Marianna B. Nester, 79, of Whitehall, died peacefully Jan. 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.

She was a 1964 graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School. 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.

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 survived by her son, Joseph B. (Teal), of Coplay; daughter, Amanda L. (Brendan) Ebeling, of New Tripoli; grandchildren, Anna and Ryan Ebeling; former husband, Robert S., of New Tripoli; several cousins, nieces, nephews, friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Jan. 31 at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Roman Catholic Church, 618 Fullerton Ave., Whitehall, 18052, with a calling hour 10-11 a.m. Father Joseph Kweder will be the celebrant.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart, c/o Nester Funeral Home, 8405 Kings Highway, New Tripoli, 18066.

Visit NesterFuneralHome.com for a full obituary and online condolences.