August 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Roy George Gray, of Rostraver Township, on Saturday, August 9, 2025. He was born January 18, 1944 in McKeesport to the late Roy Sheridan and Doris (Pomilio) Gray. Roy was a man of kindness who lived a Christian life of integrity spending the last 30 years plus in Charleston SC, and recently returned, full circle, to Port Royal. Roy, an accredited songwriter, practicing guitarist, also enjoyed golfing, and playing PC simulator games. Roy could be described as a salesman by heart, a man who lived a life of adventure, racing stock cars, driving truck cross country, and even spent time working for NASA. He was also known as a well-versed entrepreneur, from the early days of collecting and reselling golf balls, to successfully starting and managing multiple businesses in his lifetime. Roy enjoyed relaxing on the water, either sailing or in his speed boat. He also loved photography and loved taking pictures of family and friends. He is survived by his children, Mark (Kim) Gray of West Newton, Erika Gray of Harrisburg, and Cristi (Greg) Orr of Charleston, SC; his 9 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild; siblings, Dean (Lilly) Gray, Marvin (Cathy) Gray, Betsy Sporio, and Scott (Margy) Gray; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Roy is also preceded in death by his wife, Frankie Gray; as well as his sisters, Susan Manning and Rozanne Fowler. Friends are welcome Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 12-3pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. A Memorial Service will follow at 3pm in the funeral home chapel. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
August 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Michael Adam Jones, 30, of Irwin passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025. He was born May 6, 1995 in Pittsburgh to Robert Alan Jones and Susan (Macey) Bauman. Through the years, Mikes passion for cycling turned to motorcycle rides and working around cars - working for Kenny Ross Mazda as a Salesman and as a co-owner of Zak's Bike Shop. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends and traveling. In addition to his parents, Mike is survived by his sisters, Amanda (Jeff) Zeiler of Bethel Park, Amy (John) Dzurko of Bethel Park, and Jessica (Nick) D'Amato of Greensburg; his maternal grandfather, Robert (the late Catherine) Macey; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Donald and Carolyn Jones. Friends are welcome Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 4-8pm and Friday, August 15, 2025 from 10-11am at the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. 412-751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Memorial Service will take place Friday, August 15, 2025 at 11am in the funeral home chapel. Pastor Paul Walter will officiate. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
August 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Janet Eileen Baldridge, 74, of North Huntingdon, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025. She was born February 19, 1951 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Arthur and Gertrude (Thomas) Liebreum. She was a member of the former St. John's Lutheran Church in McKeesport. Janet had a heart of gold, who would give everything for her beloved family, especially her good hugs. She loved God and her church and she had the ability to make everyone she encountered feel special. She loved the life and family that she was blessed with, she especially loved her nieces and nephews.
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August 08, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Carl T. Beedle, 74, of Greenock, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, August 7, 2025. He was born on August 26, 1950 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Maurice and Marie (Kimling) Beedle. He was a retired Operator for the Elizabeth Township Road Department. He loved working on his cars and motorcycles.
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August 08, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Frank E. DeBlasio, 76, of White Oak, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. He was born March 18, 1949 in Greensburg and was the son of the late Frank and Agnes (Timmerman) DeBlasio. On January 5, 1970, Frank married his sweetheart Pat, who became his lifelong friend and closest companion. It was rare to see one without the other. He and Pat together were the DeBlasio Home Repairs team for over 30 years. Frank was a man of principal, well known for his strong work ethic. He was highly regarded within the community for his excellent work and for the many homes in the area that bear his touch. Frank was a well-loved member of The McKeesport Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses for over 50 years. Frank was among the first to be there when anyone was in need. He generously used his trucks, equipment and strength to lend a helping hand. He was a hard, hard worker, always happiest when he was working. He was a great husband, and all in his family were very dear to him. He will be greatly missed.
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August 04, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Theodore E. Kustra, age 78, of White Oak passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at home with his wife and daughter by his side. He was born in McKeesport on July 2, 1947, and was the son of the late Theodore J. and Agnes (Buldak) Kustra. He is survived by his wife of more than 54 years, Donna (Ennis) Kustra, who cared for him lovingly through all his health issues over the years, and his daughter, Megan L. (Eric) Hunt of Shamong, NJ. He was the brother of the late Marilyn Majzer and is survived by several nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, Francis Majzer and sisters-in- law, Deanna and Rose Ennis.
