Port Norris Legends

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Mary Ella (Nickelson) Morie

Mary Ella was born on January 27,1920 to Alvin Nickelson and Ina Adams Nickelson of Port Norris. They lived in a duplex on the corner of Church and Brown Streets. Mary Ella was the eldest of six children; five girls and one boy. She graduated from Port Norris High school as valedictorian. Her sharp mind and strong work ethic sustained her through difficult years when the Great Depression and family tragedy caused her to be more responsible than any young woman should have to be.

Although she has been a resident of Mauricetown for over 70 years, her roots are in Port Norris.

On November 20, 2011, Mary Ella Morie was honored as a Living Legend of Port Norris.

MARY ELLA MORIE 103, of Mauricetown passed away at home on Thursday March 30, 2023, surrounded by her loving family and dedicated caregivers. Born in Port Norris, NJ on January 27th 1920, she was the daughter of the late Alvin and Ina Adams Nickelson. She was married for 38 years to the love of her life the late Jesse T. Morie and has been a resident of Mauricetown since 1941. As a faithful member of the Haleyville United Methodist Church, Mary Ella folded the bulletins until she was no longer able. She was honored as a living legend by the Port Norris Historical Society on November 20, 2011. Mary Ella was a skillful business woman and served as the office manager for the Morie Sand Company until retirement. The Board of Directors for the Cumberland County Guidence Center was grateful for her 25 years of service. She also served as Secretary for the Commercial Township Planning Board and volunteered her time for 25 years preparing taxes for Senior Citizens at the Millville Library 

Mary Ella was an avid gardener. Many people enjoyed the bounty of her garden and the wonder of her greenhouse. Her beautiful home and grounds were the center of many family gatherings and pool parties. A true philanthropist at heart, she was always willing to help and share. 

Left to cherish her memory are stepson, Jesse T. Morie Jr. (Peggy) of Millville, five step grandchildren, five step great-grandchildren, three step great-great-grandchildren, sister Carol Garrison of Laurel Lake, and many nieces & nephews and great nieces & nephews. She was predeceased by her stepdaughter Grace Madigan, siblings Henry Nickelson, Gertrude Bailey, Isabel McDonald and Alvina Baum. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Mauricetown United Methodist Church 9574 Noble Street Mauricetown, NJ 08329 on Wednesday April 12, 2023 at 11:30 AM with Rev. Erik Ostrow officiating. Interment will be in Haleyville Cemetery. A memorial visitation will be from 10:30 to 11:30 AM in the church. 
Memorial donations may be made to Haleyville United Methodist Church 809 Steep Run Rd, Millville, NJ 08332 or The Mauricetown Fire Company P.O. Box 45 Mauricetown, NJ 08329. 

To email condolences and or tributes please visit www.hoffmanfuneralhomes.net