Alma M. Bear, 86, of Carlisle,was called home, onFriday, December 13, 2013, at Forest Park Health Center, Carlisle. She was born on June 27, 1927, in Newburg, a daughter of the late Pirl David and Lula (Bistline) Culbertson.

Alma graduated from Shippensburg High School and the former Carlisle Commercial College. She retired after 25 years of service with the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce, where she was a secretary. In her younger years, she worked as a typist for the former Cochran & Allen Hardware Store, Carlisle. Alma was an active member of Waggoners United Methodist Church, Carlisle and member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. She was an excellent seamstress and typist. Alma enjoyed crocheting, family camping and especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 63 years, Ray A. Bear, three sons; Charles A. (Cynthia) Bear, Carlisle, Michael D. (Darlene) Bear, Mt. Holly Springs and William R. Bear of Auburn, PA, one sister, Irene Hockenberry of Newburg, 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Alma was predeceased by one brother, Paul Culbertson and one sister, Alberta Ocker.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. in the Ewing Brothers Funeral Home, 630 S. Hanover St., Carlisle, with Rev. Tim Funk officiating. Burial will follow in Waggoners United Methodist Cemetery. A viewing will be held on Wednesday from 6 - 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to her church, 1271 Longs Gap Rd., Carlisle, PA 17013.