Natalie "Cookie" Abell

Natalie was known for her strong-willed, hardworking nature, and her deep commitment to family values. Her initial tough exterior belied a soft, loving heart, especially towards her children and grandchildren. Natalie's career was marked by her versatility and dedication. She began working at New Jersey Bell Telephone in 1952 and later served as a waitress at the Railroad Inn in Bowie, Maryland. She also worked as a Medical Staff Secretary at Doctors Hospital in Lanham, Maryland, and as an Activities Director at Magnolia Gardens Nursing Home. Natalie continued her service in the hospitality industry at Pasta Plus in Laurel, Maryland, where she worked until the age of 81, earning big tips from her regular customers.

A graduate of Kearny High School in Kearny, New Jersey, Natalie's education played a foundational role in her various career achievements. Beyond her professional life, Natalie enjoyed shopping for antiques, and even had her own store. She was an excellent cook, known particularly for her lasagna.

She cherished the time spent with her close circle of friends, whether over the phone or in person. Her five grandchildren brought her immense joy and were the center of her world.

Natalie was predeceased by her husband, George Abell, Sr.; her father, Joseph Pisapia Sr.; her mother, Susan Cardilli; and her brothers, James Pisapia, Sr., Thomas Pisapia, and Joseph Pisapia, Jr. She is survived by her children, Lisa Lisko (Rick), Bill Brandt (Stacy), Karen Burke (Eddie), and George Abell, Jr (Liz).; grandchildren Cory, Kyle, Timothy, Ryan, and Reagan; and her siblings, Geri Pisapia and Richard Pisapia.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at Robert E. Evans Funeral Home in Bowie, Maryland on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Viewing from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in her memory to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Natalie's legacy of love, strength, and resilience will forever be cherished by the people who knew her.