Author: Beaver County Radio

Man gets charges filed for assaulting woman in Linmar Homes in Aliquippa

(Photo Courtesy of the City of Aliquippa Police Department)

Beaver County Radio News

(Aliquippa, PA) A misdemeanor charge and a summary charge have been filed against a man after he allegedly assaulted a female at Linmar Homes in Aliquippa on Saturday. According to Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sandy Giordano, a female issued a complaint to the City of Aliquippa Police Department that her boyfriend, thirty-year-old Maurice Harvey, slammed her on a coffee table and punched her in her left eye. The female also noted that this occurred during an argument. The eye of the female victim that was hit was swollen as well as black and blue. Harvey had charges filed for both harassment and simple assault. 

Man from Pittsburgh jailed after alleged domestic assault

(Photo Courtesy of the City of Aliquippa Police Department)

(Reported by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sandy Giordano)

(Harmer Township, PA) A man from Pittsburgh was taken to jail after getting a complaint on Sunday of an alleged domestic assault. Twenty-eight-year-old William Hayden of Pittsburgh allegedly strangled and assaulted the female victim who called the police. Hayden also took two iPhones from the female. The female had signs of abuse that were visible, including bite marks and marks around the neck and throat. Hayden was apprehended in Harmer Township and is now in the Beaver County Jail facing four filed charges. 

Woman receives arrest warrant for allegedly stealing items and escaping from a Dollar General in Aliquippa

(Photo Courtesy of the City of Aliquippa Police Department)

(Reported by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sandy Giordano)

(Aliquippa, PA) A woman has an arrest warrant for an alleged retail theft at a Dollar General in Aliquippa. Thirty-six-year-old Diandra Disilvestro is the suspect who allegedly stole items and escaped from the Dollar General on Franklin Avenue. Police received a call on Thursday and a complaint on Saturday about Disilvestro committing the same crime. This incident is not the first time Disilvestro took things from that store and escaped from it. Two charges were filed on Disilvestro, and if you know where she is, call 724-378-8000.  

No charges filed after Aliquippa woman causes a single-vehicle accident on I-376 East

(File Photo of Police Lights)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Center Township, PA) Pennsylvania State Police in Beaver report that a single-vehicle crash occurred on I-376 East in Center Township on Saturday. At 1:32 p.m., twenty-nine-year-old Amanda Varga of Aliquippa hit some cable guide rails with her car multiple times before coming to a stop. No charges were filed by police after the incident. 

 

Dr. James Willard Smith, Jr. (1932-2025)

Dr. James Willard Smith, Jr., 92, passed away on January 13th, 2025. He was born on November 20th, 1932. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Janice. He is survived by his son, James Smith of Fort Worth, Texas, his daughter, Jillian (Tim Donovan) Smith of St. Augustine, Florida, as well as his dear friends and caretakers Michael McMillen and Diane Erickson.

Dr. Smith was a graduate of University of Pittsburgh’s Medical School in 1958 in general surgery who served in thoracic and cardiovascular surgery at University of Pittsburgh’s Children’s Hospital and at the University of Bristol, England from 1964-1966. He was also the assistant chief of surgery at the Veterans Hospital in Oakland, Pennsylvania from 1955-1967. His subsequent private practice in Beaver Falls was interrupted when a spinal-injuring skiing accident caused him to rethink his career. He returned to Pitt’s medical school at 47, the oldest student they had ever had, to complete a four-year residency in pathology, which he called “a bridge between science and clinical medicine.” He was appointed to four American Boards of Medicine including the Boards of Surgery, Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, and Forensic Pathology. The latter specialty in forensic pathology allowed Dr. Smith to become Beaver County’s first forensic pathologist in 1985 at 53 years old. Having a specialist in crime and medicine meant that Beaver County could perform its own forensic autopsies and have its own expert witness as well as an assistant deputy coroner at the Medical Center. Dr. Smith was well-loved and respected by the medical, legal, and law enforcement communities for which he was a nexus. Beaver County’s District Attorney, Teresa Ferris-Dukovich frequently cited Dr. Smith as “one of the best in his field,” saying that there weren’t “adequate words to express how valuable he is in our profession.” In 1994, Dr. Smith led recovery operations in the field for the crash of flight 427, the seventh deadliest aviation accident in US history (now the 11th). With DNA science in its infancy, Smith, and fellow pathologist Dr. Karl Williams, relied largely on dental and fingerprint records to successfully identify 125 of the 132 people on board, all fatalities. The effort required 2,000 body bags and a thorough grid system for the team to identify remains and belongings to return to victims’ loved ones. Ironically, he was unable, and unwilling, to kill a fly and was a great animal rescuer, from his family’s first dog, Brunhilda, whom he stole from a medical research lab, to his last rescued cat, who turned out to be pregnant with 4 cats, all of whom he refused to give away. Gentle towards animals yet fearless on a set of skis or a bicycle, he lived with determination and moxie. He taught his children freedom from the opinions of others and took his family on many adventures. In his last few days, his thinking became populated with thoughts of the mechanics of machines, chickens, and Einstein. His vigor and delight in life never turned off. He died peacefully and in the presence of those he loved.

