility, prayer, and charity. She was a cherished wife, mother, and grandmother who nurtured her family with care and wisdom and a spiritual guide who inspired all those who knew her to grow closer to Christ.
As a Dame of Obedience in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Margaret embraced the charism of the defense of the faith and service to the poor. She lived this mission with joy and dedication, participating in works that brought healing and hope to those in need. Her membership in the Subpriory of Our Lady of Lourdes deepened her spiritual life, connecting her to Mary’s message of healing, conversion, and trust in God’s mercy. Throughout her life, Margaret embodied Christ’s call to serve “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). Whether supporting charitable initiatives or offering quiet acts of kindness, she brought Christ’s love to everyone she encountered.
Margaret had a special devotion to Our Lady, especially under the title Our Lady of Lourdes, Lourdes, France. She drew inspiration from Mary’s maternal care and unwavering trust in God’s plan. Her connection to Our Lady shaped every aspect of her life. As part of the Subpriory dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, she found strength in Mary’s example as both a mother and servant of God. In moments of trial or sorrow, she turned to Mary for guidance and trusted that God’s grace would sustain her. Mary’s message at Lourdes emphasizes healing through faith in God’s mercy—a message that resonated deeply with Margaret. We take comfort in knowing she has received the ultimate healing: eternal life with Christ. We take solace in knowing that Margaret has been welcomed into heaven by Our Blessed Mother and now rests in the loving arms of Christ.
Margaret leaves behind a legacy rooted in love—a love that reflected both her devotion to God and her care for others. Her life was marked by countless acts of generosity and kindness that touched everyone who knew her. Shortly after her son’s ordination, Margaret personally made over 150 vestments for the bishop, priests, and deacons of the Diocese of Harrisburg. She loved the clergy of the Diocese and took great pride in helping the fraternity of her son.
Her life’s devotion inspires us all to embrace lives dedicated to faith, service, and charity. She showed us that holiness is attainable when we surrender our will to God and seek His guidance in all things.
Margaret was a devoted Charter Member of Saint John Neumann Catholic Church, deeply engaged in various parish activities. As an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, she played a vital role in distributing the Eucharist to fellow parishioners. Her dedication even extended to community events, particularly the Church Bazaar, where she found joy in working alongside other women to create beautiful floral arrangements and wreaths from corks.
Margaret is survived by her husband of 62 years, Charles Letteer, her children, Mary-Margaret Letteer and Michael Letteer, and a grandson, Damien Graybill, two brothers, Msgr. Donald Staib (Diocese of Raleigh, NC), and James Staib, and many nephews and nieces. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Frederick and Blanche Staib, a brother Richard Staib, and a sister Jean Fitzpatrick.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by her son, Fr. Michael Letteer; and co-celebrated by her brother, Msgr. Donald Staib. Her family and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her presence will gather on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 East Delp Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM for Visitation. The Mass will begin at 11:30 AM, where we will commend Margaret’s soul into God’s loving care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: The Lourdes Medical Office; Attn: Mr. Wayne Ruth; 10815 Beaver Dame Road-Suite D; Cockeysville MD, 21030. Note: This is a 501C3 charity and assists sick pilgrims of all faiths to make a pilgrimage to Lourdes, a cause close to her heart.
Watch the tribute videoLeave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
February 15, 2025
To the Letteer Family, I was so sad to hear of Margaret’s passing. I enjoyed spending time with her when I did her hair. We shared alot of family stories. She was always so happy and funny. My prayers are with her family. Sincerely, Annette Roda
February 15, 2025
Father Letteer, we are so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. May she rest in peace. Our condolences for your loss.
Jim and Rita
February 14, 2025
So sorry to hear of Margaret’s tragic passing. She was a beloved member of our RGAL family for many years – always smiling and always willing to help in any capacity. We were blessed to be able to work with her on a daily basis.
Ray Foley
February 13, 2025
I am truley saddened to hear of Margaret’s passing. She was a wonderful person and was always filled with joy. Her faith and love to her family was always on display. She will be missed! Please be assured of our prayers for Margaret, Charlie, Fr. Michael, and the rest of her family.
-Bret Mitchell
February 13, 2025
The Greenstein family sends condolences and prayers for peace in all hearts that are experiencing great loss of a great woman.
Sincerely,
Kitty Greenstein
(Kari’s in-laws)
February 12, 2025
When I met Charlie it was when New Orleans was recovering from Hurricane Katrina. What a blessing it was to later come visit and speak at a Knights of Malta event and spend time with Margaret touring the city. I have photos of our visit to a Lego exhibit and at the market where I was introduced to Whoopie Pies. I was treated to a bouquet of hand-made wooden flowers that I still cherish to this day as they are displayed in my home. My friendship with Fr. Michael and Charlie continues to grow all these years later. That is the power of God’s love and His commitment to putting people in places where they need to be at the right time. I extend my deepest condolences to your families.
