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Janet Brown Blaho

January 26, 2024 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Janet Brown (Griffiths) Blaho, 92, of Redstone Highlands, Greensburg campus, formerly of Elizabeth Township, passed away Friday, January 26, 2024 with her family by her side.  She was born July 5, 1931 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Effie (McCleary) Griffiths. Janet was a 1949 graduate of McKeesport High School and 1953 graduate of Carnegie Mellon University known as Carnegie Institute of Technology. She elected to leave working in the big city of Pittsburgh to work closer to home for Equibank as a safe deposit and bank teller for years in McKeesport and Clairton.  She was a published as a ghost writer for the Daily News providing young potential homeowners tips on banking opportunities and investments to help gain financial security.  She was an active member, Sunday school teacher, and treasurer of the United Methodist Church of Boston.  Additionally, she was Past Worthy High Priestess of the Order of The Eastern Star and Past Matron of Eastern Star Order of the Westmoreland White Shrine of Jerusalem NO. 18. Janet loved to travel, see shows, visit family, be active, and spend time with her neighbors, friends, and family as much as possible.  She will be remembered by her involvement of her church family, Salvation Army ringing of the bells on cold winter days, Christmas gathering of gifts for so many families, her playground house of swimming and kindness, along with her Redstone family playing kings in the corner and world affair discussions.  The highlight of her life was being an avid Steelers ticket holder who shared many games together with her husband and grandchildren, and brothers, saying "We had them all the way". 

 
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Daniel E. Ference

January 26, 2024 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Daniel Edward Ference, 71, of Glassport, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Jefferson Hospital. Born November 15, 1952, he was the son of the late Edward and Marie Ference. Daniel is survived by his wife of 44 years, Margie (Roberts) Ference. Dan was a member of Saints Joachim and Anne Parish, the Elizabeth Township Gun Club, and a member of the Glassport Senior Center where he loved to do his chair exercises, play bingo, and socialize. He was passionate about military history, enjoyed building models, and visiting Civil War re-enactments and military battlegrounds. Dan played guitar in a polka band called the “Hollidays” in the 1970s. He continued that love of music and playing his guitar brought him joy. Dan received his Bachelor’s of Industrial Arts and Masters of Computer Science from California University of Pennsylvania. He was a professor at Community College of Allegheny County – South Campus for 44 years. He leaves behind a loving family including two sons, Daniel E. Ference Jr., daughter-in-law Erin and grandchildren Joshua, Natalie and Nicholas with whom he loved spending time playing card games and visiting Disney, and David M. Ference of Midlothian, TX, daughter-in-law, Linda and granddaughter Elizabeth, with whom watching Scooby-Doo was their favorite thing to do. He is also survived by siblings, Thomas (Lori) Ference of Finleyville, Robert (Amy) Ference of Rostraver and Diane Ference of Jefferson Hills; also, nieces and nephews. Rita Croyle of Rostraver is a special cousin with whom he grew up. The family would like to give thanks for the kind and compassionate care that was given in our time of need. We are forever grateful. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Sunday, January 28, 2024 from 12 Noon until the time of a blessing service at 3 PM with the Rev. Thomas Burke and sister-in-law Nancy Holliday officiating. A private internment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Glassport Senior Center, 544 Monongahela Avenue, Glassport, PA 15045. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


James A. Vertullo

January 25, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Jefferson Memorial Cemetery Funeral Home

James A. Vertullo, of Pittsburgh, passed at St. Clair Hospital on Thursday, January 25, 2024 after a long-term illness. He passed peacefully with love and support from his family.

Jim is survived by his son, James A. Vertullo Jr., who cared for him at home for several years; daughter Jennifer R. Vertullo of McKeesport; grandchildren Magdalena Bowie Koisor and Logan Margliotti; siblings David A. (Kathy) Vertullo MD. of Scottsdale, AZ, Robert A. (Linda) Vertullo of Adams Township, and Susan M. Vertullo of Virginia Beach; and nieces and nephews. And, of course, his madcap pup Freya. He was preceded in death by parents Carmen L. Vertullo and Esther Pace Vertullo.

Jim was a proud 1971 graduate of Central Catholic High School, attended Robert Morris College, and graduated from Duquesne University in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education. Upon graduation, he worked in environmental services management and chemical sales for medical and institutional facilities.

Jim raised his family in Downingtown and South Park Township, where he helped to coach youth baseball. He was an avid football fan in adulthood and a proudly aggressive player in his youth.