In accordance with James’ wishes, no public services will be held immediately. Friends are encouraged to visit James’ and Janice’s memorial bench in the walking loop at Brady’s Run Park.

Professional Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

 

Theresa “Terri” Pizzuti Burnett (Passed on February 14th, 2025)

Theresa ‘Terri’ Pizzuti Burnett, 80, of Monaca passed away on February 14th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born in Rochester, Pennsylvania. She was a beacon of kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity throughout her life. Theresa grew up in a close-knit family and was a graduate of Monaca High School, class of 1962. She carried the values instilled in her by her late parents, John and Rose (Guantonio) Pizzuti, throughout her life. Terri’s love and respect for her family were evident in the way she spoke of her late sister, Rose Marie Pizzuti Patterson and her husband, Jack, as well as her brother Tom Pizzuti.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan Burnett, who was the apple of her eye. She is also survived by her dear sister, Toni (George) Haller, brother, John (Denise) Pizzuti, sister-in-law, Michele Pizzuti, several nieces and nephews: Terri (Paul) Specht, Jack (Suellen) Patterson, Kathy (Barry) Reznick, Chris (Dana) Haller, Sara Ball, Michael Pizzuti, Tony (Katrina) Pizzuti and Katy (Jerry) Bryan; will remember her fondly. She is also survived by numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Professionally, Theresa was an administrative assistant at the Community College of Beaver County, where she retired after years of committed service.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was an incredibly talented seamstress, often fashioning beautiful garments for her daughter Susan throughout her school years. Her creativity was boundless, and she found joy in crafting, transforming discarded items into treasures. Terri’s garden was a testament to her love for nature.

She was an enthusiastic visitor to the local casinos. Her social gatherings were incomplete without her presence, especially the lunches she so enjoyed with friends and co-workers. She was also known for her dedication in helping to organize her high school class of 1962’s reunions that brought joy and reconnection to her classmates.

She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca and her kindness reached not only those closest to her but also those who came across her path.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 17th from 5 -8 p.m. at Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. A memorial mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 19th at 10 am at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca.

Sara L. Reft Alexander (Passed on February 13th, 2025)

Sara L. Reft Alexander, 88, of Monaca, passed away on February 13th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Melvina Reft. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph Reft. She is survived by her children, Jay (Marilee) Alexander, Jeff (Lorie) Alexander and Kim Alexander, her five grandchildren and her fur babies, Tiger and Boots.

Sara was a graduate of Monaca High School with the class of 1954, where she not only received her education but also cultivated lifelong friendships. Her commitment to her alma mater was evident as she actively participated in their class reunions.

Sara was well-known for her love of playing bingo, with the Vanport Fire Department as her favorite venue. In addition to her love for bingo, Sara found solace and pleasure in the great outdoors. Camping in Mercer was one of her most cherished activities.

Sara possessed a talent for crocheting. She lovingly crafted hats and scarves which she then generously gave to children. This simple, yet profound act of giving was a testament to her kind-hearted and altruistic nature.

