January 22, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Virginia Katherine “Ginger” Murray, age 65, of White Oak, PA, died on Sunday, January 19, 2025. She was born December 5, 1959, in New Martinsville, WV, to the late Jack and Katherine Virginia Smith Murray.
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January 22, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Sarah “Chubby” Burinski, age 35, of Rostraver Twp., passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Penn Highlands Mon Valley Hospital. She was a creative person who enjoyed crafting and decorating for various holidays and events. Born May 19, 1989 in Pittsburgh, she was a daughter of Stanley R. and Susan M. (Verlich) Burinski. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brother, Alex (Jessica Hathaway) Burinski of Rostraver Twp., and aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation and services are private. Memorial contributions may be made to Breakthrough T1D, PO Box 5021, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5021 https://breakthroughT1D.org or RAINN, 1220 L St NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005 https://rainn.org. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
January 21, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Linda K. Hall, a beloved wife, mother, and friend, who left us peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 71. Born on December 24, 1953, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Helen (Lucas) Kilna and the wife of Thomas G. Hall. Linda looked into the world with a warm spirit and a vibrant personality that touched everyone she met.
Having spent her life dedicated to her family, she embraced her role as a homemaker with unwavering love and devotion. Linda's home in Port Vue, Pennsylvania, was a sanctuary filled with laughter, warmth, and the comforting aroma of her favorite meals. She was a nurturing presence, always putting the needs of her loved ones before her own.
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January 21, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Victor Joseph Kelley, age 80, of Virginia Beach, VA, formerly of McKeesport, PA, died on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. He was born on March 28, 1944 and was the son of the late Clair Milton and Mary Agnes Krempasky.
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January 21, 2025 |
By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes

Rodney D. Stokes, 70, of Monroeville, formerly of Glassport, passed away on Monday, January 20th, 2025, at his home. He was born in Beaumont, Texas, to the late Wilburn and Margie Rhodes Stokes. Rodney was the loving husband of 46 years to the late Peggy Ann Lightfoot Stokes. He is survived by his daughter Paige (Kevin) Strasbaugh of Churchill, sister Phyllis (Jim) Berwick of Texas, and grandchild Elliot Strasbaugh, as well as nieces. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Rodney was preceded in death by his son Ryan B. Stokes, brother Ronald Stokes, and several beloved pets. He was a member of the Dravosburg Masonic Lodge #714. Rodney enjoyed riding motorcycles, tending to his garden, and traveling. He also adored being a grandfather. Rodney worked as a mechanic at U.S. Steel Irvin Works for over 30 years. Family and friends will be received on Friday, January 24th, 2025, from 3 P.M.- 6 P.M. at E.C. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 235 Monongahela Ave, Glassport, PA 15045. A service will take place at 6 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com.
January 21, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Virginia M. Glagola, 80, of North Huntingdon, formerly of Clairton, was carried home by her Angel on January 19, 2025, after peacefully spending her final days at her residence surrounded by the love and support of her family. She was born September 17, 1944 in McKeesport, daughter of the late Ann Buric Logesky. Virginia enjoyed crafting, baking, and was an avid seamstress who enjoyed making her children’s clothing. Her children and grandchildren were the focus of her world, as she was selfless, caring, and compassionate, the most beautiful soul. She was formerly employed by Nigro’s Restaurant. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 53 years, George L. Glagola, and sister Joanne Galensky. She is survived by her son George Glagola, daughters Gia Sanders (Jay) and Kristen Wassel, grandchildren Sarah Snyder and Caden Sanders. She is also survived by her brother Joseph (Patricia) Logesky, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. A private memorial service will be held at James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be made to All But Furgotten Animal Shelter. "Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
January 20, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Matthew Robert Gergely, age 45, of McKeesport, PA, died on Sunday, January 19, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 5, 1979, in McKeesport, PA, and is the son of Sofia Lundberg Simile (Steve) of North Versailles, PA and the late Robert Gergely.
