Ethel Mae (Salzman) Pyles, 75, of Punxsutawney, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Penn Highlands DuBois.
She was born in Kaplan, Louisiana on October 26, 1950, a daughter of the late Freddie Salzman and Inez (Guidry) Salzman.
On October 2, 1970, she married William Chester Pyles. They shared fifty-one years of marriage prior to his death on September 26, 2021.
Ethel became a licensed cosmetologist who took great pride in owning and operating her own salon, a place that reflected both her talent and her heart. Her salon was a gathering place filled with conversation, laughter and trust, built through years of dedication to her calling.
She was a devoted mother whose life centered on caring for her family, with patience and unwavering deep compassion she lovingly cared for her son Billy, and grandchildren ensuring they were safe, supported and surrounded by unconditional love. Her selflessness, resilience and boundless love made an enduring example of what it means to be a mother and grandmother.
She is survived by two dearly loved children, William “Billy” D. Pyles of Punxsutawney and April (Chad) Jacklet of Troutdale, Virginia; four grandchildren who meant the world to her, Nathaniel Pyles, Morgan Skinner, Ian and Levi Jacklet; one brother, Freddie Salzman of Louisiana; two sister, Evelyn Guidry of Louisiana and Brenda Wade of Texas.
Preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband Bill, cherished daughter, Sharon Skinner and her husband Ronald Skinner; and one brother, Evans Salzman.
Friends will be received from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Paul Price.
Interment will follow at Markton Cemetery.
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