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July 29, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Linda Jaye Morningstar, 76, of North Huntingdon, passed away on Friday, July 25, 2025. She was born November 9, 1948 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Walter and Ruth (Nelson) Wells. She was the loving wife of 48 years to the late Robert John Morningstar, who passed away October 4, 2019. She was a retired Registered Nurse and Administrator at South Hills Health Systems. She recieved her nursing degree at Homestead Hospital School of Nursing, Bachelor's degree in education from California University of Pennsylvania and later attended Empire Beauty School, where she also taught for many years after her nursing career.
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July 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Anna Mary Manz, 92, of White Oak passed away Saturday, July 26, 2025. She was born in Pittsburgh on November 23, 1932 to the late Erwin and Elizabeth (Steimels) Goertler. She was the loving wife to the late Raymond Anthony Manz before his passing in 2016. Ann was an incredibly talented pianist/organist, and musical educator. After graduating from Elizabeth Seton High School, Ann attended Duquesne University for her Bachelor and Master's Degree in Music Education. As the Director of Music Ministries, she taught among many catholic grade & high schools, as well as Point Park University. Anna was also a member, for more than 15 years, of the sisters of St. Francis in Millvale, Pa.
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July 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Shirley Flanigan, 77, of Elizabeth Township passed away Thursday, July 24, 2025. She was born at home in Blythedale on May 23, 1948 to the late William and Ann (Frabizio) Coffer. She was the loving wife to the late Francis "Butch" Flanigan, who passed away October 22, 2017. She worked 40+ years as a lab technician for UPMC McKeesport Hospital, and held other caretaker positions with local nursing homes, even after retirement in 2007. Shirley was a WMBU Social Club member, as well as a member at the Sutersville Moose - always surrounded by great friends and family. She was known to be a huge social butterfly, and had a funny personality. She is survived by her sister, Rosalee "Cookie" Rodgers of Meadville; and various cousins, nieces, and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Shirley is preceded in death by her son, Thomas William Flanigan; and by her brother, John Coffer (surviving wife, Peggy). Friends are welcome Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 5-8pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert director. Private interment will take place at West Newton Cemetery. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
July 25, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Nancy Cox Cochrane, 96, of Elizabeth Township passed away peacefully in her home of 60 years, surrounded by her children. She was born on November 4, 1928 in McKeesport, PA to William J Cox Jr and Elisabeth Young Cox. After attending McKeesport Public Schools through 10 th grade, she went to Grier School, a boarding school in Tyrone, PA where she enjoyed horseback riding and was proud to make the first team in field hockey. She started college at Western College in Oxford, Ohio (now part of Miami University of Ohio), and after two years, she convinced her mother to let her transfer to Pennsylvania State College in State College, PA (now Pennsylvania State University). She joined the Delta Delta Delta sorority and graduated in 1952 with a bachelor’s degree from the School of Home Economics where she focused on early childhood education. Nancy married George A Cochrane, whom she had met at Penn State, and together they raised four children in Elizabeth Township. Known for her abundant energy, Nancy filled many volunteer roles over the years including PTA fundraiser, Brownie troop leader, and local American Field Service member bringing foreign exchange students to Elizabeth Forward High School and sending EF students abroad. She served in many capacities at Mt Vernon Community Presbyterian Church, including as Deacon and Elder. She volunteered for decades at the McKeesport Hospital Gift Shop (and later the UPMC McKeesport Gift Shop) raising money for the hospital as part of the Junior Committee. She also worked for 25 years as the office manager of her husband’s business. In later years she joined the Garden Club of McKeesport, working in the rose gardens at Renziehausen Park through her 80’s. Nancy was predeceased by her husband George and her brother William J Cox III.
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July 24, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Rose Mae Izydorczyk, 92, of Port Vue, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. She was born September 17, 1932 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (Tomaino) Molinaro. She graduated from McKeesport High School in 1950. She was a member of the former St. Joseph Parish in Port Vue. She was the loving wife of the late Eugene A. Izydorczyk, who passed away on May 26, 2022. Her husband and family were her entire world, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend.
