December 29, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Sarah Rybarczyk, age 96, of McKeesport, died December 28, 2025, at LGAR Health and Rehabilitation Center. Born May 11, 1929, in Monongahela, she was the daughter of the late Stven and Sophie (Davis) Plopi and wife of the late John Rybarczyk. Sarah lived a full and vibrant life, filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. She had a zest for life that took her on many enjoyable trips to the casino, where she delighted in the thrill of the game and the joy of the buffet, her favorite indulgence. But nothing brought her greater joy than the time spent with her family and friends. She loved them, and they loved her. Known for her culinary skills, Sarah will always be remembered for her delicious potato pancakes and hearty beef stew. These dishes, made with love, brought people together and exemplified her nurturing spirit. Her family and friends gathered around her table, creating memories that they will treasure forever.
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December 29, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Russel E. "Skip" Gill, 82, of West Mifflin, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025. He was born July 15, 1943 in West Mifflin and was the son of the late Ernest and Mildred (Sayre) Gill. He was the husband of 40 years to the late Mary Lou (Pietzak) Gill, who passed away November 13, 2011. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, Skip served during the Vietnam War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal in recognition of his service. Skip attended Saints Joachim and Ann Parish and was a member of the former Holy Spirit Church in West Mifflin. He retired after 30 years of service as an assistant roller at U.S. Steel Irvin Works. Following retirement, he continued working alongside his family at his son’s business, Steel City TV and Appliance Repair, where he served as both a technician and in administration. He was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Skip was deeply involved in his sons’ lives, coaching them in wrestling, baseball, and football. He was wild and tough, with a great sense of humor, and was known for being very funny. Though he had a tough exterior, Skip was a loving and compassionate man who cherished his family dearly-especially his grandchildren. He lived by his favorite expression: “I work hard, so I can play hard.” He will be greatly missed.
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December 29, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Keisha Danielle Fortner-McKamey, age 45, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025. She was born on May 5, 1980, to James Fortner Sr. and Teresa Fortner in Chicago, Illinois, where she spent the first several years of her life. At the age of seven, Keisha moved to Pennsylvania with her parents and her younger sister. Throughout her childhood, her family lived in several apartment communities, where Keisha formed friendships that would last a lifetime.
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December 29, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Brian Eugene Stumpf, age 66, of McKeesport, PA, died on Monday, December 29, 2025. He was born in Elmora, PA on November 16, 1959, and was the son of the late Kenneth, Sr. and Constance Mothersbaugh Stumpf.
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December 29, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
William S. Theiss, age 70, of Jefferson Hills, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025. Born November 25, 1955, in McKeesport, PA, he was a son of the late William and Alice (Kennet) Theiss. William formerly worked as an Operator at Clairton Works, from which he retired, and later was employed by the West Jefferson Hills School District. He was a member of VFW Post 803 and the National Rifle Association, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He is survived by his wife, Debra (Gilmore) Theiss; sons, William (Kelly) Theiss of Jefferson Hills, PA, and J.T. (Jaclyn) Thomas of Jefferson Hills, PA; his grandchildren Landon Theiss, Kiptyn Theiss, and Clara Renee Thomas; brothers, Thomas (Sherry) Theiss of Penn, PA, and David Theiss of New Ringgold, PA; sister, Shirley (Carl) Klinzing of South Park, PA; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by sisters, Patricia Belback, Marcia Theiss, and Stephanie Lasich.
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December 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Eric Joseph Francis, 61, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 18, 1964, to Gert Pfefferkorn, Eric was raised in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, before moving to Michigan, where he raised his family. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Eric carried his sense of duty into his civilian career. He held a career for over 30 years as a lineman for DTE, he was a dedicated union member with IBEW Local 17, where he served as a representative, steward, and treasurer. He was also an active member of his local Elks Lodge. Eric was a man who found joy in his hobbies and the world around him. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his loyal dog, Bear. An avid outdoorsman, he hunted, fished, and enjoyed time on his boat, Grace. He enjoyed capturing memories through photos and had a deep soul for music; he lived through his songs and loved playing his guitar. At home, he was known for his skills in cast iron cooking. Eric’s life was guided by his faith. He spent much of his time reading his Bible and found particular strength in his favorite verse, Isaiah 6:8: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’" Eric’s greatest pride was his family.
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December 26, 2025 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Mary Ann Viselli
Age 52, of Penn Hills, formerly of Rankin, went peacefully into eternal life on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Beloved daughter of the late Amedeo and Anna Viselli; dearest niece to late Antoinette "Tony" Viselli, late Nunzio Valletta (Italy), late Guido Valletta (Michela ‘Lia) (Italy), and Teresa Valletta (France). Also survived by cousins Antonio and Luigi Valletta (Italy) and Serge, Joel (Haja), and Yves Scappaticci (France) and many dear friends. Mary Ann was a joy to all her family and friends. All are welcome to a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, December 30th at 12:00 p.m., at St. Maurice Church, Forest Hills. Entombment will follow at Calvary Mausoleum, Pittsburgh.
Arrangements entrusted to MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., (412-466-3300), 915 Kennedy Ave., Duquesne, PA., William B. Schleifer, Supervisor, William Brian Schleifer and Allan J. Weber Funeral Directors.
In lieu of memorials, the family requests Masses be said in her name. The family would also like to thank the many caregivers who provided love and support over the years.
