Mary Ann Backstrom

Mary Ann Backstrom, 75 of New Castle, formerly of Washington, died Monday, June 5, 2017 at home, following a lengthy illness. She was born April 12, 1942 in Washington, the daughter of the late Lucien John Bright and Gertrude Eleanor Brock Bright. Mary Ann graduated from Trinity High School and worked as an administrator in the legal field. She was Episcopalian by faith and her primary happiness was learning more about God every day and setting an example accordingly. Mary Ann loved her family deeply and always said “Always Remember… You are Loved”. On April 12, 1974, she married William J. Backstrom, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Pete (Donna) Molinaro of Orange Park, FL; two daughters, Beth Ann Hodges of New Castle, PA and Jennifer Alavaro of Birds Boro, PA; a brother, Lucien J. (Becky Griffith) Bright of Washington; eight grandchildren, Holly Ann Hodges, J.P. (Christina) Molinaro, Chablis Molinaro, Dominique (Ben) DeVan, Dillon Oktem, Nicole, Natalie and Buddy Alavaro; three great grandchildren, Charlie Marie, Jameson Parker and Kennedy Lynn; a nephew, Lucien Bright; nieces, Missy Andrews and Cathy Buck; sister in love, Donna Gresham; other family members and life long friends. Deceased are a daughter, Janna Backstrom and sisters in love, Norma K. Prah and Jan Bright. A celebration of her life will be held at her home on Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 3 to 5 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Ave, Washington.