 
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Donald Taylor

January 25, 2024 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Donald Taylor, age 92, of Elizabeth Twp., formerly of Clairton, passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Jefferson Hospital. He was a member of Central Highlands Community United Methodist Church in Elizabeth Twp. An educator for more than 30 years, he was a former Clairton High School History teacher and former chairman of Social Sciences at Community College of Allegheny County, South Campus. He was a great softball player and played first base for several mill and church leagues. He was a devoted husband and loving father. Born April 16, 1931 in Cambridge, Ohio, he was a son of the late Carl and Margaret (Davis) Taylor. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Bette Lou (Percy) Taylor; children, Holly (Dan Nickerson) Taylor of Limerick and Scott Taylor of Clairton; grandchildren, Devon Langston of Tampa, FL and Ryann Gephart of Limerick; also, nieces. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother, Edward Taylor. No visitation or services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to CCAC Educational Foundation, Scholarships, CCAC Educational Foundation, Byers Hall Room 102, 808 Ridge Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Please note on “For” line Donald Taylor Scholarship. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Agnes M. Dluhy

January 25, 2024 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Agnes M. Dluhy, age 93, of McKeesport PA, passed away peacefully in her sleep with her devoted husband and son by her side on January 24, 2024, at the John J. Kane Regional Center - McKeesport.  Born June 29, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Caroline (D’Angelo) and Dominic Chiaverini. She was the loving wife of Charles T. Dluhy for over 65 years.

 
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Lauren R. Cousins

January 25, 2024 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Lauren R. Cousins, age 94 of Monroeville, died Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at LGAR Health and Rehabilitation, Turtle Creek. He was born February 23, 1929 in Sharon, PA, a son of the late John and Edna (Anderson) Cousins. Lauren was an active member of the Norwin Church of the Nazarene. He graduated from Mercer High School, Grove City College, and received an honorary doctorate from Eastern Nazarene College where he served as a trustee for 32 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wives Alberta in 1956 and June in 2010, brother John, sisters Patricia and Donna Lou. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Surviving are his, three sons, Douglas and his wife Joyce, David, Dennis and his wife Cassy, one daughter Laurene Timmons, eight grandchildren, Heather Drolet (James), Jennifer Magnuson (Ryan), Anna Warheit (Brent), Michael Timmons (Tina), Jonathan Timmons (Erin), Matthew Timmons (Brianna), Shane Anderson, and Lucy Anderson; twelve great grandchildren, Perrin, Mercy, Declan, Owen, Luna, Chauncey, Clara, Georgia, Ryan, Eden, Peyton, Maverick, and two on the way. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Friday 3-7 PM. A funeral service will be held Saturday at 10:30 AM at the funeral home followed by interment at Twin Valley Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (ncm.org) and Jesus Film Harvest Partners (jfhp.org).

 
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Mary Kay Oliverio

January 25, 2024 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Mary Kay (Olasin) Oliverio, age 73 of McKeesport, passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 in Transitions of North Huntingdon.  Born January 19, 1951 in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Grace (Naugle) Olasin.  Mary Kay attended Point Park College and went on to work as a social worker for ARC Allegheny and Achieva, both in Pittsburgh.  After retiring she worked as a pet sitter.  Mary Kay was a member of Corpus Christi Church (Mary, Mother of God Parish) in McKeesport and the ASPCA.  She often supported the Humane Society, The World Wildlife Federation, and Wounded Warrior Project.  Mary Kay will always be remembered as a God-loving person, exceedingly caring, and most of all: a loving mother, sister, and wonderful grandmother. 

 
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Joseph C. Gregory, Jr.

January 24, 2024 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Joseph C. Gregory, Jr., 78, of Elizabeth Township, formerly of Los Angeles, CA, passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at home.  He was born October 10, 1945 in Brownsville and was the son of the late Joseph C. Gregory, Sr. and Anna M. (Petrick) Gregory. Joseph was a US NAVY Veteran, who served during the Vietnam conflict.  Upon his completion of his military service, Joseph worked in marketing while living in Los Angeles, before returning back to Pennsylvania later in life.  He was an avid basketball fan, who loved to play pick up games in his younger years and watch basketball games. His favorite teams were The Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and The UCLA Bruins. Joseph loved watching all sports, as well. He loved his family, especially his sister, nieces, nephews and great-nieces. He will be greatly missed.  