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January 20, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

John J. Makel Jr., age 74, of Forward Twp., passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Jefferson Hospital. He retired after more than 30 years as a senior engineer at Carnegie Mellon University. He had a PhD in anthropology and archeology and studied at several universities and in South America. He was a member of Stephen Bayard Masonic Lodge 526 in Elizabeth and loved motorcycles. Born September 30, 1950 in Waynesburg, he was a son of the late John J. Makel Sr. and Lucille (Buday) Makel. He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Carole Schiffman-Makel; sons, Chad (Amanda Dudash) Schiffman of Forward Twp. and Ross Schiffman of Forward Twp.; niece, Ehrin (Bill) Murry of Forward Twp.; great-niece, Abigail Murry; and sister-in-law, Diane Gunther of Carrick. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Friday, January 24, 2025, from 3-7 PM. A Masonic service will be held in the funeral home on Friday at 6:30 PM, followed by a funeral service at 7 PM in the chapel with Rev. Jude Urso officiating. Private burial will take place at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Tunnels to Towers, Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 or ASPCA online at aspca.org. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com
January 20, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Irene C. Alvarez, age 66, of North Versailles, died on January 18, 2025. Born June 23, 1958, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Jean (Magee) Ackerman and wife of the late Domingo Alvarez. Irene dedicated a significant part of her career to healthcare, beginning her journey as a housekeeping supervisor at Baldock Health and then at UPMC McKeesport. She later took on the role of, where her commitment and dedication shone brightly. Her work was not merely a job; it was a profound expression of her caring nature, and it troubled her deeply when illness kept her from doing what she loved. Irene was a vibrant community member and was actively involved with the Moose Lodge in East McKeesport. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: playing bingo, scratching off lottery tickets, and thrill-seeking trips to the casino. Her laughter echoed in the hearts of those who knew her, often accompanied by the sweet sounds of Donny Osmond's music, which she adored. Shopping for deals brought her excitement, exemplifying her spirited personality and love for life. Irene's greatest pride and joy were her family, particularly her beloved daughter, Jodi Anderson, and her devoted mother, Jean Ackerman. She nurtured them with unconditional love and raised them with boundless affection, creating cherished memories that will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
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January 20, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Patsy Ruth (Smith) McGinn, 94, originally from McKeesport, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. She was born on Janury 14, 1931 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late John and Hazel (Rollason) Smith. She was the wife of the late James W. McGinn. She was a long time resident of Liberty Borough where she raised her family. Patsy had worked as a nursing assistant in the operating room of McKeesport Hospital, but her most important career was as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. In her free time, Patsy enjoyed planting flowers, bowling and spending time with her many friends when she was a member of the Elizabeth Township Seniors. She also loved watching the Pirates and Steelers.
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January 20, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Jean P. Minerva, age 80 of Irwin passed away on January 19, 2025. She was born on November 5, 1944 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late James Clugsten and Lois Connell Clugsten. Jean attended Norwin High School and she was a member of Brush Creek Lutheran Church. Jean was a great cook and she always looked forward to hosting family gatherings. She truly cherished the time she spent with her loved ones. Jean was an amazing "wrestling mom" and "wrestling grandma" and she loved to attend her family's sporting events. Most of all, Jean will be remembered for her tremendous concern for others, her amazing sense of humor, her strength, and her devotion to her family - especially her children and her loving husband of 64 years. Jean married Glenn on her 16th birthday and never looked back, proving everyone wrong who dared to doubt the strength of their bond as an ambitious young couple. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by one daughter Carrie Conroy. She is survived by her beloved husband Glenn Minerva, two sons Glenn Jr. (and wife Gina), and Michael Gene, one son-in-law Kevin Conroy, one brother James Clugsten (and wife Christine), grandchildren Heather Conroy (and husband Travis) and Colton Glenn Minerva, one step-granddaughter Jayna Miller (and husband Carl), and one great-grandson Matteo. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 2 PM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Friday at 11 AM with interment to follow in Irwin Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Jean's name to the National Kidney Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
January 20, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Mary Elizabeth Fazek, fondly called Maboo by her friends and family, age 69, of McKeesport, went to be with our Lord and Savior on January 16, 2025. Born July 25, 1955, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Albert A. and Ruth (Bates) Fazek, and adoring wife of Matthew Shaffer.
