Marian Sue McElwee

A well known journalist and musician, Marian Sue McElwee, died Saturday, March 23, 2024.

Throughout her life she pursued two careers. One in journalism and one in music.

As a journalist, she was hired by The Daily News at the time. She was only the second full-time female sportswriter in the commonwealth. Sue received nearly 20 awards for excellence in writing in Pennsylvania Women’s Press Association and the prestigious first place in featured writing from the Pennsylvania Newspaper Publishers Association.

As a musician, she was hired by 15th Street Methodist Church at the age of 15. She continued her working career for 68 years — the last being as organist at the Huntingdon Presbyterian Church.

One of the highlights of Sue’s life was playing at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

Born Jan. 10, 1940, Sue was the daughter of John Henry and Gladys (McCune) McElwee. Preceding her in death were her parents and an older brother John Henry Jr. who died when he was 7 1/2 months old.

A graveside service will be held at Alto Reste Cemetery in Altoona, officiated by the Rev. Brett Hoover.

Later this year, there will be an organ recital at the Huntingdon Presbyterian Church to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the organ.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cutright Funeral Homes PC, 313 Fairgrounds Road, Huntingdon.

Online condolences may be shared at www.huntingdondailynews.com/obituaries

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