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Wayne A. Paxon, Jr.

June 19, 2024 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Wayne A. Paxon, Jr., age 75, of McKeesport, died June 15, 2024, at AHN Forbes Hospital.  Born February 13, 1949, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Wayne Sr. and Rose (Topolnak) Paxon.

Wayne made an indelible mark on those around him with his unwavering commitment to his work as an exterminator and his brave service as an Army Veteran.  Those who knew Wayne remember him as a man of resilience and camaraderie, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.  Whether honing his skills at the pool table with his dearest sister or engaging in friendly competition at family gatherings pitching horseshoes and playing cards, Wayne's laughter and warmth were ever present, making each moment spent in his company a cherished memory.

 
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Joni S. Russell

June 18, 2024 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Joni S. Russell, age 68, of West Newton, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024, in Excela Health System-Westmoreland Hospital. Born in McKeesport on October 22, 1955, she was the daughter of the late John J. and late Mary R. (Kapcin) Seman.

She was a graduate of West Mifflin High School-Class of 1973. She was employed at U.S. Steel-Homestead as one of the first female crane operators. After the layoff at U.S. Steel, she went to college to pursue a career in social services. She worked at Turtle Creek MH & MR and also did rehabilitation training at Goodwill Industries and United Cerebral Palsy. She also worked and retired as the seafood manager for Giant Eagle in North Huntingdon. Her true passion and love was animals. She put her talent to use at Fallen Timber Animal Shelter in Elizabeth, PA. Joni seemed to attract many dogs who were truly sick or unwanted and magically rejuvenated them so they could live a happy life in her care. Joni will be terribly missed by her pets-Curtis, Elka, Duke, Deja and Tater and also leaving 2 African Grey birds, Grady and Tapa.

Joni was the wife of the late James R. Russell; significant other of Edward Rogers; step mom of Kevin Rogers of Greensburg; sister of John P. (Lavon) Seman of Plum Boro, Janet T. Seman of North Huntingdon, Steven (Marybeth) Seman of West Mifflin and late Sharon Holland; aunt to Megan R. Seman of Monroeville, Jonathon Seman of Defiance, OH, Robert Lochner of Pittsburgh, Shawn and David Holland; sister-in-law of Deb (Scott) Kozel. She is also survived by numerous cousins.

There is no visitation. Arrangements entrusted to the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR. A memorial service will be held at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to All But Furgotten or Pet Friends of Irwin.

Joni, you are now in heaven at the picnic table, including your pets who have gone before you. Some day we will join you. Save us a seat.

 


Woodrow Maurin

June 18, 2024 |

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

Woodrow Maurin, 85, died June 16, 2024, at AHN Jefferson Hospital. Born December 16, 1938, in Nyack, NY, he was the son of the late John Maurin and Chloe (Zeiller) Maurin, and the husband of Shirley Maurin.

 
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Judith Ann Slowaitis

June 18, 2024 |

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

Judith Ann "Judy" (Hixenbaugh) Slowaitis, age 82, of Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024 at home. She used to crochet lap blankets for the ambulance service and Kane Nursing Center in McKeesport. She loved playing cards and was part of the Senior Citizens Euchre Club. Born January 3, 1942 in Elizabeth, she was a daughter of the late Kenneth and Margaret (Drabick) Hixenbaugh. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, William C. Slowaitis; children, Shirl (Rich) Fleischauer of Grove City, OH, Joan (Randy) Venanzi of Monongahela and Joseph H. Rush of Elizabeth; grandchildren, Jason (Erin) Fleischauer, Sonja (Travis) Bye, William Joseph Debevec III, Trevor (Jillian) Debevec, Joseph H. (Tabitha) Rush Jr., Jessica (Jeff) Duck, Westley (Kim) Rush, William Joseph Debevec III and Trevor (Jillian) Debevec; great-grandchildren, Leo, Amelia, Samuel, William, Joseph H. III, McKenna, Jackson, Alyssa, Landyn and Noah; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Charles and Ronald Hixenbaugh. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A blessing will take place on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 10 AM in the funeral home with the Rev. Thomas J. Burke officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Scott W. "GQ" Fouser

