Stella Stelle Palka Mottley, 98, of Long Branch, died peacefully at home with her son present on Wednesday April 8, 2015. She was born in Dickson City, Pennsylvania and grew up on her family's dairy farm in Cherry Ridge, near Honesdale, PA. During the Great Depression and World War II, she left catholic school to work as a governess in Manhattan and as a hostess at The Dean's in Ocean Grove. Stelle was predeceased by her husband, Thomas P. Mottley, Sr., by her parents, Jozef and Helen Palka, by her brothers, Edward and Joseph, Jr., and Stanley and by her beloved sister, Rose. She was a resident of Long Branch, for over 60 years, most of that time in the West End section, and was communicant of St. Michaels Roman Catholic Church there. Stelle was a strong woman, devoted homemaker, dedicated to her family who always made the best out of every situation. She was a passionate reader of many subjects, from ancient history to Shakespeare to poetry to novels and politics. She spoke conversational Polish language, and was a believer in the importance of education and learning. Stelle enjoyed the Long Branch Public Library, Monmouth Park, Atlantic City, Florida as well as the boardwalk and dining out. Surviving is her son, Thomas P. Mottley, Jr., with whom she lived. A mass of Christian burial will be offered on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Avenue, West End, Long Branch.