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James Robert "Jimmy" Chesleigh

January 30, 2025 |

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

James Robert "Jimmy" Chesleigh, age 33 of West Mifflin, passed away at home on Monday, January 27, 2025.  Born August 2, 1991 in Pittsburgh, he is a son of Calvert E. Chesleigh of West Mifflin and Kim Brook of Pittsburgh.  An electrician and handyman, Jimmy loved animals and taking his bicycle on trails around the area.  Besides his parents, he is survived by his siblings Calvert A. Chesleigh of Pittsburgh, Sarah (Eric) Campbell of Pittsburgh, John (Krista Margliotti) Chesleigh of Baldwin, and Emmet Chesleigh of McKeesport; his niece Millie Chesleigh; and also many cousins.  Jimmy was also preceded in death by the love of his life Diane Cercone.  

 
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Ernest R. Oatneal

January 29, 2025 |

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

Ernest R. Oatneal, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, departed this life on January 12, 2025. Born on June 29, 1947, in West Newton, Pennsylvania, Ernest was the cherished son of Daniel Grady Oatneal and Elizabeth Oatneal. He lived a life filled with purpose, love, and unwavering dedication. He served his country honorably as a member of the Army in Vietnam, embodying courage, integrity, and a deep sense of duty.

Ernest’s charismatic personality lit up every room he entered, making him the life of every gathering. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, bringing laughter, warmth, and joy wherever he went. His charm was matched only by his generosity, and he had a gift for making everyone feel valued and loved. His family and friends will always remember his ability to bring laughter, warmth, and unwavering support into their lives.

A man of simple joys and profound wisdom, Ernest found happiness in storytelling, spending time with family, and community work. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his family and community, leaving a legacy of care and devotion that will be carried on by those who were blessed to know him.

He retired from the VA Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where his hard work and dedication touched countless lives. His wisdom, humor, and endless love made him the cornerstone of his family and a treasured friend to all who knew him.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Oatneal; his children Corey Whindleton and wife Michelle, Wade Whindleton and wife Candace, Shannon Green, Eugene Brown and wife; his brother Harry Oatneal and his wife Patricia; his sister Josephine Oatneal Scott; his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Florence Oatneal-Parris, Grady Edward Oatneal, Richard Oatneal, Etta Oatneal, Juanita Oatneal-Turner, and Stanford Lee Oatneal, who now welcome him into eternal peace.

Ernest’s legacy of love and laughter will forever remain in the hearts of those who cherished him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

A devoted man of God, Ernest’s life was guided by the comforting words of Scripture. As we celebrate his remarkable journey, we find peace in the promise of Psalm 23:6:

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernest Raymond Oatneal, please visit our floral store.

 
 


Donald F. Austin

January 29, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Donald F. Austin, 87, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, January 20, 2025, at AHN Forbes Regional Hospital. He was born August 1, 1937, in McKeesport, a son of the late Julius and Elizabeth (Smith) Austin and was also preceded in death by a brother Julius J. Austin, a sister Elizabeth E. Tkac, grandson Jared Lee Hooke, great grandson Jett Roman Austin, brothers-in-law John, Frank, and Bill Patterson, Bob Cornell, and Steve Cindric, and sisters-in-law Gay (Bost) Austin, Carol (Maley) Patterson, and Dorlee “Geege” Patterson. He is survived by his wife of 68 years Shirley J. (Patterson) Austin; ;their children Tracy Hawley (Bill) of Irwin, Donn (Cindy) Austin of Penn Township, Erin Hooke (Bill) of North Huntingdon, and Chad (Dr. Curren Katz) of Titusville, NJ; his grandchildren Joey (Sara), Joshua (Samantha), Andy (Dr. Katrina), Jonathan (Carley), Ryan (Claudia), Colin (Katelynn), Jesse (Amber), Devin (Lindsay), Jadon, Aidan, Caelan, and Emiliana: great grandchildren Jayce, William, Charlotte, Lyam, Lily, Marshall, Maeve, Celine, and Silas. He is also survived by his Goddaughter Valerie (David) Luehm, and many nieces and nephews and their families. After graduating from McKeesport Vocational High School, Class of 1955, Don began working for Thorofare Markets, a local grocer, where he was manager of produce. After 15 years in retail Don fulfilled his lifelong dream of a career in law enforcement. He joined the North Huntingdon Township Police Department as a patrolman, and later, working with youth as a Juvenile Officer, advancing to the rank of Sergeant. Don was instrumental in implementing the Field Training Program used by the department. He retired from the force with 30 years of service. After retirement form the police department he was elected Commissioner of Ward 7 of North Huntingdon Township and served for 12 years. Don was a member of the Allegheny Valley Lodge 39, Fraternal Order of Police, New Kensington Division, the Penn’s Woods Civic Association, and Irwin First United Methodist Church. Don was an honest, hard-working man. In addition to always having a full time job, he also held second and third jobs as a means of providing for his family. He worked in construction, as a cab driver, and funeral attendant and hearse driver, just to name a few. He was also a jack-of-all trades as evidenced by his countless renovations to the family home, fixing cars, and putzin’ around the house. He enjoyed deer hunting and the outdoors and he’d tell you he never bagged the “big one”. After retirement Don took great pleasure in attending the activities of his grandchildren, spending time at the football field, track, and gymnasium. He also enjoyed watching sports, especially his Pittsburgh teams the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. Relatives and friends of Don will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday with Pastor Alex Ielase of First Evangelical Free Church, McKeesport, officiating. Interment will follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

