Anna Marie Eckert, 99 1/2, of Bethlehem, passed away at Holy Family Manor in Bethlehem, surrounded by her loving family and longtime close friend on Friday, August 21, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Harold "Scoops" Eckert, who passed away in 1997. Born in Bethlehem in February 1927, She was the daughter of the late Anton and Frances (Sokol) Bratkovics.

Anna Marie was a graduate of Liberty High School, Class of 1944. She continued to stay connected with her classmates and was known for helping plan class reunions.

For more than 25 years, Anna Marie served as the secretary for the Recreation Department for the City of Bethlehem until her retirement. In that role, she was known for her professionalism, her work ethic, and her steady presence. She took great pride in her work. She was also a key member of the City of Bethlehem retirement group, where she helped plan events and remained actively involved with fellow retirees. Her contributions were appreciated by many.

Anna Marie was an active parishioner of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, where her faith was an important part of her life. She sang in the choir and found joy in being part of the church community. Her voice, her presence, and her commitment to her parish were deeply valued. Her faith guided her through life and gave her comfort, strength, and purpose.

She had a special love for the Christmas season and enjoyed baking with family. She was happiest when sharing her cookies and cakes with those she loved. She was also a longtime member of her card club, where she enjoyed good company, conversation, and many cherished memories over the years.

Most of all, Anna Marie loved her family. She treasured time spent with her granddaughters and great-grandson, and she held a special place in her heart for her friends who became family. Her love for them was unconditional, and she found great joy in their accomplishments, visits, and everyday moments together. She will be remembered for her kindness, devotion, her warm smile, and the gentle way she cared for those around her including her telling her great-grandson "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck."

Survivors: She is survived by her loving family, including her daughter, Dorothy "Dori" Kichline and her husband Joel of Allentown; her granddaughters, Molly (Ryan) Karmonick and Kelsey (Lou) Gardiner; and her great-grandson, Raylan James. She is also remembered with love by her many dear friends, whose lives she touched over the years. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her siblings.

Services: A Funeral will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018, where a viewing will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Her burial will be held at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Anna Marie's name to St. Luke's Hospice c/o Development Office, 801 Ostrum Street Fountain Hill, PA 18015 and/or Women's 5K Classic, 6826 Spruce Lane Bath, PA 18104.