Marianna B. Nester, 79, of Whitehall, PA, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Allentown. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late Kermit H. and Marianna B. (Tognoli) Trout. Marianna was a proud 1964 graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School. Determined and hardworking from a young age, she attended Joyce Art School of Beauty Culture in the evenings while still in high school, becoming a licensed hairdresser by her senior year. Her passion for the beauty industry led her to become a beauty school instructor and later the owner and operator of several Lehigh Valley salons, including The Hair Factory and The Hair Works, both in Allentown, and Makin’ Waves in Catasauqua. Through her work, she built not only successful businesses but lifelong friendships.

Marianna had a vibrant personality and a wonderful sense of humor. She loved raising her children, tending to her beautiful flower beds, singing and hosting karaoke shows, and traveling the United States to explore new places. Later in life, she delighted in being a Grammy to her beloved grandchildren. She also enjoyed settling in to watch her favorite Rocky movies, murder mysteries, documentaries specifically about the Egyptian pyramids, and lighthearted, funny movies. Marianna could always be counted on for laughter, engaging conversation, and heartfelt advice.

Above all else, Marianna’s greatest love was her family. She was a devoted mother who loved her children deeply and a proud grandmother who absolutely adored her grandchildren. Her love, generosity, and spirit will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, Joseph B. (Teal) Nester of Coplay, PA; her daughter, Amanda L. (Brendan) Ebeling of New Tripoli, PA; her cherished grandchildren, Anna and Ryan Ebeling; her former husband, Robert S. Nester of New Tripoli; as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, January 31st at 11:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Roman Catholic Church, 618 Fullerton Avenue, Whitehall, PA 18052, with a calling hour from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Father Joseph Kweder will be the celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marianna’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that was very close to her heart, c/o Nester Funeral Home, 8405 Kings Highway, New Tripoli, PA 18066. 

If sending flowers, to ensure timely delivery, please place all orders at least 24 hours prior to the start of Marianna's services.