Garmanne “Angel #2” Mack
February 12, 2025
I’m shocked and heartbroken with this news. I was her neighbor across the street for many years. We had coffees every week. I enjoyed her sense of humor and our conversations. Loved our time spent together. We laughed about our times spent working on our yards She would ask me to help her rearrange her “, things,,”She had a lot of things. She was a lot of fun. I can’t believe she’s now gone. So sorry for your loss
Donna S Brubaker
February 12, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Michael and family. We were blessed to have met and spend a little time with Margaret these last few years.
Love, Amy and Ben Lefenfeld
February 12, 2025
My prayers are with you Michael at this sad time. Your mom was such a quiet pleasant person to work with we had good times. I know she’s happy where she is now in heaven.
Sue Huegel
February 12, 2025
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Margaret, I served many masses with Margaret as a Eucharistic minister at our church. I will pray for her soul as well as your family. Donna Loffredo Hoover
February 12, 2025
Words cannot describe how deeply I will miss Margaret. (“Mom” Letteer.) Being one of Michael’s close friends, I immediately saw how loving and supportive “Mom Letteer” became in my life. Both sets of my grandmothers passed away in my younger years, I knew I could rely on Mom Letteer to call me especially during a road trip from Spring Grove, New Oxford, York, New Cumberland, or Bucknell, all previous assignments her son had been stationed as I drove back to Lancaster. With endless discussions from her current cook book she was working on, or, what was on the news, to “what did you think about Mikey’s homily this week”, and stories about our beloved pups… the conversation would go on for the entire ride home. The calls turned into a weekly check-up call on “how is it going? how’s your job, how’s your family.”
Gifting her with my musical talents, she often spoke about hymns and music she cherished throughout her years from childhood to now and asked questions and even gave some “suggestions” for me to learn to play as well… I could go on but it would be as long as this beautiful obituary. IN SUMMARY,
She will truly be missed and I know she is certainly dancing alongside her family and friends in heaven. Until we meet again! Rest In Peace.
-Bryan
February 11, 2025
My deepest symptoms to the Letteer Family. Thoughts & Prayers during this difficult time.
Sharon Schlemm
February 11, 2025
Condolences on the passing of this dear, generous and holy woman. I’ve met Margaret several times at the lenten dinners at Sacred Heart and her goodness and kindness radiated from her! I know she will be missed by her family, but the knowledge that she has found eternal joy and happiness will hopefully ease some of the pain!
Father Michael Letteer, you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers!
Nancy Klinedinst
February 11, 2025
Please accept my sincere condolences
Tom Graybill
February 11, 2025
A dear woman, whose devotion to Mary and the Order of Malta and Subpriory of Our Lady of Lourdes gives inspiration to us all. God has blessed all by knowing Margaret.
Hugh Dempsey, GCMOb
February 11, 2025
Charlie, I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your wife.. Been quite awhile since you and I have talked. but I’m passing on the best to you and your family.
Ronald Worth Ford
February 11, 2025
Dear Michael, lots of strength in these difficult days, it was a pleasure to get to know your mother when she was on Sint Maarten, warm regards Elly & Xavier
February 11, 2025
Sorry for your loss may God comfort you in your grief.
Norris and Theresa Lively
February 11, 2025
Deepest condolences to Michael and family on the passing of Margaret Elizabeth, may she Rest in Peace.
Conor Courtney, Ireland
February 11, 2025
Uncle Charlie, Mary Margaret and Michael- Sending peace, love and prayers in this difficult time. Aunt Margaret will be fondly remembered
Donna (Staib) Pepe
February 10, 2025
We were blessed to know Margaret and could see what a gentle , kind and precious soul she was …it just radiated from her, and it was evident in the love that her family soo strongly showed for her too. We are so very sorry to her wonderful family… grieving is awful, but we know she is peaceful beyond words in the arms of our Lord God and Blessed Mother… with love always , ….Marilou and Allen
February 10, 2025
Dearest Uncle Charlie, Mary-Margaret, Michael and Damien,
Our family is so very sad to hear about the passing of Aunt Margaret. We are very thankful that we were able to visit with her and catch up during your trip to Colorado! She was such a sweet and wonderful lady! Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you all. Love,
Paul Staib and Family
- Visitation
- Friday, February 14, 2025
- 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
- Saint John Neumann Catholic Church
- 601 East Delp Road
- Lancaster, PA
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Friday, February 14, 2025
- 11:30 AM
- Saint John Neumann Catholic Church
- 601 East Delp Road
- Lancaster, PA
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
