Category: Obituaries

Leonia M. DeRosia (Brenner) (Passed on January 16th, 2026)

Leona M. DeRosia (Brenner) 80, of Renfrew, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 16th, 2026. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas. Leona was a lifelong member of St John’s “Burry’s” Church in Rochester, where she and Tom raised four daughters, Beth, Shari, Carrie, and Kim in the love of the Lord. Leona was born and raised in Rochester, a daughter of the late H. Merrill and Laureme Brenner, along with her two siblings: Donna (William) Wright, and Kay (David) Allen. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Donna and her brothers-in-law, William Wright, Dennis (Jan) DeRosia and Kenneth (Sue) DeRosia.She is survived by her twelve grandchildren: Robert (Katie), Aleesha (Manny), Sarah, Ryan, Emma, Katherine (Charles), Hannah, Michael, Matthew, Josiah, Nathanael, Abigail and her three great grandchildren Thomas, Madilynn, and Ava Jo.

Tom and Leona married on September 30th, 1967, and moved to a town just outside of Detroit where they started their family. However, the draw to Western Pennsylvania brought them back to Freedom, where they built a house on a country road and continued to grow their family. Together, they had four beloved daughters: Elizabeth Henry, Sharon (Christopher) Huggins, Carrie (James) Blawas, and Kimberly (Josef) Funyak.

To know Leona is to know how much she delighted in life and in her family. She spent her days steadfastly pursuing Goodness, Truth, and Beauty, and pointing others to God, who is the Source of it all. Besides her Lord and her family, her chief delights included reading, playing the piano, gardening, raising horses, and going to horse events with Tom, playing card games, and making her family laugh.

Calling hours will be held at St. John’s “Burry’s” Church, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester (New Sewickley Twp.) on Sunday, January 25th from 3-5 p.m. and on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at the church, with reception to follow immediately after the service. A private burial at St. John’s “Burry’s” Church Cemetery, which is in the same location, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Leona’s memory may be made to St John’s “Burry’s” Church, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester, PA 15074 or your local church.

“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the Earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him, with my eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” Job 19:25-27

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

To share online condolences, view Leona’s video tribute or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com

Helen V. Krisa (1925-2026)

Helen V. Krisa, 100, formerly of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on January 15th, 2026, at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph of Baden.

She was born in New Brighton on April 26th, 1925, the daughter of the late Louis and Mary (Grdenich) Zuzak. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Krisa, a daughter, Rosemary Rudnicki, a daughter-in-law, Marjorie Krisa and a brother, John Zuzak. She is survived by her children, Walter Krisa and Michael Krisa, her grandchildren: Kelci (Jason) Robbins, Stephanie (Jeffrey) Christian, Michael (Stacy) Krisa, Issac (Dana) de Vyver, and Timothy Krisa; as well as her great-grandchildren, Willoh, Arwyn, Bella, Hollyn, Grace, David, Michael, Anna, and Owen; along with her nieces, nephews, friends, and church family.

Helen was a homemaker and was a devoted member of Holy Family Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. She loved volunteer work at Heritage Valley Hospital in Beaver. She was an avid bingo player and a member of the New Brighton Croation Club.

Friends will be received on Thursday, January 22nd from 3-7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Friday, January 23rd at 10:15 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 A.M. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton with Fr. Howard Campbell as the celebrant.

Private interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.

Laura Lee Staub (1965-2026)

Laura Lee Staub, 60, of Fort Myers, Florida, formerly of Beaver, passed away on January 14th, 2026, following a courageous battle with Cancer.

She was born in New Brighton on April 12th, 1965, a daughter of the late Robert “Greek” and Margaret (Moravec) Staub. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Thomas Anzio. She is survived by her sisters: Vicki Staub, Cindi Anzio, Patti (Regis) McLaughlin, Shari Pfender, Terri Owoc, Ami (Mike) Schlack; as well as her nieces and nephews: Anna (Matthew) McGonigal, Evan (Megan) Anzio, Robert (Stephanie), Melissa, Patrick and Meghan McLaughlin, Tyler (Krista), Brett, and Jesse Pfender, Matthew (Savana) and Beth Owoc, Ashley (Joe) Patzuk, Justin and Allison Schlack and Katelyn (Josh) Peabody-Young; as well as great nieces and nephews: Luke and Molly McGonigal, Brayden Query, Waylan Pfender, Joe and Jack Patzuk. To her nieces and nephews, she will always be remembered as the “fun” aunt.

Laura was a E.C.O. analyst for Saminco Solutions LIC for the past 20 years. She loved her job at Saminco. Her friends and colleagues became her Florida family and she loved them. She also had a unique friendship with her “Beaver Besties”, high school friends forever! She always loved their gatherings. She was Catholic by faith. She had a deep passion for crafting a love she shared with family and friends. Her hands were always busy creating each piece infused with her love, generosity and creativity.