A private family viewing was held at Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Florence (Lecce) Lasky (1930-2025)

Florence (Lecce) Lasky, 94, passed away on February 14th, 2025.
She was born in Aliquippa on May 19th, 1930, the daughter of the late Chiara and Giovanni Lecce. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Lasky, her brother, Orazio Antonio Lecce and her nephew, Richard Ralph Lecce.
She is survived by a multitude of nephews and nieces, including her nephew, John Lecce, her niece, Denise Lecce Ward, as well as several great-nephews, nieces, great great-nieces and great-great nephews.

Florence was a lifelong member of St. Titus Catholic Church, part of Mary Queen of Saints Parish where she was baptized, confirmed, and married.
Florence was an intelligent woman with an entrepreneurial spirit. Despite never receiving a college degree, her natural ambition inspired her to own and manage a business, serve as a bank manager at numerous banks and prepare taxes for family and friends. Her niece, Denise, frequently mentioned, “Florence was born ahead of her time!” Along with all the hats she wore, the most important was that of a good friend and doting aunt. It was like her house had a revolving door, and her many friends and family were always welcome. If you were close to Florence, you
knew what it meant when she said, “I am going to therapy.” Playing slots and video poker were her favorite pastimes.
Visitation will be on Monday, February 17th from 10 a.m. until the time of departing prayers at 11:30 a.m. in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 12 noon at St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa. Her final resting place will be next to her loving husband at Mount Olivet.

Norma Jean Castelucci (1930-2025)

Norma Jean Castelucci, 94, of Beaver Falls, passed away on February 15th, 2025, with her loving family by her side at Providence Care Center of Beaver Falls.

She was born in New Brighton on June 5th, 1930,  a daughter of the late George and Florence (Norris) Boren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by by her husband of sixty-two years, M. Niel Castelucci, daughter, Nancy, a sister, Marion Wolfe and a granddaughter. She is survived by her children and spouses, Niel W. and Ruth Castelucci, David and Becky Castelucci and Brenda and Regis Stief, eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, sister, Eleanor Dick, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Norma was born and raised in New Brighton.  She was a long-time member of the New Brighton Free Methodist Church.  She stayed at home to raise her four children.  She loved to read Amish books and do word search puzzles.  She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Norma loved dogs and enjoyed when the therapy dogs came to visit.  She loved giving gifts and sending cards.

Friends will be welcomed on Monday, February 17, from 2 p.m. until the time of service at 6 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, with Pastor Gary Hilton officiating.

A very special thank you goes out to the caring third floor staff at Providence Care Center.

Darlene Jane Gaus (1949-2025)

Darlene Jane Gaus, 75, passed away on February 13th, 2025, at Rochester Manor & Villa with her husband at her side.

She was born in Beaver Falls on May 20th, 1949, a daughter of the late Leslie and Blanche Roeder. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Shirley Fosnaught and her siblings: Oliver “Bud” Roeder, Charles “Butch” Roeder, Leslie “Pickle” Roeder and Dale Roeder. She is survived by her beloved husband of 51 years, Glenn “Jack” Gaus Sr., her children, Glenn (Joy) Gaus Jr., Lisa Jones and Tammy Gaus, grandchildren: Jordan Gaus, Ashley Gaus, Brittany Jahoda, and Christina Happ; two great grandchildren, Elli and Gemma, an aunt, Madelyn Bosworth, sister-in-law, Janice Roeder, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Darlene was a Quality Control Specialist at Phoenix Glass in Monaca for over 30 years before her retirement. In her free time, you would find her playing bingo faithfully with her true love Jack, who was always at her side. They were inseparable, whether it was at work, home, a restaurant, a casino or a bingo hall.

There will be a celebration of life announced at a later date.

Inurnment will be in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park & Mausoleum.

All arrangements were entrusted to the Gabauer-Todd Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 340 Third Street, Beaver, who was honored to care for Darlene and her family. A special thank you goes out to the staff at Rochester Manor & Villa, especially Courtney, for the kindness and care that Darlene was given during her time there.