Mary worked for U.S. Steel National Tube Works and then at Sam's Classic Grille in McKeesport. In addition to her husband, she is survived by a loving son, Joshua Shaffer; precious granddaughter, Leilynn Shaffer; brother, Neil Fazek. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by a brother, Mark Fazek. Mary will always be remembered for the joy that she brought to our lives.
Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Charles Danforth, Supervisor
January 20, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
William A. “Doc” Snyder Sr., age 90, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at home. An Air Force veteran of the Korean War, he retired as an electrician at U.S. Steel Clairton Works. Born September 30, 1934 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late Owen and Ethel (McWhirter) Snyder and husband of the late Barbara (Beattie) Snyder. He is survived by daughter, Sharon L. (Michael Marmo) Ferency of Elizabeth Twp.; grandchildren, DJ (Desiree) Ferency of Monroeville, Luke (Natalie) Megela of Elizabeth, Adam (Jodi) Snyder of West Newton, William (Sarah) Snyder of Pittsburgh, Katie (Guillermo) Mendoza of Arlington, TX and Matthew Snyder of Summerville, SC; great-grandchildren, Kali and Evelyn Megela, Jackson, Grace, William and Emma Snyder, Roxy Reyes and Liam and Lilliana Mendoza; sister, Patsy Opfer of Apollo; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by sons, William A. “Chip” Snyder Jr., Harry R. Snyder and Kurt Christopher; grandson, Michael Snyder; daughters-in-law, Kimmy Haugh and Bobbi Snyder; and sister, Alice Cherepko. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be in the funeral home chapel Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 10 AM. Burial will follow at Round Hill Cemetery in Elizabeth Twp. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
January 20, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Terry N. Merz, age 78 of North Huntingdon, passed away on January 19, 2025. He was born on May 5, 1946 in McKeesport, a son of the late Ted Merz and Ferne Crosier Merz. Terry was a veteran of the United States Navy and also a member of Sampson's Mills Presbyterian Church in White Oak. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a machinist for PDQ Tooling. Terry was a fan of muscle cars and he also loved motorcycles. In addition to his parents, Terry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sharon in 2002. He is survived by his daughter Kristin Gasparovic (and husband Frank), one brother Donald Merz (and wife Linda), grandchildren Chelsey Enciso (and husband Kevin) and Cody Gasparovic, and his great-grandson Myles. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
January 19, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Isabelle Lynn Steinhart, 83, formerly of Coal Township, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, in St. Clair Hospital, Mt. Lebanon. Isabelle was born on July 27, 1941, in Kulpmont, to the late Lawrence and Marie (Luchnick) Dooley. She was married to the late Ernest (Punch) Steinhart on June 3, 1961 for 59 years.
Isabelle was a loving mother to her two children as a housewife and later in life worked as a real estate agent and a bartender.
She loved spending time with her family especially the summer months around her pool watching her grandchildren laugh and just have fun. She also had many fond memories in Ocean City Maryland, Knoebels, and time with her sister Kitty. Her other love was all the dogs that she and Punch enjoyed. Many people saw the dog walking her at Knoebels weekly and the joy that they had with them on their long car rides.
Isabelle is survived by her children Dr. Ernest (Paula) Steinhart and Dr. LoriAnn (Dr. John) Cicchini; seven grandchildren: Dr. Deanna, Leah, Grace, Madeline, and Jaheim Steinhart and Sydney and Brady Cicchini; and her sisters Kathryn “Kitty” (Robert “Uncle Bob”) Kelly and Marie (the late William) Hogarty.
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