Margaret Zelma Wesner, 88, of Bethlehem, PA, passed away peacefully at her residence on May 1, 2026. Born on January 31, 1938, in Petaluma, CA, to the late John and Ruth Shetka, she lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, education, and service to others.

Margaret was a woman of quiet strength, deep kindness, and steadfast love. She carried herself with grace and warmth, and those who knew her were touched by her gentle spirit and her genuine concern for others. Her life was centered around the people she loved most, and she found her greatest joy in the blessing of her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was a proud graduate of Liberty High School and later continued her education by earning a certification in Early Childhood Education from Northampton Community College. Margaret valued learning and believed deeply in the importance of nurturing and guiding young minds. That belief was reflected in her work and in the way she cared for others throughout her life.

Margaret dedicated many years of service to the children and families of her community as a Nursery School Teacher at First Baptist Church on Linden Street in Bethlehem. In that role, she combined compassion, patience, and a strong sense of purpose, offering care and instruction to those entrusted to her. She remained devoted to her work until her retirement in 2020 at the age of 82, a testament to her remarkable commitment and energy. Her years of service left a lasting impression on countless lives.

Faith was an important part of Margaret's life, and she was a member of Emmanuel Evangelical Congregational Church in Bethlehem, PA. Her church family was a source of comfort and fellowship, and her faith guided her through life's joys and challenges. She lived in a way that reflected her beliefs, showing kindness, humility, and a generous heart to all who knew her.

SURVIVORS: Margaret is survived by her daughters, Sandra Wood and her husband David of Leesport, and Janice Bencak and her husband Ernie of Bethlehem. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Tina Sherman of Florida. Her beloved grandchildren include Stephen Wood and his wife Carolyn, Daniel Wood and his wife Emily, Kevin Wesner, Erin Hawk, Andrea Wesner, and Joel Wood and his wife Sarah. She was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her great delight and pride.

SERVICES: A Funeral Service will be held at 1:30 P.M. on Friday May 8, 2026 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018, where family will receive relatives and friends from 12:30 P.M. until the time of the service. Interment will follow and conclude services at Bethlehem Memorial Park, 1851 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Margaret's services have been entrusted to Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

CONTRIBUTIONS: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Margaret's name to Emmanuel Evangelical Congregational Church, 75 E Union Blvd, Bethlehem, PA 18018.