Category: Obituaries

Mary Devlin McCaffrey (Passed on September 23rd, 2026)

Mary Devlin McCaffrey, 74 passed away peacefully on September 23rd, 2026, at her home in Brighton Township, Pennsylvania.

She was born in Philadelphia and was raised in Roslyn (Montgomery County), Mary was a daughter of the late John and Mary Devlin.

Mary was a graduate of Bishop McDevitt High School in Wyncote and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University, majoring in history. She later received her teaching certificate from Geneva College. She shared a long and loving marriage with her husband, Michael D. McCaffrey. She was a devoted mother to her son, Michael, and his wife, Kelly, and to her daughter, Marisa. She was a cherished grandmother to Summer and Jax.

She is also survived by her siblings, Frank Devlin, John Devlin, and Kathleen Pinto; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Devlin and brother, Charles Devlin. Mary was deeply connected to her family throughout her life, and those bonds remained central to who she was.

Mary began her professional life as a homemaker, where she created a loving and welcoming home for her family. Later, she gained employment with the Beaver School District as a substitute teacher and eventually managed the school’s cafeteria program. Her life was also enriched by her love of the outdoors and time spent with her family. She and her family loved to camp and visited the majority of the Pennsylvania State Parks, creating many cherished memories along the way. Whether gathered around a campsite or spending time at home, Mary found happiness in the company of those she loved. She was a member of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Beaver and Our Lady of the Valley Parish.

Mary had requested that no public services would be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Ann Elizabeth (Bango Cook) Layne (1951-2026)

Ann Elizabeth (Bango Cook) Layne, 75, of Industry, passed away on September 14th, 2026, following an intensely brave, private, and often stubborn 4.5-year battle with colorectal cancer, refusing to let it define who she was. She was much stronger than we could imagine or wanted her to be.

She was born in Rochester on March 19th, 1951, a daughter of the late James Joseph and Coral Louise (Bailey) Bango. She was raised in Rochester and later married Terry Cook. They moved to Freedom and raised their 5 children.

Ann dedicated her younger years to working as a stay-at-home mom. She then opened her own business, “Ann’s Anything’s Possible,” and truly anything was possible! From specialty cakes, fresh baked snacks, and homemade meals to craft shows, gorgeously tailored clothing, and home remodeling; she had a vivid imagination to bring dreams to life. She retired from the Monaca Walmart after dedicating 30 years to the fabric department. During that time, she remarried to James Layne leading her heart and family to grow bigger by 2 daughters.

She loved to share time, meals, a game, or a story, as well as teaching her hobbies to family and her many friends. She welcomed her neighborhood as if they were her own family. The house was always full of laughter, neighborhood kids, and the aroma of homemade meals. She had a lifelong love of God, fishing, canoeing, the northern lights, shooting stars, and marveling at all of God’s creations. She was a beautiful (or “bootiful” as Eli says), strong independent, talented, loving, and sometimes hard-headed and obstinate. She had “adopted” many of her friends into her family. She developed many deep friendships which makes it impossible to list all who loved her and she loved back. They include: Donna Cain, Karen Sutkovich, Linda, Rick, Ricky, Chelsea and children (Chovan), Sue and Bob Mortimer and family, Monica, Anna, her Walmart family, as well as too many cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles to name.

When we were young, she would always say she wanted to have a commune for her family to live alongside her. Despite family growing up, moving away, and all the complications that come with life, Ann spent the last weeks of her life with her commune while sharing a deep love and healing that can only come from a loving God. She would hope and ask for all to tell someone you love them today, pray for each other, forgive, and spend time with loved ones; “Life is the longest, shortest adventure you will have.”

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her second husband, James Layne and her step granddaughter, Corrina Layne.

She is survived by her sons: Aaron (Brandi) Cook, TJ (Michelle) Cook, and Matt Cook; daughters, Joanna (Jesse Burkert) Sampson, Jessica Cook, Laura (Robert) Probst, Amanda (Donald) Layne; as well as her brothers, James Bango and Thomas Bango, her sisters, Mary Kutzko and Jessica Bango, her grandchildren: Forrest (Leslie) Sampson, Phoenix Sampson, Ashley (Brett) Gallo, Kirstin Neely, Sumir (Jericho) Dobritz, Isabelle Mattie Cook, Brittney (Ryan) Hottenfeller, Brandon (Samie) Childers, Gemma Cook, Elise Propst, Angelina Probst, Stephen Layne; and great grandchildren, Auroa Sampson, Ryker Gallo, Maddox Gallo, Elijah Gallo, Cohen Hottenfeller, Benjamin Dobritz.

