Lydia C Abel

Lydia was born to parents John and Grace Charles on September 29, 1940 and grew up in and around Media, PA. She graduated from Media High School and attended Susquehanna University for a two year medical secretary program. While beginning her career as a medical secretary at Jefferson Hospital, she spent most of her working life, like her life in general, in churches. She served as the secretary/church administrator for Media Presbyterian Church, Concord Liberty Presbyterian Church, Wayne Presbyterian Church, and Church on the Mall in Plymouth Meeting.

Lydia married the late William D. Abel in 1993 and they lived together in Media, PA before relocating to East Norriton, PA. Lydia is survived by her children Eric MacDonald, Scott MacDonald, and Sarah McVey, as well as her son-in-law Jim McVey. She is also survived by three grandchildren, whom she adored: Connor, Colin, and Rachael McVey. She is also survived by the father of her children, William MacDonald of Vero Beach, FL. Lydia’s husband Bill preceded her in death just 6 weeks earlier. She was also preceded in death by her brother David Charles. Lydia loved her pets and those of her children. Her loving cat, Wilson, clearly misses both her and Bill.

As one of her grandchildren put it, Lydia was “a loving and caring woman who would do anything for her family.” Lydia spent much of her life living in Media, PA. She and her husband spent their last 19 years living in an in-law suite with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. She and Bill loved being there for their grandchildren, on whom they lavished love and support. Lydia was actively involved as a member of several churches throughout her lifetime, where she also served as a Presbyterian Elder, Clerk of Session, and taught Bible studies. Long time members of Media Presbyterian Church may remember her teaching the Bethel Bible study series. She also sang in the choir under the direction of her beloved father, John W. Charles. Lydia loved singing and she loved the Lord. She went on to be an active member of Concord Liberty Presbyterian Church and, after moving to East Norriton, Church on the Mall in Plymouth Meeting. In her final years, she enjoyed participating in Bible study groups at Fairview Village Church. Her best friends were those she prayed and served with in these churches. Lydia was seen as a spirited and spirit-filled woman who brought love, service, and cheerfulness wherever she went. Even in the end, as she endured the pain from a fall, her nurses commented on how much they enjoyed working with her. Lydia is now celebrating her favorite time of the year, Christmas, with the angels in heaven.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 26 at 11:00 AM for both Lydia and Bill at Media Presbyterian Church, 30 E. Baltimore Pike, Media, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Lydia’s name can be made to Media Presbyterian Church (mediapresbyterian.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at CremationSocietyofPennsylvania.com for the Abel family.