December 26, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Cynthia Ann Kukulka, age 73, of Elizbeth Twp., passed away Thursday, December 25, 2025 at home. She was a former member of Elizabeth United Methodist Church. Born May 24, 1952, she was a daughter of the late Elmer and Elizabeth (Kostura) Furst. She is survived by her children, Marsha Kukulka of McKeesport, Wendy Dziadyk of Jefferson Hills and Jesse Gilbert of Maryland; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary (Curt) Briggs of Elizabeth, Karen Goreck of West Mifflin, Nancy Lee Furst of Elizabeth and Pam (Don) Pishney of Greenock; brothers, Elmer F. (Katie) Furst Jr. of Dunbar and John (Karen) Furst of Scottdale; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, Deborah Donnelly, Joyce Jones, Audrey McGinn and Francis Furst. The family offers special thanks and gratitude to her caregivers, Edna, Marcell, Iman, Theresa and Ashley, and her Family Hospice team, Tracy, Shanae and Emily. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 4-8 PM. Service with the Rev. Bill Little officiating and burial are private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Southeast Regional EMS, 911 Swiss Way, Elizabeth, PA 15037 or UPMC Family Hospice, 300 Northpointe Circle, Suite 305, Seven Fields, PA 16046. Offer condolences at http://www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
December 26, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Helen J. Taylor, 79, of Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of Boston, PA, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was born March 25, 1946 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Samuel and Helen J. (Andersen) Case. Helen was the wife of 43 years to the late Robert Elliott Taylor, who passed away October 19, 2014. Helen was a homemaker, but she helped her late husband on many home remodels through the years. She had an infectious laugh that could light up every room she was in and a great sense of humor. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Las Vegas and Arizona. She lived in the Boston and Lincoln Borough most of her life, with a few stays in Florida and finally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Helen loved her family dearly, She was a loving mother and grandmother, who was caring and showed endless support for her family, she was the grandmother that every child should have. She will be greatly missed.
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December 25, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Frances Marion Caputo, age 93 of Greensburg, formerly of North Huntingdon pass away on December 24, 2025, at the Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Greensburg. She was born on December 10, 1932, in Turtle Creek, a beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Minnie Palmer Sage. Frances was the devoted wife of 66 plus years to Louis P. Caputo, who preceded her in death in July 2022. Frances was a loving and devoted mother to her children, Laurin Ann Colner (Greg) and James Louis Caputo, and a proud grandmother to Matthew Gregory Colner and Elizabeth Ann Colner. She lived a life defined by deep love for her family, resilience, and quiet strength, and she will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all who knew her. Interment will be private at Grandview Cemetery, North Versailles. Arrangements by James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc., 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
December 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Joseph A. Santora, 79, of McKeesport, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025. He was born August 13, 1946 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Anthony and Mathelia (Guy) Santora, in addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Mary (Holsinger) Santora, son T.J. Santora, and grandson Brian Santora. He loved music and enjoyed playing guitar. His other hobbies included coin and stamp collecting. Joseph is survived by his daughter Ann Santora Bartko (Ken Bartko); grandchildren Hailey Bartko (Seth Stetar), Casey Bartko, and Aubrey Bartko; great granddaughter Ilah Stetar; sister and brothers Casandra Benzel, Leonard “Lenny” (Kathy) Santora, Ross Santora; also many nieces and nephews. Services are private, and are being handled by William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc. , 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com (http://www.snyderfuneralservices.com/).
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joseph A. Santora please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
James P. Blake, Sr., 87, of North Irwin, formerly of Finleyville, died Friday, December 19, 2025. He was born April 5, 1938 in McKeesport, a son of the late William and Pearl (Wyant) Blake and was also preceded in death by his first wife Bonnie (Forbes) Blake, his second wife Daisey (Kemp) Blake, and brothers William and Gary Blake. Jim was a 1955 graduate of McKeesport High School, was a Vietnam veteran who served 22 years in the Army. He then retired as field operations manager for Icee Co., Bridgeville. He was a member of the American Legion, Post 212, Donora and the White Oak Rod & Gun Club. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and rode with the American Legion Riders in Monroeville, Charleroi, and Donora and also with the Patriot Guard.
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December 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Alyssa A. Martin, 38, died December 21, 2025. Friends will be received from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Dec. 30 at Creative Ministries Berachah, 1422 Evans Ave., until the time of the funeral service. Arrangements in care of Robert A. Waters Funeral Home.
December 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Lois (Bittinger) Karaffa, 92, of North Huntingdon, died Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was born May 21, 1933 in South Greensburg, the daughter of the late Ervin and Ethel G. (Smith) Bittinger and was also preceded in death by her husband Andrew B. Karaffa and a brother James Bittinger. She was a retired operator for Bell Telephone and a member of First Presbyterian Church, Irwin. She is survived by her daughters Susan (Karaffa) Lobur and her husband Daniel of Monroeville and Amy Karaffa of North Huntingdon; and her granddaughter Kaitlyn Karaffa. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 26, at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main St., Irwin, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 27. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lois (Bittinger) Karaffa please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
In Loving Memory: With heavy hearts we announce the passing of the beautiful Joan Leonardo of Westminster, MD. Joan departed this life on June 19, 2025 after a long and heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer’s Disease at the young age of 81. She was a cherished wife, mother, and friend whose kindness, generosity, warmth and love touched the lives of all she knew.
Joan was born in McKeesport, PA on October 5, 1943, to the late Harry and Edna Brooks. She graduated from McKeesport High School in 1961 and went on to meet her husband of 60 years, Rudolph Leonardo. They started a family and in 1967 relocated to Maryland. She was a homemaker until their children were old enough for her to begin a rewarding career at the Social Security Administration, in Woodlawn MD, where she worked for over 20 years.
Before the onset of her illness, she hosted annual family holiday dinners and parties over decades that are so fondly remembered and appreciated. Joan enjoyed traveling, shopping, and playing Mahjong with her friends. Towards the end of her life, she lived with her son Dario and his girlfriend Brenda where they enjoyed long walks, dancing, laughing, good food and family. She spent her final and most difficult days in memory care.
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