Jane P. Norelli

Jane P. Norelli passed away peacefully on May 26 after a long and well-lived life, just short of reaching the 100-year milestone. Born in Easton, PA in 1925, she was the daughter of Giuseppe and Serafina (Famularo) Maiorana. She was predeceased by M. Clyde Norelli, her husband of 68 years, and 8 siblings (Margaret, Sera, Anthony, Josephine, and Salvatore Maiorana, Mary Indovina, Nancy Stanley, and Connie Franco). Surviving her are children, Karen Norelli and Nick Franco, Charles and Wendy Norelli, and M. Clyde Norelli, Jr.; grandchildren, Alex, Andrew, Charles and Julia Norelli; and great grandchildren, Luca and Rocco Norelli. Jane graduated from Easton High School where she won the American Legion Citizenship award. Before marrying, she worked at Easton National Bank. After moving to Emmaus in the 1960s she was active in the Emmaus Women's Club, the Newcomer’s Club of Emmaus, St. Margaret’s Church, and the Lehigh Valley Cotillion Dance Club. She loved to play bridge, gathering regularly with several groups until well into her 80s. In her earlier years she and Clyde could be found in St. Margaret's kitchen making breakfast for the congregation after church services. And in their later years, they enjoyed golfing with a wonderful group of friends at Brookside Country Club and traveling extensively throughout the world. She shared her love of travel with her grandsons, including them on trips to Italy, her parents’ birthplace, and China. Jane’s love of family and of cooking were evident in her holiday feasts, a tradition that started with her large Italian family. In addition to planned holiday events, she easily provided many impromptu dinners for family, friends, and unexpected guests. Jane was a consummate investor and meticulous bookkeeper. She used the skills and knowledge gained over the years to plan for her own financial security, and to contribute to the education of her children and grandchildren. Jane’s kind, loving ways and inner strength forged the lives and family values of her children. Nicknamed, “Joyful Jane”, she was quick to lend a hand to friends and family in need, and tireless in all her endeavors. With high expectations for those she cared for, she taught us all that quitting is not an option, and that knowledge, dedication, and perseverance will lead to success. A devoted mother and grandmother, Jane rarely missed her children’s and grandchildren’s events and was always supportive and comforting. She will be deeply missed. The Norelli family is especially grateful to all the staff at the Galilee House at Moravian Hall Square for the loving care Jane received throughout her years of residence there. Their kindness and compassion, especially during the COVID times of isolation and as her health declined, will always be remembered and deeply appreciated. They helped her feel vital and loved and provided many opportunities for her to enjoy life and dance (a favorite activity throughout her life) whenever the opportunity arose. A memorial service will be held at the St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 150 Elm Street, Emmaus, PA on Tuesday June 3, 2025 with the visiting hour beginning at 10:00 am. The service will begin at 11:00 am followed by burial at Greenwood Cemetery, 2010 W. Chew St., Allentown, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St Margaret’s Church or Meals On Wheels of the Greater Lehigh Valley, 1302 N. Sherman St., Allentown, PA 18109.

Jane P. Norelli

May 26, 2025