Opal Irene Porter, age 93, former resident of Cambridge Springs, died peacefully Friday, May 6, 2011 at Wesbury United Methodist Community, Meadville, PA where she had resided since July of 2008. Born on September 27, 1917 in Albion, PA, Opal was a daughter of the late John C. Prindle and Jessie Roberts Prindle. Her husband, Thomas A. Porter whom she married on September 12, 1939 preceded her in death on August 17, 1996.
Opal live in the Cambridge Springs area for most of her married life. She and her husband, “Tom” owned and operated Tom’s Delicatessen for 38 years. She was a life long active member of the Cambridge Springs First United Methodist Church, was a charter member and past president of the United Methodist Women, and enjoyed singing in the choir for over 50 years. Opal also was a life member and Past Worthy Matron of the Order of Eastern Star, Cambridge Springs Chapter #114 and likewise was a life member and past president of the Gam-Sac-Mah Women’s Club in Cambridge Springs.
The hobbies that Opal enjoyed were gardening, playing bridge and crocheting. She had a great interest in all sports and they were discussed constantly in their store. Opal had a special love for her family and friends.
Surviving Opal is a daughter – Peggy Stine and her husband, Robert E. of 1330 Grandiflora Drive, Leland, NC 28451; three grandchildren – Jill Powell Francisco and her husband, Shawn of Kenova, WV; R. Brenton Stine of San Diego, CA; and Bradley T. Stine and his wife, Christa of Fredericksburg, VA; four great grandchildren – Brayden Stine, Carley Stine, Collin Stine and John David Francisco; and a son-in-law – John Powell of Meadville. Also surviving Opal are three sisters – Beverly Miller and her husband, William of Girard, PA; Manetha Stearns and her husband, Merton of Montpelier, VA; and Helen Miller of Mercer, PA.
Preceding Opal in death was her daughter Linda Powell and four brothers – Leo, Clair, Lloyd, and Russell Prindle.
Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Sunday evening from 7-9 and are invited to attend funeral services there Monday morning at 11:00. Reverend Jeff Bobin, pastor of the United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will be in Cambridge Springs Cemetery. Memorials may be give to the Cambridge Springs United Methodist Church, 326 South Main Street, Cambridge Springs, PA 16403.
Please accept my sympathy. Always remember Mrs. Porter waiting on me at the store.
I have fond memories of Mrs. Porter, who was our neighbor across the street for quite a few years when I was growing up. Peggy, please accept my sympathy. Your mom was quite a lady, and I wish I could have known her during these later years. She was always kind and cheerful, a great neighbor, and a wonderful help mate for your dad.
In sympathy,
Donna (Jostes) Thompson
On behalf of our entire family I would like to express our condolances to Opal Porter’s family. She is very fondly remembered from the store and from church.
Betty, Bob and Forrest
Opal will always be remembered as a wondrful, always smiling lady ! We still remember when they had their store in Cambridge Springs and the many times we would see them there. I also remember both of them at the United Methodist Church in Cambridge Springs and how welcome they made you feel!
With Our Sympathy!
John & Shirley Hodges
Opal was an icon of Cambridge Springs. Her kindness and happy smile were always with her when you went into the store or saw her out. She will be missed by all who knew her.We will certainly cherish the fond memories of her. Our deepest sympathy.
Art, Iliene and Family