 
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Lois Shirley Schwartz

January 24, 2024 |

By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Lois Shirley Schwartz, age 92, of McKeesport, PA, died on Saturday, January 20, 2024. She was born in McKeesport, PA on July 15, 1931 and was the daughter of the late Harry P. and Tillie Cohen Samuels. She was the wife of the late Donald Schwartz. In addition to her parents and husband, Lois was preceded in death by her siblings, Leroy Samuels, and Beverly Samuels Uram.

 
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Edward J. Andrison

January 24, 2024 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Edward John Andrison, age 53, of North Huntingdon, passed away on January 22, 2024. Born December 30, 1970, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of Edith (Chappell) Andrison and the late John Andrison, Sr.

 
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Antonio “Romo” Smith

January 23, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Antonio “Romo” Smith, 27, of McKeesport, was born January 12, 1997, in McKeesport, PA. He was the beloved son of Anthony Smith and Tirra McKinnon. Antonio was commonly known as “Bro” by his close friends and family.

Antonio grew up in McKeesport. He attended and graduated from McKeesport High School in 2016. After graduation, he fell in love with music and began writing his own music.

Antonio enjoyed dancing, making people smile, playing PS5, traveling, and spending time at the casino betting on sports. Antonio was a devoted fan of The Pittsburgh Steelers. He was always known as a jokester. Antonio loved money. He displayed his love for money by showcasing one-of-a-kind shoes and being a trendsetter with his attire that was always sure to turn heads. But what he loved most in this world was his daughter, Alonah. Antonio’s dream was to have a family that he created.

Antonio departed this life on January 12, 2024, in Pittsburgh, PA. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Raedena McKinnon; grandfather, Robert Smith and brothers Anthony & Anthon Smith.

Antonio is survived by his beloved parents, Anthony Smith & Tirra McKinnon, daughter, Alonah Smith; sisters, Ashley & Alea Smith; brothers, Shawn Robinson, Jason Martin, Jace & Dallas Scott; grandmother, Regina Smith; Godbrothers: Kilontae Fisher, Jayvon Germany, and Andre Berry; nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends. Bro was loved by many, and many were loved by Bro.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Antonio Dawon ("Bro") Smith, please visit our floral store.

 
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Geraldine "Gerry" K. Bellis

January 23, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Geraldine "Gerry" K. Bellis, 93, of North Versailles, passed away peacefully Friday, January 19, 2024 at home surrounded by her family. She was born September 4, 1930 in Braddock, a daughter of the late John and Mary (Sopko) Kuzma and was also preceded in death by her husband William R. Bellis and a sister Irene Colaric. Gerry was a graduate of Scott High School, North Braddock, then worked for Bell Telephone for many years. She was a member of Mary Mother of God Parish, St. Robert Bellarmine Church, East McKeesport where she worked as a teacher’s aide for 16 years and volunteered for the church and summer festivals. Gerry was a faithful and devout Catholic who believed in the power of prayer. She was a longtime member of the St. Robert Bellarmine prayer chain. She loved to cook and bake for her family, especially birthdays and holidays. She took great pleasure in making birthday cakes for her sons and daughter and nieces and nephews. She was known for her wonderful 4th of July and Thanksgiving holidays at her house. She was the loving mother of William G. (Kathleen) Bellis of North Huntingdon and Mark A. Bellis, Paul E. Bellis and Christine L. Bellis all of North Versailles; cherished grandmother of William R. and Rebecca M. Bellis; and loving aunt to many nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan 23, and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan 24, at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway Ave., East McKeesport, 412-823-8083. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan 25, in St. Angela Merici Church, White Oak. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, North Versailles. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to Catholic Charities at ccpgh.org. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

 


Mildred J. Bobuk

January 23, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Mildred J. Bobuk, 65, of West Mifflin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 14, 2024. She was born April 17, 1958 in McKeesport, the daughter of the late John and Bertha (Capner) Dvorsky. Mildred enjoyed cooking, and was an animal lover. She had a very caring personality and was a devoted mother and grandmother. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Gregory Bobuk. She is survived by her children Jessica Bobuk (Joshua Pitz) of West Mifflin, Kendra (Andrew) Rosner of Delaware, Theodore “T. J.” (Kelsey) Bobuk of West Mifflin, and Nicholas Bobuk (fiancé Megan Seeman) of West Mifflin; grandchildren Madilyn Pitz, Connor Rosner, and Mackenzie Rosner; also nieces and nephews. Friends and family will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway Avenue, East McKeesport, 412-823-8083. A memorial service will be held at 8 p.m. Thursday, in the funeral home. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

