Elda Jane Balmer

Elda Jane (Watters) Balmer, 73, of New Cumberland died July 31 at her home after a valiant battle with cancer.

Born on May 5, 1944, in Mifflinville, Pa., Elda was the daughter of the late Homer and Sara (Malone) Watters. She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, John D. Balmer, and her sister, Molly Watters.

Elda’s passion for all things literary and her desire to spread the proper use of the English language propelled her into a lifelong career of writing and editing. Her knowledge of correct punctuation brought many local students to her dining room table through the years.

She graduated from The Pennsylvania State University in 1966. Following graduation, she taught in Tioga, Pa. until she married John and moved to New Cumberland. When her three daughters were young, she wrote scripts for a local children’s television program, “Magic Cocoon.” She worked as secretary at United Methodist Church in New Cumberland where her responsibilities included writing and preparing church bulletins. Next, she joined Diocesan Publications as a proofer. In addition, Elda worked for the West Shore School District where she worked side by side with English teachers in the district as a theme aide.

Eventually, Elda landed exactly where she could follow one of her passions. She acquired a position with the Pennsylvania Legislative Reference Bureau as a proofer. She advanced to a finalist position until she retired in 2016 after 30 years of service.

Elda and her husband, John, were members of Great Books. They both were ardent Penn State fans, and Elda was a life member of The Penn State Alumni Association. Known for her knitting and crocheting, Elda spent many hours doing both.

Elda is survived by three daughters: Kristin Balmer (husband, Jeff Bailey) of Prospect Park, Pa., Amy Logan (husband, Drew) of Three Oaks, Mich., and Ann Balmer of Harrisburg. She also is survived by her sister-in-law, Helen Titzel (husband John) and brother-in-law, Ben Balmer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society or Hospice of Central Pennsylvania.

Visitation will be from 10:30am until memorial services at 11am Thursday, August 17, at Parthemore Funeral Home, New Cumberland.