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July 24, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph A. Villi, Jr., 53, of Elizabeth Township passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2025. He was born in McKeesport on February 16, 1972 to Joseph A. Villi, Sr., and the late Ruth (Beahm) Villi. Joe graduated from Elizabeth Forward High School, attended Pitt University, followed by becoming a licensed Master Plumber - working for Mongiovi & Son, leading up to his illness. In his youth, Joe was a sports fanatic, playing baseball from a young age all the way through college. He also wrestled, played football, and competitive darts. In high school, he was a 4x State Champion and National Champion in Academic Games. He is survived by his father, Joseph A. (Kathleen) Villi, Sr., of Elizabeth Township; a daughter, Kendra Villi-Rauch of Wagener, SC; siblings, Valerie Villi of Elizabeth Township, and Chris (Jennifer) Villi of Pittsburgh; as well as nieces and nephews, Ashley Wojcik-Mancini, Jonathan Wojcik, Aaron Villi, and Caleb Villi; and great-nieces and great-nephews, Madelyn & Addison Mancini, and Hunter & Jaxon Wojcik. Friends are welcome Monday, July 28, 2025 from 2-4 & 6-8pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Funeral Service will take place Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 10:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Jefferson Memorial Park. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
July 18, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Beverly G. Filson, 86, of Buena Vista, passed away Friday, July 18, 2025. She was born April 12, 1939 in Frank and was the daughter of the late Michael and Rosella (Lovacello) Tedesco. Beverly started her working career on the production line at the former Thurman's Candies and went on to work for over 40 years at the former KJ Stickrash Plumbing. She attended mass at both Sts. Joachim and Ann - St. Michael Church and The Divine Redeemer, both in Elizabeth Township. Beverly was a very caring and loving person, who knew someone everywhere she went. She was very active and enjoyed shopping. She loved her family, especially her nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews and her great-great niece and nephew! She will be greatly missed.
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July 17, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Sara Margaret Sproul peacefully left this world on July 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on December 9, 1939, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Sara grew up in Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, where she graduated as the Salutatorian of her class at Glassport High School in 1957. She later earned her degree in accounting with honors from Tidewater Community College, a testament to her lifelong dedication to learning and excellence.
Sara built a remarkable career as a controller in accounting, working in the field for more than 45 years. She was known for her integrity, precision, and unwavering work ethic.
To know Sara was to love her. She was one of the kindest souls you could ever meet and never knew a stranger. With a warm heart and generous spirit, she touched the lives of everyone around her.
Sara had a passion for life’s simple joys — she loved baking, the Outer Banks in North Carolina, gardening, and cheering on her beloved Pittsburgh and Penn State sports teams. Whether it was the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates, or Nittany Lions, you could always find her tuned in and cheering them on. Her top sports memory was attending Super Bowl XL in Detroit, Michigan, where she watched the Pittsburgh Steelers win — an experience she cherished deeply.
Sara also found joy and peace in writing poetry, and her strong faith was a guiding light she carried with grace throughout her life. She had a special love for cardinals, often seeing them as comforting signs from above.
Baking was one of her greatest joys — she made cookies year-round and you could always count on her to know everyone’s favorites. But at Christmas, she brought out her signature nut rolls, a beloved holiday tradition that was as special as the season itself. Her warmth and generosity came through in every batch, making those around her feel loved and at home.
Above all, Sara loved her family and friends deeply and unconditionally.
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July 14, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Bernard Charles "Bernie" Linkhauer, 82, of McKeesport passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025. He was born in McKeesport on January 19, 1943 to the late Charles Theodore and Ruby Clair (Wardropper) Linkhauer. Bernie worked for many companies as a CDL Truck Driver, and had the personality of a truck driver through and through. He was retired Teamsters Local #30, as well as a member of the National Railroad Historical Society - Horseshoe Curve Chapter, since the 80's. He also thoroughly enjoyed hunting, and train excursions. He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Carol Lee (McLean) Linkhauer; his 2 sons, Bernie Lee (Lisa Coulson) Linkhauer of Elizabeth Township, and Curt (Christy) Linkhauer of Yorkhaven, PA; grandchildren, Brittney (Corey) Wahl, Kyle (Courtney Stickler) Linkhauer, and Carrie Linkhauer; great-grandchildren, Hudson & Weston Linkhauer; as well as a sister, Eileen Linkhauer; and nieces and nephews. Friends are welcome Wednesday, July 16, 2025 from 4-8pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Funeral Service will take place Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:00am in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at the Mount Vernon Cemetery. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