 


David “Scott” Beveridge

January 23, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Deaths Elsewhere

David "Scott" Beveridge, 67, of Webster, passed away peacefully after a brief illness Friday, January 12, 2024, surrounded by family and friends, in Penn Highlands Mon Valley Hospital. Born in North Charleroi August 31, 1956, he was a son of the late James Robert and June Hart Beveridge. Scott was best known as a journalist and photographer for the Observer-Reporter, where he covered breaking news for over 30 years in the Mon Valley, and Washington and Greene counties. Scott's work has been featured in multiple publications including U.S. News & World Report, the Seattle Times, and the Washington Times. He has been recognized as one of the finest local columnists or reporters by the Pennsylvania Associated Press, and the Professional Keystone Press, along with receiving Golden Quill and other journalism awards. In 2004, Scott traveled to Vietnam as a temporary correspondent working under a prestigious World Affairs Journalism Fellowship. Scott earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1978 and a Master of Arts at Duquesne University in 2005. He was passionate about promoting the work of other journalists and aspiring young writers along with contributing to his blog, "Travel with a Beveridge". Scott loved to travel, hang out with his friends, watch foreign films, and enjoy a hoppy IPA. He is survived by his brothers, James L. Beveridge of Dallas, Texas and Glen Kelly (Charity) Beveridge of Pittsburgh; beloved aunts, Shirley Hart Rozik of Greensburg and Bonnie Hart Rozik of Belle Vernon; nieces and nephews, Casey (Jerrod), Shannon, Dillon, Tori, Kami (Nicholas), Kyle, and Kenzie; close friends, Mary Leitao and Mike Jones; and numerous cousins. To honor Scott's wishes, there will be no public viewing or service. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the James C. Stump Funeral Home Inc., 580 Circle Drive, Rostraver Township (724-929-7934) www.jamesstumpfuneralhome.com The family suggests contributions, in Scott's memory, to the Washington County Community Foundation at www.wccf.net

 


Harry Thomas Stoker

January 23, 2024 |

By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes

 

Harry T Stoker (Tom), born on April 25, 1941, in Pittsburgh, PA, peacefully passed away on January 22, 2024, at Jefferson Hospital. He was surrounded by his loving family and the warm embrace of the memories they shared. Tom was born to the late Eunice and Harry Stoker, alongside his sister, Starr Burkhurt, who preceded him in death. Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Beverly, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Together, they created a beautiful family and shared countless cherished memories. He leaves behind a legacy that will forever be treasured by his children: Kelly Stoker of Port Vue, Darla (Kenneth) Losteter of Glassport, Lora Hess of West Mifflin, James (Ronna) Patton of Jefferson Hills, and Roy (Kaycie) Patton of Forward Twp. Tom was also a loving brother to Linda Mayou of Warren County. Tom was a dedicated and hardworking individual, retiring after 50 years of service from Carpenters Combined Local 1759 Floor Coverers. His commitment to his craft was evident in the quality of his work. He was respected by his colleagues and admired for his work ethic. In his spare time, Tom had several passions that brought joy to his life. He loved vacationing in Ontario, Canada, where he found solace in the tranquility of nature. As a passionate hunter and fisherman, he experienced the thrill of the chase and the serenity of the water. Tom was a member of the Mon Valley Reptile Club and took part in various rattlesnake rangling competitions. His skill and passion for the sport were admired by all who knew him. Despite his busy schedule, Tom always made time for his family and his beloved dogs, Rosie, Luna, and Herby. He adored his 15 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and nieces who brought immeasurable happiness to his life. Tom's love for his family knew no bounds, and his presence will be deeply missed by each and every one of them. Throughout his life, Tom was an active member of several organizations, including the Clairton Sportsman's Club, Willock Social Club, and Moose Social Club. His involvement and dedication to these organizations showcased his commitment to enriching the lives of those around him. Harry T Stoker will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, a cherished grandfather, and a loyal friend. His presence brought light into the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. Family and friends will be received on Thursday, January 25th, 2024 at S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025 from 2 P.M. - 4 P.M. and 6 P.M – 8 P.M. A celebration of Tom's life will be held at St. Joachim and Anne Parish (Queen of the Rosary Church) in Glassport PA. on Friday, January 26th, 2024 at 10 A.M. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and share stories of joy and laughter that they shared with Tom. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com