 


Scott R. Shank

January 29, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Scott R. Shank, 59, of Penn Township, passed away at home on Monday January 20, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born July 12, 1965 in McKeesport, a son of the late Robert E. and Patricia (Hadad) Shank. He had a 36 year career in law enforcement; he first served the McKeesport Police Department, then moved on to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General as a Narcotics Agent for 25 years - where he retired in 2015. After retirement from the Attorney General's Office, he was a School Resource Officer at Gateway School District, and ended his career at Seton Hill University where he served as a Police Officer.

Scott enjoyed car shows and martial arts. He was a hard worker who used the skills he learned from his dad to complete countless renovations at his own home, and the homes of many family members and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife Christina C. (Beaumont) Shank; sons Brandyn (Lacy) Shank of Wilkins Twp., Evyn Shank and Ethyn Shank both of Penn Township; sister and brothers Dawn (Jerry) Wonderling of McKeesport, Tracey Shank of Jefferson Hills, and Ryan (Sandy) Shank of Shaler; also cherished nieces, nephews and in-laws. Friends and family were received at the William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. Interment followed in Grandview Cemetery, North Versailles. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute to the Reflections of Grace Foundation, https://www.reflectionsofgrace.org. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com

 


Richard C. Dombrowski

January 29, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Richard C. Dombrowski, age 89, of North Huntingdon, passed away Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was born November 28, 1935 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Helen Dombrowski. He served in the Navy and went onto work for many years as a conductor and brakeman for Union Railroad in Duquesne. He loved golfing, bowling and trips to the beach. In addition to his mother, he is preceded in death by his son-in-law David DiBiase; brother Joseph Dombrowski; sister Carol Jean Jiansante; and his dog Hannah. He is survived by his wife of over 67 years Carol A. (Wieseckel) Dombrowski; children Debbie (John) Brletic of New Alexandria, Diane DiBiase of Harrison City, Dawn Baker of Harrison City, Darla Dombrowski of Level Green and Rick (Kylie) Dombrowski of Irwin; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. January 30th at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. Everyone will gather at the funeral home at noon on Friday January 31st for a Blessing Service. Interment with military honors will follow at Twin Valley Memorial Park in Delmont. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

 


Janet L. Williams

January 29, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

On January 23, 2025, our Lord brought home one of his greatest workers, Janet Williams, born 4-13-1940,
who was originally from Johnstown, Pa. then for over 50 years lived in North Versailles, and finally passing at Redstone in Irwin, Pa.

Janet and her deceased husband Don (2017) were the most dedicated, hardest working, loyal people, that never accepted a penny for all of their work for their neighborhood, and friends. They cultivated their own yard, their gorgeous flowers, and their shrubs into an unmatched heavenly beauty.

Janet was an Elementary school teacher and Principal at St. Roberts. However one of Jan and Don’s greatest joys was working with the wonderful folks at Meals on Wheels in North Versailles. Janet and Don are finally back together again, to continue with giving and caring for all. There will be no viewing at Janet’s request. Memorial Donations may be made to Meals on Wheels of North Versailles, Pa.

 


Cleo Jean Elash

January 29, 2025 |

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

Cleo Jean Elash, age 74, of McKeesport, PA, died on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. She was born on January 12, 1951, in McKeesport, PA, and is the daughter of the late Howard, Sr. and Mildred Rickard Lindberg. She was a member of the Elizabeth Township Senior Citizens.

 
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Lois A Price

January 29, 2025 |

By Elmer L Herman Funeral Home | Posted in: Elmer L. Herman Funeral Home

With hearts full of love, we remember Lois A. Price, a beacon of strength and kindness who lived a life rich with love and laughter.

Lois went to her eternal home on Friday, January 10 2025 at the age of 81. She resided in Clairton, PA.

She was the mother of a daughter and two sons.

Arrangements entrusted to Elmer L Herman Funeral Home (412) 521-2768,

www.elmerhermanfunerahome.com

l"Where Every Life is Cherished & Every Family is Treasured."

