Richard D. Barnes
February 20, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Richard D. Barnes, age 82, of McKeesport, died February 17, 2025, at St. Clair Hospital. Born October 14, 1942, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late John "Jack" and Betty (Toal) Barnes and husband of Gloria (Winter) Barnes for 55 years. Richard was a proud Air Force veteran, serving his country with honor. Following his military service, he brought his expertise and craftsmanship to the workforce as a pipe fitter at CP Industries for 48 years. His commitment to his profession was matched only by his devotion to his family. Richard was a long-standing member of the White Oak American Legion Post 701, where he fostered camaraderie and shared many treasured moments with fellow veterans. A man of many interests, Richard enjoyed the spirit of competition found in both the former Christy Park Bowling League and St. Mark's Golf League. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports, always cheering them on with the unwavering pride of a doting grandfather. Richard also delighted in trips to the casino, spending hours trying his luck and sharing laughter with friends and family.
Gwen Catherine Lang, age 78, of Liberty Borough, died February 15, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center in Mckeesport. Born September 9, 1946, in Baldwin, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Florence (Littel) Hardesty and wife of the late David Lang, Sr. Gwen was a member of the Liberty Presbyterian Church. She dedicated countless hours to supporting her son, David Lang, during his school years, proudly serving as a band parent for the South Allegheny High School Marching Band. Her unwavering encouragement and spirit resonated with both students and families alike. An avid bowler, Gwen enjoyed spending time at Miracle Lanes in Monroeville, where she was a member of a local bowling league. Her passion for bowling was only matched by her love for her feline companions, Mittens and Banjo, who brought joy and comfort into her home. In her leisure time, Gwen found great joy in scrapbooking, capturing precious memories and moments that reflected her love for family and friends.
Kindhearted Mathilda J. Bendl Benson, age 105, of White Oak, died at home on February 11, 2025, under the care of Heartland Hospice. She was born at home on December 27, 1919, in Latrobe, PA, the daughter of Joseph and Philomena Bendl of Latrobe, PA. Beloved wife of the late Ralph A. Benson; mother of Ralph A. Benson Jr. (Jane) of Bethel, OH, Lewis B. Benson (Linda) of Sewickley, Joseph G. Benson (Martha) of Murrysville, and John F. Benson of White Oak. Grandchildren include Anne Louise Benson of East Rochester, John Robert Benson (Shannon) of Portland, Oregon, Joshua Arnott Benson of Austin, Texas, Joseph William Benson of Murrysville, and Emily Benson Reis (Patrick) of Howell, Michigan; great-grandchildren include Vincent Benson, Joseph Patrick Reis, Julie Therese Reis, Gemma Marie Reis, Gianna Faustina Reis, Bella Lucia Reis, and Michael Paul Reis. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Ralph A. Benson; her brothers, Joseph, Anthony, Richard, and
Martha J. Vesonder, age 90, of White Oak, was unexpectedly called home to our Lord and Savior on February 9, 2025. She was predeceased by her parents, Marion (Sokol) and Floyd G. Okeson, and her husband of 17 years, Regis F. Vesonder. She is survived by her sister, LaVerne Roidt of North Versailles; daughters Paula Greenwald of White Oak and Laura (Chris) Karpinsky; her beloved grandchildren, Stephen and Michelle Karpinsky of North Versailles; nieces and nephew, Marie Ruby of McKeesport, Sarah Boyd, Ruth Towns and Saul Vesonder all of Peoria, Illinois. She is also survived by many cousins in the Sokol and Vesonder families. She remained in close phone contact with Sue Ellen Lind, Claudia Misage, and Joy Kushnir and met with Tim Vesonder upon occasion over a plate of Tillie's spaghetti. She was fond of her cousin Roseanne Kinzler, her good friend Richard Andracki, and his (late) mother Flo.
Yolanda R. "Corky" Wood, age 96, of White Oak, died at home on January 28, 2025. Born January 4, 1929, in Boston, PA, she was the daughter of the late Alex and Angelina (Fornaro) Roma and wife of the late Wallace L. "Woody" Wood. She and Woody were married for almost 60 years from August 3, 1951 to his death on January 31, 2011. Her spirit was as bright as the sun, and she found immense happiness in swimming and basking in warm sunlight, often spending cherished moments at the Ligonier Country Inn, Ligonier Beach, Rainbow Gardens, and the White Oak pool. She had a deep love for her dogs, which were cherished companions throughout her life. Her passion for adventure led to many memorable vacations, particularly to the sandy shores of Wildwood, NJ, where laughter echoed against the waves. Throughout her life, she enjoyed trips to places like Penn State, New York, and cross country road trips with Woody, experiences that filled her heart with joy and created lasting memories. She also enjoyed dancing and bowling.
Beverly M. Linn, age 79, of North Versailles, passed on January 30, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center in Glen Hazel. Born June 22, 1945, in Tarentum, she was the daughter of the late Howard and Stella (Horzempa) Reesman and wife of Martin Linn. Beverly dedicated over 20 years of her professional life to J.C. Penney, where she served as a manager, cultivating relationships with her team and customers. She also brought compassion to her roles in data entry with visiting nurses, always putting the needs of others first. Beverly, an avid reader and pianist, found joy and solace in the arts. She cherished losing herself in the pages of a good book. Her love for music echoed through the halls of her home, offering a soundtrack to her life that will be fondly remembered by her loved ones. She was a proud grandmother whose greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren. Beverly embraced the beauty of the world through her travels with her husband Marty. She embarked on many memorable journeys, taking bus trips through the enchanting north and southwest, savoring the stunning landscapes of wine country on the west coast. She loved the thrill of train travel, making memories on routes to Nashville and New Orleans, and exploring new horizons on cruises to Alaska and along the St. Lawrence River.
Elizabeth A. Burge, age 64, of McKeesport, died on January 18, 2025, at Twin Lakes Rehabilitation and Healthcare. Born January 21, 1960, in White Oak, she was the daughter of the late George and Elizabeth (Gross) Grubb and wife of the late Richard Burge. She served her community as a paramedic and was also an employee of the former Heatherington Funeral Home, where her warmth and empathy provided comfort during some of life's most challenging moments. A devoted member of the First Evangelical Free Church in McKeesport, Elizabeth found joy in her faith and embraced the teachings of the Bible. She cherished the written word and often found delight in reading both scripture and poetry, which fueled her gentle spirit and love for life. Elizabeth had a remarkable ability to listen with an open heart, always ready to lend an ear to those in need.
Thomas Edward Procup, age 85, of McKeesport, passed away on January 16, 2025, at Passavant Community of Zelienople. Born December 2, 1939, in McKeesport, PA, he was the son of the late Patrick and Helen (Sowa) Procup and the loving husband of the late Barbara (Grass) Procup.