The family would like to thank AHN healthcare providers, Concordia visiting Nurses, and Good Samaritan Hospice for the compassionate care, love, and respect they provided. Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice House, https://concordialm.org/donate/ (click here).

A celebration of life will be arranged at a later date. Private inurnment is to take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, 379 Engle Road, Industry.

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

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Donald George Hanshaw (1948-2026)

Donald George Hanshaw, 77, of Vanport, passed away, surrounded by his loving family, on September 22nd, 2026.

He was born in Rochester on November 20th, 1948, a son of the late Ray and Irene (Curry) Hanshaw.

Donald worked for PTC Alliance and Snyder’s Flowers. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Beaver and Our Lady of the Valley Parish. He was a part of many organizations including as a Vanport Township Commissioner and a member of the Vanport Township Fire Department. He also served as president of Saints Peter and Paul Keenage. He found great joy in being a greeter and usher at the church, an extra ordinary minister, a second-grade religion teacher, and Keenage Elder, as well as a youth sports coach for many teams for his son and grandsons.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, a brother, Carl Hanshaw and his great-niece, Reese Hanshaw.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce (Hawkey) Hanshaw, his sons, Jim (Ivy) Hanshaw and Michael (Diana) Hanshaw, his daughters, Tammy (Johnny) Wakefield and Dawn Ann (Ray) Thompson, his brother, Wilbert (Betty) Hanshaw, his sisters, Caroline (Ron) Stone and Linda Stephens, his grandchildren: Austin (Dianna) Hanshaw, Noah Hanshaw, Bonny and Johnny Jr. Wakefield, Breanna and Jason Hanshaw, Timothy, Chris, and Grace Thompson, and Wesley and Kelci Yeager; as well as his great-grandchildren: Mary Jane, Lily, Eleanor, Sapphire and Daemon; along with numerous nieces and nephews, church members, Keenagers SSPP neighbors and bingo friends.

Friends will be received from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., on Friday, September 25th in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 26th, at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 3rd Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Therese Ciancone (1943-2026)

Therese Ciancone, 83, of Midland, passed away peacefully on September 23rd, 2026.

She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on September 22nd, 1943, a daughter of the late Sabatino “Sam” and Mary Ciancone.

Therese was a lifelong resident of Midland, and was a faithful member of St. Blaise Catholic Church in Midland and St. Augustine Parish. She was also a bank teller for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Joe, Rocco, Margaret, Laura, and Anna Marie; as well as her nephew, Martin.

She is survived by her nephew, David Wilson and his great-nephews, Drew and Riley Wilson.

Friends will be received on Sunday, September 27th from 12 noon-4 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Monday, September 28th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Blaise Catholic Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland.

Private Inurnment to take place at Beaver Mausoleum, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Herbert E. Corey (1933-2026)

Herbert E. Corey, 93, of Beaver Falls, passed away on September 22nd, 2026, at Cambridge Village. He was born in Hopkinton, Rhode Island on January 24th, 1933, a son of the late Frederick and Gwendolyn Corey. He was a proud veteran and served in the military for the Korean War. He worked as a Crew Foreman for the Beaver Falls Municipal Authority until his retirement. He was a simple man who valued his work and spending time outdoors. He is survived by his wife, Helen Corey, his daughters, Rebecca Cable, Brenda (Dennis) Palmer and Lisa (Paul) Guerrera, his grandchildren: Jason Berresford, Joshua Berresford, Danielle Jackson, Tonya Johnston, Shannon See, Morgan Richard, Ashley Hudson and Angelina Guerrera; as well as eight great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Deborah See and his siblings, John and Nelly Corey. There will be a visitation on Wednesday, September 30th from 2-4 p.m. and 5 p.m. until the time of a service to start at 7 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Robert C. Basinger, Sr. (1942-2026)

Robert C. Basinger Sr., 93, of McDonough, Georgia, formerly of Waynesburg and Freedom, passed away on September 19th, 2026, at his home.

He was born in Lone Pine, Pennsylvania on October 9th, 1942, a son of the late Jason and Rosa Jane Phillips Basinger.

