Gwen C. Lang
February 17, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
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.
Laura A. Louden, age 85, of McKeesport, died on January 4, 2025, at AHN Forbes Hospital. Born September 12, 1939, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Elmer and Edith (Harbert) Clark and wife of the late Walter J. Louden. For many years, Laura was a waitress at Woody's, where her friendly demeanor and genuine interactions created a welcoming atmosphere for customers and colleagues alike. A former member of the Beulah Park United Methodist Church in McKeesport, Laura found solace and connection within her faith community, embodying the values of love and compassion. As a devoted softball mom and wife, Laura was actively involved with the White Oak Athletic Association, supporting her children's athletic endeavors with enthusiasm and pride. Her commitment extended beyond sports; she cherished the joy of socializing and entertaining, often bringing friends and family together to share laughter and create memories. Laura had a passion for life's simple pleasures. She delighted in watching TV soaps, tackling crossword puzzles, and engaging in spirited games with her card club. Her love for music was evident in her enthusiastic dancing, especially when it came to the jitterbug and the classic oldies that she so adored.