Friends will be received Tuesday, January 20th, from 3-7 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc, 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements. A mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Wednesday January 21st at 10 a.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Laura Lee Staub, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Harriett G. McDonald (Passed on January 15th, 2026)

Harriett G. McDonald, 92, of Monaca, passed away peacefully on January 15th, 2026 at Rochester Manor where she has resided for the past year.

She was born in Aliquippa, a daughter of the late Samuel and Esther (Stickle) Stillwagon. She was the last of a lively household of eleven children. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, J. Patrick McDonald on September 18, 2019 and her siblings: James, Robert, Richard, LeRoy, Samuel Jr. Stillwagon, Dorothy Phillips, Geraldine Grim, Etta Engle, Anna Stillwagon, and Betty Stillwagon. Her legacy continues through her family, including her son, Michael (Deborah) McDonald, her daughter, Kathleen Spencer, her adoring six grandchildren, and her cherished eleven great-grandchildren, as well as her two treasured great-great-grandchildren.

Harriett’s life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family. Her son, daughter, grandchildren: Justin, Jason (Pam), Jonathan (Nicole), and Joel (Kylee) McDonald, Johnny Spencer, and Nicole (Jakob) Brannen, along with her eleven great-grandchildren: Paige (Marcus), Brooklyn, Shaelyn, Garen, Max, Emrys, Grace, Anne, Maggie, Michael, and Stella; as well as her two great-great-grandchildren, Quintin and Alanni, will remember her as a constant source of love, support, and encouragement. She celebrated their achievements with immense pride and was their most enthusiastic supporter in all their endeavors.

Harriett’s professional life included time spent as a waitress at the Hollywood Gardens and Conway Corners. She was a person known for her hard work and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life. She was a former member and president of the Monaca Football Mothers, supporting both midget and high school teams. Her enthusiasm for the game was only surpassed by her dedication to her family, especially her husband and grandchildren, whom she supported wholeheartedly from the sidelines. She was a lifelong member of both the Monaca American Legion Post 580 Auxiliary and the Bunker Hill Community Church, Harriett’s commitment to service was evident. She took great pride in her church, which her father helped to build. She also devoted over two decades of her life serving as the Monaca judge of elections. She was also known for her love of bowling, participating in women’s bowling leagues at Monaca, Sheffield, and Center Lanes on Tuesday and Friday evenings.

As we bid farewell to Harriett, we celebrate a life well-lived and a woman well-loved.

Friends will be received on Monday, January 19th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where services will be held on Tuesday, Jan 20th at 10 a.m. with Pastor Ross Fichter officiating. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Aliquippa.

Brian K. James (1960-2026)

Brian K. James, 65, of Beaver, passed away on January 16th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Sewickley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, listening to the music he loved. He was born in Easton, Pennsylvania on February 29th, 1960, a son of the late Ruth Jean (Coyle) James and Howard James. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Jack Emery. He is survived by his wife of some 35 years, Susan (Webb) James, daughters, Alina and Sabrina James, his brothers: “Mike” (Patricia), Patrick (Renee), Thomas (Amy) and Greg (Debbie); as well as his sister, Barbara Emery, his mother and father-in-law, Ruthann (Jack)  Webb, his sisters and brothers-in-law, Wendy (Joe) Hammel and Cathy (Kurt) Lane; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Brian was a husband, father, musician, artist and athlete. He was the kind of guy you meet and 12 minutes later, he’ll make you feel like an old friend. The Phillies, The Cowboys, Talking Heads, and Springsteen: his passion for his favorites was endless and enthusiastic. Oh, and he was hilarious. Completely hilarious and could have you laughing like crazy, often at his own expense. He was a graduate of Phillipsburg Catholic High School and Moravian University (class of 1983), Brian knew the secret of making friends; and keeping friends. The best guys; the funniest friends with the craziest stories….the kind you can have only with lifelong friends. He was the first person to support you in every way; to respond to your ideas with a smile and an enthusiastic exclamation like “That’s tremendous!”

Family meant everything to Brian and although his illness posed many significant challenges,  his resolve was formidable, and he made it his goal to be at as many family events as possible, especially over the past few years. His beautiful daughters, Alina and Sabrina, were the jewels of his life, and he supported their many activities and took so much pride in their accomplishments. His wife Susan was his strongest, most loving advocate, and they built a life together for some 35 years. Even as they faced Brian’s health challenges together, they shared a partnership filled with love.

Friends will be received on Monday, January 19th from 3 P.M. until the time of services at 7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Brian’s name to the National Kidney Foundation, support.kidney.org.