Robert was a retired employee with the former Armco Steel and a former Pilot as well as instructor. He was an FAA Designee instructor and flight examiner. He was Methodist by faith. He received his Pilot Licensee through the FAA from CCBC. His ATP rating for private, commercial, multi-engine instruments, and Sea-Plane. He was a member of Beaver Valley Skydivers, a member of the Butler Farm Show, a member of the Air Heritage Museum, and was a commander in charge of the C-123 for ten years. His main interests were in single and multi-engine aircraft flying, corporate aircraft flying, and deer hunting. He was also a U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Ina Marlene (Edge) Basinger, as well as two sons and daughters-in-law, Robert C. Sr. and Karen Basinger of Fairfax Station, Virginia, and Ken J. Sr. and Teri Basinger of McDonough, Georgia, three grandchildren, Kenneth J. Jr. and Becky Basinger of Jackson, Georgia, Major Dustin S. Basinger of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Melissa and Robert Maloch of Commerce, Georgia, nine great-grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Bette Halavanja of Baden, and a friend Emil Pecori, of Oakdale. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Francis, Jason, Jim, and Wilbur Basinger, three sisters, Sara Roberts, Jane Rager, and Joretta Schoaf.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 25th, from 1-3 p.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a service will follow at 3:15 p.m. Interment will take place at the National Cemetery of Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville. Full military honors will be held by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #862 for their fallen comrade, taking place at the funeral home after the service.

Braden Joseph Pontoli (1990-2026)

Braden Joseph Pontoli, 36, passed away in Malibu, California on September 9th, 2026.

He was the beloved son of Joseph and Heather Pontoli. He was born on June 28th, 1990 in Beaver, which was where he grew up and attended Beaver Area High School, class of 2009. There you could find him leading the band as drum major, singing in choir, performing in musicals, and playing on the worship team at his church. He was proud to have won 2 Mancini awards for his roles in musicals and also to be chosen for All State Choirs. His music teachers all had an impact on him to pursue his own music education path. He went on to follow his love of music and attended Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music, in Berea, Ohio. People cherished all his performances at BW in the Motet Choir, BW Men’s Chorus, Bach Festivals, and the always entertaining Mr. Sun’s Echo. Upon graduating from Baldwin Wallace in 2013 with his Bachelor of Music Education he became the middle school choir director at Learwood Middle School, Avon Lake, Ohio. He loved teaching and was a mentor to many of his students. During his time in Cleveland he collaborated with The Morrison Dance Company, composing music for their dance performances. He was also the Music Director at Rocky River United Methodist Church in Rocky River, Ohio. After teaching for 6 years, he moved to California to attend California Institute of the Arts. He graduated with his Master of Fine Arts in music performance and composition in 2020 and then became an admissions counselor at Los Angeles College of Music. Braden co-established a Nordic choir, Keija Kollektiv with friend Marja, and also was the Music Director at the Claremont United Methodist Church in Claremont, California. He was the worship leader for the California Pacific United Methodist Church Annual Conference 2026 gathering. Braden sang professionally with Los Angeles Master Chorale, The Long Beach Camerata Singers, Catalyst Chamber Choir, Beati Quorum, and the San Diego Symphony Festival Chorus. He also would use his music and singing bowls to host sound baths for relaxation and sound healing. Altadena Heals was an example of him using his music to create a positive, restorative, and hopeful walking sound and art installation. He, along with other musicians and artists, performed in a friend’s beautiful garden for the community after the Eaton fires. A highlight of his was performing with Christina Aguilera, the LA Master Chorale, and LA Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl for the We Love LA concert to honor first responders and the impacted community after the devastating January 2025 fires.

He was the oldest of five children and is survived by one sister, brother-in-law, and niece, McKenna, Sam, and Felicity Potter, three brothers; Landon, Harrison, and Casen Pontoli, all of Beaver, his grandparents,Margie Patterson of Beaver, Sandy and Gary LeRoy of Madison, Joe and Carol Pontoli of Greensburg, and Jack and Sandy Stacy of Beaver, his Partner, Tommy Lei of Pasadena, his goddaughter, Aria Byahatti, and a feline companion, Chloe.

He was preceded in death by his great grandparents: Madge and Ford Patterson, Grayce and Verner Jack Stacy, Genevieve and Gino Aloisi, and Josephine and John Pontoli.

Friends and family will be received on Wednesday, September 23rd from 5-8 P.M., and on Thursday, September 24th, 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. at the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements.

A Celebration of Life Service honoring Braden will be held on Friday, September 25th, at 7 P.M. at Grace Community Church, 9160 Marshall Rd, Cranberry.

Interment will take place at a private ceremony at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to KeijuKollektiv.org, Claremont United Methodist Church 211 W Foothill Boulevard, Claremont, CA 91711, Rocky River United Methodist Church, 19414 Detroit Rd, Rocky River, OH 44116, Grace Community Church, 9160 Marshall Rd, Cranberry Township, PA 16066 and Pathway Church, 239 Braun Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Braden’s love of music started at a very young age when we realized he could play music by ear. Blessed with perfect pitch, he was a talented musician, composer, performer, teacher, sound healer, and friend. Braden was a people person, and made friends, young or old, wherever he was. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and make you feel loved. We will miss every laugh, every beautiful note you sang and played, every performance you directed, every delicious meal you made, every adventure you went on, and most of all your kind, friendly, and generous personality that made everyone feel loved and welcome. “Braden never met a stranger because the minute he met you, he became your friend.”

