New Castle, PA - Blanche Louise Zehner Panella, 89, of New Castle passed away the afternoon of July 10, 2026, at UPMC Jameson Hospital.

Born in New Castle on Oct. 10, 1936, Louise was the daughter of the late Hiram and Ruth Humble Zehner.

Louise is survived by her beloved husband, Pat John Panella. The two were married on Oct. 9, 1971.

After attending and earning her degrees from both Slippery Rock University and Westminster College, Louise went on to teach math at New Castle High School. She then continued as a guidance counselor until she retired in 1990.

Louise was a member of Holy Spirit Parish, St. Vitus Church. She enjoyed going to flea markets, antiquing, crocheting and knitting. Louise also enjoyed cooking and canning her vegetables that she had grown in her garden each year. Louise's greatest joy was spending time with her husband and family.

In addition to her husband, Louise is survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Jane Zehner and numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her brother, William John Zehner and her sister, Elizabeth Jane McCandless.

Family and friends will meet on Saturday, July 18 at 9 a.m. for a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Spirit Parish, St. Vitus Church. Father Benjamin Barr will officiate. Burial will be in Oak Park Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home & Crematory, 941 S. Mill St.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Shenango on The Green, Woodside Community, Jameson North East Floor and Family Hospice for the wonderful care given to Louise.

Online condolences may be offered at www.decarbofh.com.