Mary Elizabeth Owusu-Banahene

Mary Elizabeth (Easley) Owusu-Banahene

May 8, 1944 – January 28, 2022

Mary Elizabeth (Easley) Owusu-Banahene died peacefully in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on January 28, 2022 with her beloved companion of over 14 years and devoted caregiver, Charles Close, by her side. She was 77 years old.

Born in Homestead, Pennsylvania to Columbus Calvin “Johnny” Easley and Lucy May (Wall) Easley; the second of eight children. She was predeceased by her parents, older brother Calvin and younger sister Millicent.

In 1963, Mary graduated from Homestead High School after which she earned a two-year business certificate at a school in Pittsburgh. Mary’s faith never wavered when in the late 1970s she fell on ice while a Cheyney University student and suffered a broken neck which led to paralysis from which she recovered. Following rehabilitation, she returned to Cheyney and earned a Bachelor of Science degree.

For a few years, Mary was a substitute teacher in the Philadelphia Public School System–she was well loved by the students. Her professional career in the insurance industry began with Aetna Life & Casualty and ended upon retirement as a Claims Adjustment Area Supervisor with TransAmerica.

Clark Memorial Baptist Church in Homestead, Pennsylvania was Mary’s hometown church until she moved to Philadelphia. Mary was a proud and faithful member of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Philadelphia for 55 years. She served in various capacities as a Sunday School teacher, member of Senior Usher Board and Adult Chorus; and most notably, President of the Pastor’s Aide for many years. Mary was also an active member of the Burlington County, New Jersey Garden Club.

No matter the circumstances, stranger, friend or family, you could always count on Mary, the prayer warrior, to offer prayer.

Mary took her role as the eldest sister literally and lovingly cared for her siblings in sickness and in health. Mary loved and was devoted to her church, family and friends; however, above all, she loved JESUS, her Lord and Savior most.

Mary is survived by her companion, Charles, her siblings, Alice Ghoah, Lydia (Timothy) Hopes and Keith of Pittsburgh, PA, Alexander of Tokyo, Japan, Daniel of Drexel Hill, PA, nephews and nieces, numerous other relatives, and many dear friends from her church, college, employment and hometown.

Arrangements entrusted to Falk Funeral Homes and Crematory, Inc., Hellertown, PA

To view Mary's service online, please visit:

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