Ann Cerra Lally
OBITUARY
Ann Cerra Lally, 94, a woman of remarkable resilience, independence and intellect, passed away Tuesday, May 12th, at Carbondale Nursing Home, Carbondale.
Born in Scranton, PA on April 3, 1932, Ann grew up in Carbondale during the Great Depression. Her childhood home was famously situated over the town’s coal mine fires – a fitting backdrop for a woman who would spend her life navigating challenges with determination.
Ann’s academic brilliance was evident early on; she graduated as the Valedictorian of Benjamin Franklin High School’s Class of 1950. In her youth, she was an avid lover of dance, music, and theater. Her classmates remember her as a vibrant leader involved in the Spanish Club, Commercial Honor, and the yearbook staff. Known affectionately by the nickname “Brain” among those close to her, she was described by friends as a truly wonderful, kind and generous person who enjoyed all things beautiful.
Following the untimely death of her husband, Joseph K. Lally at an early age, Ann demonstrated her characteristic strength through a long and industrious career. Her professional path included time with the IRS and correspondence school, as well as serving as an assistant at Valley View Elementary School. Many in the community also remember her from her years at Skippy Terpack’s Seafood Restaurant. Ann eventually retired after many years of dedicated service as the Administrative Assistant to the Psychology Department at Clarks Summit State Hospital.
An essential component of Ann’s makeup was her endless curiosity about the world. This spirit led her to volunteer for many years as a Hostess for Broadway Theater in Scranton and to travel whenever possible, especially enjoying vacations at the seashore. Her commitment to her community was rooted in a deep faith, a devoted member of Christ the King Parish, Archbald, she remained steadfast in attending mass and held a profound devotion to the rosary.
Ann’s generosity was profound yet humble, she made regular anonymous donations to local, national and international charities. Since the 1970’s, she lived as a model of fierce independence. A true perfectionist, she took great pride in her home, where everything was meticulously organized and labeled.
Ann is survived by her devoted daughter Jeanne. Since Joseph’s passing, it was just the two of them–a pair so close that friends often remarked its hard to tell where one began and the other ended. They shared a life filled with laughter, sincerity and an unbreakable bond. She also leaves behind a cherished relationship with her niece, Ann Marie Machek of Simpson, nephews Patrick and Sharon Cerra of Johnson City, NY and Robert Ossig, Scranton, niece Nora Buchanan Will, Frederick Md., who were always there, along with several other nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by a sister Mary Ewonishon and three brothers; Joseph, John and Patrick Cerra.
Jeanne wishes to extend her heartfelt thanks to the staff at Carbondale Nursing and Rehabilitations Center for the excellent care, responsiveness and compassion shown to Ann. Ann will be remembered for her sharp mind, her adventurous spirit and the quiet, steady kindness she offered the world.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 16th, at 10 Am in St. Thomas Aquinas Church, in Archbald.
Viewing will be held 9 to 10 on Saturday, May 16th, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church
Interment at Our Mother of Sorrows Cemetery, PA.
Arrangements by the Harrison Funeral Home, 374 N. Main St., Archbald.
Ann Cerra Lally
May 12, 2026