Petah K. (Clabaugh) Sipling, 67, of New Oxford, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, October 26, 2026. Born on September 5, 1959, in Hanover, Pennsylvania, Petah was the daughter of the late Elmer Clabaugh and Phyetta “Jake” (Mackley) Clabaugh.
Petah is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Bradley P. Sipling, whom she married on May 19, 1998, in Jamaica; her daughter, Christine Shaeffer, and son-in-law, Bradley Shaeffer; her cherished grandchildren, Peyton Shaeffer and Braeden Shaeffer; and her beloved grand-dog, Tucker. She is also survived by her four sisters, Gail Price, Susan Clabaugh, Martha Priest, and Holly Pugh, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Affectionately known as “Momma Pete,” Petah was truly one of a kind. Her larger-than-life personality, infectious laughter, and outgoing spirit could light up any room. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a way with words and expressions that kept those around her laughing.
Throughout her life, Petah held a variety of jobs, including working at Utz, where she met her husband, Bradley. Some of her most meaningful work, however, came from her passion for helping others. She served as an activity’s director at the Brethren Home and worked with clients at the HART Center in New Oxford, as well as other organizations supporting children and adults with special needs. She had a special gift for connecting with people of all ages and abilities and bringing happiness into their lives.
One of Petah's greatest passions was teaching swimming lessons from her home, something she devoted many years to. She lovingly referred to her students as her “swim kids” and took tremendous pride in helping them gain confidence and learn a skill they could carry throughout their lives. She also spent years teaching water aerobics, sharing her love of the water and her spirited personality with others.
Outside of her work, Petah had a green thumb and loved tending to her plants, flowers, and landscaping. She enjoyed cooking and preparing food for family and friends, collecting antiques, and finding new places to explore. Whether it was a spontaneous day trip, discovering a new brewery or restaurant, or simply spending time with loved ones, Petah knew how to turn ordinary days into special memories. Her love and compassion extended to animals as well. Petah had a soft spot for cats, opening her heart and home to many rescued cats over the years and giving them the love and care they deserved.
In recent years, she especially treasured her vacations to the Outer Banks, where friends became like family and beloved traditions were built around laughter, good food, and unforgettable moments that created memories to last a lifetime.
Petah was also a proud member and enthusiastic supporter of the New Oxford Social Club. She loved spending time there, often sharing stories and laughter with friends. For Petah, the club was more than just a place to gather; it was a community of friendships and familiar faces that brought her so much happiness. Above all, Petah will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, generous heart, and the way she made people feel welcome and loved. She leaves behind countless memories, endless laughter, and a little bit of “Momma Pete” in everyone fortunate enough to have known her. While the world may be a little quieter without her, the joy she brought to others will never fade.
In accordance with Petah's wishes, no formal viewing or funeral service is planned at this time. A celebration of her life will be held in the spring of 2027 at the New Oxford Social Club in New Oxford, Pennsylvania. Additional details will be announced at a later date. Please check the Feiser website in March for more details.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Petah's memory to the Adams County SPCA, honoring her lifelong love and compassion for animals.