June 18, 2024 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Scott W. “GQ” Fouser, age 59, of Dravosburg, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in UPMC Shadyside. Born in McKeesport on November 5, 1964, he was the son of the late Kenneth and Patricia J. (Smith) Fouser. He was a retired certified nurses’ aide and enjoyed fishing, video games, and music. Scott is the father of Andrew (Alyssa) Fouser of Huntingdon, PA; grandfather of Mathias Fouser and Illiya Fouser; and brother of Robert (Jane Ann) Fouser of Dravosburg, Kenneth Fouser of Bedford, Jack (Judy) Fouser of West Mifflin, Jill (late Al) Ernst of West Mifflin, Kathy (John) Armstrong and David (Karen) Fouser of Xenia, OH. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 2-6 p.m., at the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR, where a Funeral Service will be held at 5:30 p.m., during visitation, on Thursday, June 20, with Pastor Jeff Lukacs officiating.

 


Deborah Ann “Debbie” (Brannigan) Brashear

June 18, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Deborah Ann “Debbie” (Brannigan) Brashear, 64, of North Huntingdon, died June 6, 2024. She was born August 12, 1959 in McKeesport a daughter of the late Joseph Patrick and Patricia Jean (Chametts) Brannigan. She is survived by her daughter Stephanie Marie Yorty and her husband William of North Huntingdon; her grandchildren Clayton and Kinsley; and a sister Theresa Brannigan. Debbie worked for many years in accounting for Baker Hughes Company and also had worked at LA Fitness. She enjoyed spending time with her daughter and grandkids, watching the Hallmark Channel and crocheting. Friends will be received from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday June 10, at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main St., Irwin, where a Blessing Service will follow at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to the American Stroke Association. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

 


Donisha Janeen Bryan-Franklin

June 18, 2024 |

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

Donisha Janeen Bryan-Franklin, 45, of Pittsburgh, was born December 21, 1978, in McKeesport, PA. She was the beloved daughter of the late Arthur and Stephanie Williams Bryan-Franklin.

Donisha departed this life on June 4, 2024, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital in McKeesport, PA. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, and sister, Mary Howard. 

Donisha graduated from McKeesport High School class of 1997 with high honors. She also went to college for 1 year to study computer technology. Her job career started with the Peer Group on 5th Avenue located in McKeesport, PA where she worked for many years until the center closed. She then moved to the Swissvale area where she pursued employment in childcare for a few years. Donisha’s current job was still involved working with children. That is how much compassion she had and loved helping them. When she parted ways, she was working at the Professional Limousine Service as a school bus driver, and she was very content and happy working there.

 
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Haywood James Swindle

June 18, 2024 |

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

Haywood James Swindle, 72 of McKeesport was born on April 1, 1952, in McKeesport, Pa quietly passed away on June 1, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Simon Swindle and Mattie (Bray) Swindle his brother Atheen Abudl Rabb, and sister Evelyn Joyce Brown.

He was a graduate of McKeesport Area High School. After graduation, he worked for many years at Bettis Atomic Laboratory, Greengrocer, and American Textile Company. Wood was an avid sports fan and loved the Dallas Cowboys, watching drag racing, car shows, and golf.

 
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David Cifone

June 18, 2024 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Alfieri Funeral Home

David Cifone, of North Versailles, formerly of Clearwater, Fl, passed on June 10, 2024, at the age of 73. David was the son of the late Anthony and late Edna (Coletta) Cifone.

He is survived by his brother, Robert (Christine) Cifone and numerous nieces and nephews. In additions to his parents, David was preceded in passing by his brothers, James and Jack Cifone.