 


William "Bill" Hooke

January 29, 2025 |

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

William Hooke (Bill) age 62 of North Huntingdon passed away at home on January 28, 2025 after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 30, 1962 in Homestead, a son of the late Charles and Alice (Loutsenhizer) Hooke. Bill was a 1980 graduate of Norwin High School and a 1984 graduate of Point Park College. Bill was a member of First Evangelical Free Church of McKeesport where he served in teen ministry and the church café. He lived by faith and is now with Jesus. Bill was employed by Lance Inc. and then worked and retired from the United States Postal Service. He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan including the Pitt Panthers, attending many football and basketball games. He also had a love for music, some of his favorite bands were Queen, Kansas and Billy Joel to name a few. Family was everything, and his children and grandchildren were his pride and joy while attending all of their activities and sports. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Jared Lee Hooke and his father-in-law Donald Austin. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years Erin (Austin) Hooke, four sons Joshua (Samantha), Jonathan (Carley), Jesse (Amber), Jadon, grandchildren Jayce, Charlotte, Lyam and Marshall. He is also survived by three sisters Debbie (Tom) Javor, Kathy (Fred) Furia, Susan (Albert) Smith, mother-in-law Shirley Austin, sister-in-law Tracy (Bill) Hawley, brothers-in-law Donn (Cindy) Austin, Chad Austin (Curren) and many nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike North Huntingdon, PA 15642 on Friday, January 31st from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, February 1st at First Evangelical Free Church, 4001 University Drive, McKeesport, PA 15132, with Pastor Kevin Labby and Pastor Alex Ielase officiating. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Bill's name to the Wounded Warrior Project. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Bernard James Little, Jr.

January 28, 2025 |

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

Bernard James Little, Jr., age 87, of White Oak, PA, died on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. He was born July 28, 1937, in McKeesport, PA, to the late Bernard James, Sr. and Velma Sharbaugh Little.

 
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John R. Gellen Jr.

January 28, 2025 |

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

John R. Gellen, Jr., age 54, of McKeesport, died January 21, 2025, at UPMC Mercy. Born December 28, 1970, in McKeesport, he was the son of John R. Gellen, Sr., and the late Ruth Ann (Swanson) Gellen and companion of Vicki Carrillo.

 
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Ronald William Kinlough

January 28, 2025 |

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

Ronald William Kinlough, 76, of McKeesport passed away Monday, January 27, 2025. He was born January 5, 1949 in McKeesport to the late Donald Kinlough and the late Jean (Andrew) Hileman. Ron served in the Army from 1968 -1972. While serving, he taught himself 5 different languages, extremely fluent in Russian, and was a Voice Interceptor. He obtained the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Expert M-14 & M-16 Marksmanship badges. Ron is survived by many cousins. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his step-father, Irvin "Ed" Hileman. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

 


Robert D. Patterson

January 28, 2025 |

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

Robert "Bob" D. Patterson, 66, of McKeesport passed away on January 22, 2025. Son of Mary Lou Miller Patterson and the late Douglas Patterson, he was born December 10, 1958, in McKeesport.  An AMF certified bowling mechanic for 50 years, Bob was also an accomplished bowler and is in the Bowling Hall of Fame for one of his perfect 300 games and high series. He was an excellent card player and wordsmith and had a wonderful sense of humor.

 
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Catherine A. Pazo

January 27, 2025 |

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

Catherine A. “Kay” (Ferencic) Pazo, age 96, of Belle Vernon and formerly of Clairton, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at home. She was a member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, St. Thomas A’ Becket Church, St. George Lodge #248 of the Croatian Fraternal Union, and the St. Clare Women’s Guild. Born May 18, 1928 in Coverdale, she was a daughter of the late Josip and Helen (Martinjak) Ferencic and wife of the late Edward W. “Ebbo” Pazo, Sr. She is survived by her son, Edward W. (Beth) Pazo of Jefferson Hills; two grandchildren, Alexandra Pazo of Cleveland, OH, and Edward W. Pazo, III of Jefferson Hills; brother, Joseph Ferencic, Jr. of Bethel Park; niece and caregiver, Paulette Gerbin of Belle Vernon; additional nieces, Cynthia Ferencic and Joyce Pazo; nephews, Jeffrey Ferencic, Gregory Pazo, Vincent Pazo, Jr., who was also her godson, and Mark Pazo. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Plevel and Helen Gerbin. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 3-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 10 AM in St. Thomas A’ Becket Church, Jefferson Hills, with Rev. Phillip P. Pribonic officiating. Burial will follow at St. Clare Cemetery, Clairton. Memorial contributions can be made to the Croatian Fraternal Union Scholarship Foundation, 100 Delaney Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

 


Geraldine Morris

January 27, 2025 |

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

Geraldine Morris, 94, of Elizabeth, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at home. She was born on July 26, 1930 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Herbert Guthrie and Edith Guthrie (Easley) Carrick. She was the loving wife of the late Hallet Leroy "Bricky" Morris, Jr., who passed away on October 18, 2011. Geraldine was a 1949 graduate of Clairton High School and a 1976 graduate from the Allegheny Beauty Academy. She was an avid church attendee of the Elizabeth United Methodist Church. She loved cooking and spending time with her family, especially all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

 
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