Loretta M. Knisel

LORETTA M. KNISEL (nee Riggins), 84, passed into the realm of her heavenly father on Jan. 29, 2024 in Atlantic City, N.J. with her beloved family by her side. She was born in Somers Point, N.J. on Jan. 2, 1940 and grew up in Ocean City, N.J. She later lived in Absecon, N.J. with her husband of 50 years, Edward Knisel Sr. Loretta is predeceased by her husband; parents, Orris Riggins Sr. and Julia (Cosgrove) Riggins; and her brother, Orris Riggins Jr.

She received an associate’s degree in business from Peirce Junior College in Philadelphia. She worked for 29 years for the City of Absecon managing the construction office where she retired in 2015. She enjoyed traveling, craft shows and playing cards. In the 1960s, she worked in Atlantic City’s grand hotels, including the Traymore and the Lafayette. She also modeled and won local pageants. She was bestowed the title of Miss Air Force and later married an Air Force master sergeant. She was also featured in Life magazine when she was a “Jersey Johnson Girl” during the 1964 Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City.

Family was very important to Loretta. She is survived by her three children, Lorenda Knisel (Scott Abbott), Edward Knisel Jr. (Danielle Martin) and Julia Knisel (Stephen Zwink); her grandchildren, Krista Knisel, Kaylee Knisel, Carter Zwink and Jace Knisel; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The viewing will take place from 10AM -11:30AM on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024 at Parsels Funeral Home, 324 New Jersey Ave., Absecon, N.J. There will be an 11:30AM service. Graveside service will follow at Atlantic County Veterans Cemetery, 109 NJ-50, Estell Manor Park, Mays Landing, N.J. For online condolences, please visit www.parselsfh.com.