David lived in Clearwater, Florida for numerous years. He was a proud U.S. Airforce Veteran, who served his country during the Vietnam War. David was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

 
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Shanita D. Cash-Daviston

June 18, 2024 |

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

Shanita D. Cash-Daviston, 45, of McKeesport, departed this Earth on May 27, 2024, at her home in McKeesport. She was born July 25, 1978, to Corey Cash and the late Deborah (Kirby) Houston.

Shanita attended and graduated from McKeesport High School, class of 1997. After graduating from high school she went to school for medical billing and coding. Shanita worked at various places but was currently employed at Family Links as a counselor. Helping people is what she did best; she would give you the shirt off her back.

Shanita loved her children and family. She was always there for everyone when needed. Her heart was pure so her kindness and love also extended beyond her immediate family. Extended family and friends also received Shanita’s love and support. Besides enjoying life with family and friends Shanita was a Steeler girl for life. Whether it's celebrating a birthday, enjoying a holiday, or watching football, you were guaranteed a great time if Shanita was present.

 
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Edward T. Whitaker

June 18, 2024 |

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

Edward T. Whitaker, 80, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, was born July 4, 1943, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. He was the beloved son of the late William Whitaker, Jr., and Laura B. Lacey Whitaker.

Edward graduated from McKeesport High School. He also received a bachelor’s degree. Edward was enlisted into the United States Air Force on May 11, 1964, through May 03, 1968. His last employment was as the Director of Admissions at the Penn State Campus.

 
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Kevin L. Sisley

June 17, 2024 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Kevin L. Sisley, age 63, beloved husband and dedicated police officer, passed away on June 14, 2024, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Born in McKeesport, PA on November 26, 1960, he was the son of the late Leonard and Rose (Salopek) Sisley and the husband of Marsha (Zielinski) Sisley.

Kevin was a proud member of the law enforcement community, serving as a Sergeant at UPMC McKeesport Hospital and also as a Lincoln Borough Municipal Officer. His commitment to protecting and serving his community was unwavering.

 
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Sandra J. Martinelli

June 17, 2024 |

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

Sandra J. (Snyder) Martinelli, age 80, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2024 at home. She was a wonderful wife, mother, friend, neighbor, babysitter, mother-in-law and grandmother. She worked the election polls, loved cooking, flowers and gardening, and enjoyed crafting and working with ceramics. Born October 28, 1943 in West Elizabeth, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Faye (Askey) Snyder. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Frank E.  Martinelli; children, Frank (Laura) Martinelli of Elizabeth and Lisa Martinelli Reed of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren, Morgan, Caleb and Tre Turner; brothers-in-law, Glenn Bowers and Perry (Nancy) Martinelli; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by grandson, Eugene Turner III, and sisters, Judy (Harold) Armstrong and Donna Bowers. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 9:30 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Jeff Riker officiating. Burial will follow in West Newton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Elizabeth Baptist Church, 735 Bunola River Road, Elizabeth, PA 15037. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Richard A. Perhats

June 17, 2024 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Richard A. Perhats, age 86, of Port Vue, formerly of Duquesne died June 15, 2024. Born March 23, 1938, in Bellvue, he was a son of the late Helen (Perhats) Ondike, and the husband of the late Margaret J. Perhats, for 54 years.

Richard worked for over 30 years for Long's Hauling Company and was a member of St. Eugene Church - St. Joachim and Anne Parish. In his later years, Richard found a passion for buying and selling at the flea market, and also collecting coins and different antiques. He also enjoyed spending time at the beach, fishing, gardening, reading the newspaper and cherished walking his loyal pet dog, Corkey.

 
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Patricia A. Curinga

June 17, 2024 |

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

Patricia A. Curinga, beloved wife of Guy A. Curinga, Jr., passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at age 77.  In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter Natalie (Rob) Kania; grandchildren Robbie, Luke, Julia and Gianna; brother Regis (Debra) Straka; sisters and brothers-in-law; nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents John J. Straka Sr. and Rose (Grunsky) Straka and several brothers and sisters. 

 
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