Deborah A. Mosholder (1973-2026)

Deborah A. Mosholder, 52, of Crescent, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly at her home, on January 15th, 2026.  She was born in Heath, Ohio, on October 23rd, 1973, a daughter of Merle and Patricia (Cattley) Mosholder. In addition to her parents, she is survived by 2 brothers, Bruce (Missy) Mosholder and Brad (Alyssa) Mosholder, 2 sisters, Carla (Shaun) Buckley and Amy (Brian) Herman, 4 nephews: Jacob (Shanie) Mosholder, Tanner (Jordan) Mosholder, Jaxon Herman, River Mosholder; as well as a great-nephew, Tanner Mosholder Jr. and 4 aunts: Anna Cattley, Debi Cattley, Mary Chapman and Co (Jan) Mosholder. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Donald and Angie Mosholder and William and Loretta Cattley, as well as an uncle, John Cattley.

Deborah adored her nephews and loved a good nap.

In accordance with Deborah’s family’s request, a private Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deborah A. Mosholder, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Lawrence D. “Chacho” Lona (1942-2026)

Lawrence D. “Chacho” Lona, 83, passed away peacefully on January 14th, 2026, under hospice care at the Good Samaritan Hospice House in Wexford. He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on October 8th, 1942, a son of the late Santiago and Milka Lona. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Milan “Fatso” Lona, Michael Lona and Steven Lona, his sister, Lola Baich, his brother-in-law, Joe Baich and his sister-in-law, Janet Lona.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy, his children, Lonée Lona (Ture) and Steve (Lisa) Lona, his brother, John (Colette) Lona, his sisters, Maria (John) Caruso and Theresa “Beba” Lona; and sister-in-law, Cathy Lona. He is survived by his nephews, Douglas Miller, Michael (Lori) Miller, Michael (Teresa) Lona and John Caruso, his great-niece, Taylor Miller, his great-nephew, Sawyer Lona, his great-niece, Adison Miller and his great-nephew, Milan Miller. He also held a special bond with his beloved cousin, John Martini.

Lawrence grew up in Midland, Pennsylvania, where his strong work ethic and deep love for family were first formed. He proudly served his country as an airman in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964 and was stationed in Lincoln, Nebraska. His was a graduate of Lincoln High School, he went on to build a life rooted in hard work, dedicating forty years as a steelworker in his hometown before retiring from Allegheny Ludlum.  Chacho found great joy on the golf course, where he spent many happy hours playing the game. He also enjoyed watching golf tournaments on television and never missed a chance to follow the sport he loved. He liked fishing and was a devoted Steelers football fan. Above all, he loved time spent with his family and friends, especially gathering together for dinners and celebrations. Known for his humor and gift for storytelling, Chacho’s kindness and spirit will live on through the stories, laughter, and love shared by his family and friends.

Friends will be received on Saturday, January 17th, from 1-3 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, staff, and volunteers at the Good Samaritan Hospice House for the compassionate and dignified care they provided to Lawrence and his family during his final weeks.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Lawrence D. “Chacho” Lona, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Kristina Lynn Webb (1982-2026)

Kristina Lynn Webb, 43, passed away on January 13th, 2026, following a four-year battle with a re-ocurrence of brain cancer. She first faced cancer in 2012 and, with remarkable strength, went on to live nine cancer-free years before its return in 2021.

She was born in Beaver on March 25th, 1982, a daughter of Kenneth and Barbara Jobe. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband, Eryck Webb, her sister, Kendra, her niece, Grace, her nephews, John and Theo and her beloved dog, Frankie.

From an early age, Kristina was deeply rooted in her faith and remained a devoted churchgoer throughout her life. In high school, she found joy and belonging in marching band and color guard, passions that reflected her creativity, discipline, and love of teamwork. She pursued higher education with a focus on becoming an educator. She spent years substitute teaching and leading classrooms across multiple high schools, while also instructing high school color guard. Teaching was never just a job for her. It was an extension of her instinct to guide, encourage, and lift others. In 2011, she married Eryck Webb in East Liverpool, Ohio, and together they made their home in Midland, Pennsylvania. Their life was full of shared adventures, quiet devotion, and deep partnership. She poured her care outward. She cherished her many beloved dogs over the years, including Wally, Joe, Chico, and Frankie. She cared for her niece, nephews, cousins, and friends’ children as if they were her own, always offering patience, attention, and warmth. She took great pride in caring for her mother, helping extended family members manage medical needs, and checking in on neighbors. She also managed the financial side of Eryck’s art business, bringing order, steadiness, and support behind the scenes. She and Eryck loved exploring state parks with their dogs and traveling together across the country. Along the way, she delighted in collecting shot glasses and refrigerator magnets. She dipped her toes in the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, two of the Great Lakes, and the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, a small but joyful tradition that reflected her curiosity and sense of wonder. Despite enduring immense physical pain and uncertainty throughout her illness, she consistently focused on lifting others. She was known for her kindness and her steady optimism and humor. She had a joke ready for every member of her medical team and never lost her ability to laugh, even in the hardest moments. Her courage was quiet but unwavering, marked by grace, generosity, and an unshakable concern for those around her. She was an avid reader, and libraries meant a lot to her. She encourages everyone, instead of sending flowers, to send a donation to your local library.

