The stations of Lilly Broadcasting regret to report the passing of a former WSEE colleague and friend Carol Pella, who lost an extended battle with illness this afternoon.

Carol was a mentor and friend to her fellow journalists for more than 30 years, but she was equally fierce when questioning someone in power who she thought might be abusing the public trust.

At a time when few women entered the ranks of local television news, Pella excelled, not only in the business but in the rough and tumble world of cops and courts.

Among her many achievements were stories that changed how the City of Erie gave out towing contracts and how many officers should be assigned to the vice unit for the war on drugs.

Carol died surrounded by family. She was 62 years old. No public viewing or service is planned.