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Craig A. “Cat” Taormina (Passed on September 21st, 2026)

Craig A. “Cat” Taormina, 66, passed away unexpectedly on September 21st, 2026, at his home in Monaca.

Craig was the beloved husband of Terri Howells Taormina, his wife of 45 years and the love of his life. Their marriage was a lasting example of commitment, companionship, and deep affection. Together, they built a family that was the center of Craig’s world and the source of his greatest pride. He was a devoted father to Dominic Taormina and his wife, Anastasia, Sarah Bierer and her husband, Stephen and Anthony Taormina and his wife, LaDonna. He was a proud grandfather to Dominic, Zackary, Sophia, Angelo, Margot, and Liam. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Gabe.

Craig was the son of Barbara Sue Graham Taormina and the late John A. Taormina. He is also survived by his siblings, David Taormina and his wife, Allison, Dean Taormina and his wife, Niki, and Dona Davis (Patrick). He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Music was one of Craig’s deepest passions. He had a great love of music and played the guitar daily, finding comfort, expression, and joy in every note. His gift for music was shared generously with others, especially through his years of service as a member and deacon of the Church of the Living Christ in Beaver. There, he faithfully served as part of the Praise and Worship Team for many years, offering his talents in worship and helping create an atmosphere of praise that touched many lives. He had also played guitar with several different bands over the years.

Craig also loved to travel and especially treasured time spent at the beach. Year after year, he vacationed at Myrtle Beach, where he found relaxation and happiness in the sights and sounds of the ocean. He also enjoyed traveling to Jamaica on many occasions. In addition to his love of music and travel, Craig was a devoted football fan.

His family will receive friends on Thursday, September 24th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 25th at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Living Christ, 699 Riverview Drive, Beaver. His pastor and brother in law, Pastor David Howells will officiate. Private interment will take place at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, 1270 Chapel Road, Monaca.

To view his video tribute, leave an online condolence or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Craig, please visit the floral store of Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services by clicking here.

William L. “Billy” Estermeyer, Jr. (1954-2026)

William L. “Billy” Estermyer, Jr., 72, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on September 18th, 2026.

He was born in Beaver Falls on June 2nd, 1954, the eldest son of the late William Sr. and Mary Ann (Bayne) Estermyer.

William graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1972 and went on to become co-owner of Estermyer Pump Company in Rochester. He was a devoted fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams and a former member of the Beaver Valley Jaycees, where he was proudly named Jaycee of the Month three times. He also loved bringing people together and was well known for hosting memorable New Year’s Eve parties for many years, creating countless good times and lasting memories with family and friends.

He is survived by his sister, Beth (Jeff) Shafer, his brothers, Tracy (Karen) Estermyer and Tim (Krisa) Estermyer, four nieces, five great nieces and nephews and his great friends, Bill and Sallie.

Friends will be received on Saturday, September 26th from 12 noon until the time of services at 3 p.m. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Interment will be private at Beaver Falls Cemetery, 2045 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of William may be directed to a charity of one’s choice.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Gabauer Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services by clicking here.

Carolyn J. Hoo (1946-2026)

Carolyn J. Hoo, 80, of Ambridge, passed away peacefully on September 21st, 2026. She was born on April 13th, 1946, the daughter of the late Viola and Robert Campbell.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Jarrod Hoo.

She is survived by her children, Christopher (Tonya) Hoo and Eric Hoo, her grandchildren: Krystle (Drew) Hoo, Brandon (Jennifer) Hoo, Chrissy Yingling, Layla Hoo, Brock Hoo, and Zak Berry; as well as her great-grandchildren: Mariah, Riley, Camry, Dominic, Elliana, and Mila; along with her daughter-in-law, Brenda Paulowski.

Carolyn found joy in the simple things in life. She loved reading, traveling, camping, and enjoying the occasional Busch beer. She once bred Chow Chow dogs and had a special place in her heart for all animals. She also had a deep appreciation for Native American culture and art. She was an avid Steelers fan and especially cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren. She was known for her generous heart and caring nature, always willing to open her home to anyone in need. Her warmth, compassion, and love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Services are private for Carolyn. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that monetary donations be made in Carolyn’s honor to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.