Friends will be received on Friday, January 16th from 12 noon-2 P.M. and 4 P.M. until the time of a funeral service at 6 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Interment will be private in Highland Cemetery, 339 Salem Church Road, Midland.

Jean Madeline (DiMarco) DeChellis (1927-2026)

Jean Madeline (DiMarco) DeChellis, 98, formerly of West Aliquippa and Monaca, passed away peacefully on January 10th, 2026, with her beloved family by her side. She was born on August 12th, 1927, a daughter of the late John and Mary (Mancini) DiMarco. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 62 years, Guido DeChellis, her dear sisters, Pearl DiMarco and Theresa Marchionda and her son-in-law, William Fox. She is survived by her loving children: Laureen Fox, Joe (Anna) DeChellis, Mark (Sonia) DeChellis, and Kevin DeChellis, her cherished grandchildren: Jason, Ryan (Nicole), Tyler, Kara (Steve), Lauren, Dante, Allison (Aaron), Joey, Lindsey, and Evan (Kelly); as well as her great-grandchildren: Cameron, Carter, Cole, Luca, Leah, Payton, Joseph, and Phoenix; as well as her uncle, Carmen (Sara) Mancini, and many loving nieces and nephews who will miss her warmth and wisdom.
Jean built a life rich in love, laughter, and cherished memories. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a fondness for puzzles, delighting in the challenges that kept her mind sharp and engaged. She enjoyed technology and the use of her computer where she spent hours playing games, always eager to try something new and connect with friends and family online. Music filled her home and heart. She was drawn to the timeless melodies of classical compositions and the nostalgia of old Hollywood movies, often reminiscing about her favorite scenes and stars. Bingo nights were a highlight for Jean, whether at community gatherings or with loved ones, her excitement contagious as she waited for her lucky numbers to be called.
Jean’s family invites all who knew her to remember her for her kindness, her spirited love of games and music, and the joy she brought into every room. Her lively spirit and tender heart will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Jefferson Hills Rehabilitation for the compassionate care and support they provided to Jean. They also wish to honor and thank her kind and caring roommate, Nancy, for being there and offering unwavering friendship and comfort throughout Jean’s stay.In accordance with Jean’s request, there will not be any public visitation. Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, January 16th, at 12 noon in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca. Entombment will follow at Sylvania Hills Cemetery, 273 PA 68, Rochester.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC, 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jean Madeline (DiMarco) DeChellis please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Sean Patrick Walsh (1954-2026)

Sean Patrick Walsh, 71, of Moon Township, passed aeway unexpectedly on January 11th, 2026 in his home. He was born in McKees Rocks on March 21st, 1954, a son of the late John & Mary Joan (Yaggi) Walsh. She is survived by his wife of 44 years, Carol Annette (Zyroll) Walsh, three daughters, Lauren Walsh of Moon Township, Tara Zimmerman (Gary) of Moon Township and Lyndsey Ruckert (Douglas) of Moon Towsnhip, seven grandchildren: Gianna, Gabriella, Owen, Kendall, Sophia, Kylee & Rylee, a brother, Tim Walsh (Peggy) and late brother, Mark Walsh (Kathy), a brother-in-law, Sam Zyroll (Pattie) and Rich Zyroll (Rose).

Sean grew up in McKees Rocks and was proud of it. He received a full scholarship for caddying to Robert Morris University and graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance and Accounting. He excelled in his career at Bayer Material Science and Covestro where he managed planning and supply chain for production plants around the world. He was diagnosed with lymphoma in 1981; he beat it and remained cancer-free ever since. He loved his family and friends very much and was an enthusiastic member of his bowling and golfing leagues. He always had to stay busy and was a very hard worker, you could always find him tackling a home improvement project at his house or his daughters. He was a great husband, dad, and pap and was so loved and adored by his daughters and grandkids.

Friends will be received on Thursday, January 15th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 16th at 10 A.M. in St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 1 Parish Place, Coraopolis. Everyone please meet at the church. Committal will follow at Holy Souls Catholic Cemetery, 4772 Campbells Run Road, Pittsburgh.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in his memory to: Lymphoma Research Foundation and March of Dimes – UPMC Magee NICU