William Lloyd James (Passed on June 28th, 2026)

William Lloyd James, 78, of Freedom, passed away on June 28th, 2026. He was born in Homer City, Pennsylvania, and was raised in Freedom.

William was a graduate of Freedom High School and went on to continue his education, earning an Associate degree in accounting. He honorably served his country in the U S Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Korea.

He spent his working years with the Construction and General Laborers Local 833, from which he later retired.

He really enjoyed sports. He was a talented basketball player in both high school and college, and his love of the game remained with him throughout his life. He later continued to give back to the sport as a referee for junior and senior high school basketball games, and coaching his grandson’s youth teams. He was also an avid golfer and found great enjoyment in the friendships and time outdoors that the game provided. He loved watching sports on TV and never missed his grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on at every soccer game, basketball game and track meet.

Another important part of his life was his 25 years of service with the Freedom Volunteer Fire Department.

Above all, he cherished his family. He was devoted to his wife of 54 years, Eleanor. He was a proud father to his son, William (Bill) James and his wife, Autumn, and his daughter, Jessica Melvin and her husband, Jason. He found great joy in being a grandfather to Jarek, Javin, Jersee, Adlee, and Brylee, and he treasured every opportunity to follow their activities and celebrate their accomplishments. He was also blessed to know his great-grandchildren, Tessa and Levi, who brought him additional happiness and pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian James, and a brother, David James. He is survived by his wife, his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, his siblings, Charles James, Dorothy Fraser and Clair James, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received on Thursday, July 2nd from 2-5 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca where military honors will be provided by the Beaver County Special Unit and a blessing service will be held at 5 p.m.

Carole Ann Alberts (Passed on June 27th, 2026)

Carole Ann Alberts, 87, a lifelong resident of Freedom and New Sewickley, passed away on June 27th, 2026 at Ridgecrest in Cranberry Township, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband Ken Alberts, her sister, Joan Coe and her parents, Erma and William (Bud) Adair.

She is survived by her three children, Sharon Alberts – Campbell (Mike), and their children, Jonathan Reagle and Brandy Reagle (Branden), and their children: Maysn, Jayce, Caroleena, Lalayna, Bella and Kal, daughter Tracy Alberts – Wilde (Jim Wilde), and her two children, Matthew Wilde (Marissa Dobson) and their children, Wyatt and Ryleigh Wilde and Brett Torres (Cassidy Negri), and son, K. Scott Alberts (Hyun-Joo Kim) and their children, Juni, Minu, and Seann, along with her lifelong friend, Chris Murphy.

Family and friends will be received at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, on Wednesday July, 1st from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., where a service will be held on Thursday, July 2nd at 10 a.m. SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements. Interment will take place at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be mailed to Prince of Peace, 60 Rochester Road, Freedom, PA 15042 in Carole’s name.

Jason Gregory “Badger” Vos (1977-2026)

Jason Gregory “Badger” Vos, 48, of Bridgewater, passed away unexpectedly on June 24th, 2026, at his home.

He was born in Rochester on December 2nd, 1977, the son of Ruth (McCready) Vos and the late Charles Raymond Vos.

Jason worked at dDaniel Advertising for many years and was a devoted member of the Bridgewater Borough Volunteer Fire Department for 22 years. He was a member of the Marion Hill Alliance Church in New Brighton. He was a selfless man who would do anything to help anyone, at any time. He was proud to volunteer with Heaven Sends Help, a non-profit organization that worked to provide for the needs of others. Often known as an adventurer, he loved to be outdoors, exploring and bearing witness to the beauty of God’s creation.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by two brothers, James and Benjamin Vos, his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, as well as his firefighter brothers and sisters.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, Daniel Vos.

Friends will be received on Monday, July 6th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, July 7th at 11 A.M. with Pastor Jim Krouse officiating. Friends will be received one hour prior to services at 10 A.M. on Tuesday July 7th.

A procession will follow to Bridgewater Borough Volunteer Fire Department, 619 Market Street, Bridgewater for a fireman’s memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jason’s honor may be made to Heaven Sends Help, 307 Russell Drive, New Brighton, PA 15066.

Phyllis (Buse) Cotter Raymond (1926-2026)

Phyllis (Buse) Cotter Raymond, 100, of Chippewa Township, passed away on June 26th, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.

She was born in Mineola, New York, on May 16th, 1926, the daughter of the late Frederic and Emily (Stauderman) Buse. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Warren Cotter and Roger Raymond, her grandson Christopher Cotter and her sister-in-law, Dorothy “Dot” Buse.

Phyllis’ life was marked by steadfast resilience, lifelong learning, and calm determination. She faithfully kept her family connected across generations. Her legacy was built on family meals, holiday dinners, Sunday phone calls, and birthday cards. Her steady presence turned ordinary moments into lasting memories, and her open, generous heart made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

After the death of her first husband, Warren Cotter, she was 33 years old and raising four young children with steady determination and quiet strength. She helped define what it meant to be a modern woman before the phrase was commonly used, serving as president of the local Parent Teacher Organization, taking seven years of night classes earning her Banking Certificate through the American Institute of Banking at Hofstra University, and working for what is now Chase Bank where she worked at the same branch and greeted customers by name until her retirement 25 years later.

A few years before retirement, she married her long-time companion, Roger Raymond. Together, they loved life in Massapequa Park on Long Island, New York, and later enjoyed spending winters in Sarasota, Florida. In Sarasota, she continued her lifelong love of music and playing piano, became actively involved in many local committees, was crowned her community’s Wii Bowling champion, and earned her amateur ham radio license. She remained engaged and contributing there until the remarkable age of 98.

To be near her daughter, she moved to Chippewa Township at the age of 87. There she quickly became a fixture in the community. She was a dedicated walker, an active card player, a member of the Chippewa Women’s Club, and a member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Beaver Falls, part of St. Augustine Parish, where she participated in the VSP (Very Special People) Club. At the age of 90, she converted to Catholicism, a meaningful step in a life filled with faith and trust in God.

She loved to meet new people, introducing herself simply as “Nana.” She openly shared news of her 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild on the way. Nana encouraged each of them to pursue their own interests and talents, and she marveled at their achievements. She was particularly proud of the 50-year history of family members attending SUNY Maritime College, her family’s service in the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy, and the many callings they pursued in engineering, port management, government, education, entertainment, communication, computer sciences, sales, and marketing.

Sunday phone calls were her norm. “Just checking in,” she would say, before launching into stories, updates, memories, and reflections, often peppered with her signature phrase, “In any event…” Her family encouraged her to finish her memoir, fittingly titled To Be Continued, because there were always more stories and more life she wanted to share.

She is survived by her children: William (Kathleen) Cotter, Warren “Peter” (Karen) Cotter, Timothy (Pamela) Cotter, and Phyllis (Richard) Faust, her brother, Frederic “Bill” Buse, her grandchildren: Lauren (P. Kevin) Brobson, Kristen (Mark Holland) Cotter, Justin (Jennifer), Cotter, Raymond (Molly) Cotter, Daniel Cotter, Timothy (Heather) Cotter, Matthew (Natassia) Cotter, Jaclyn Cotter, Stacey (Edward) DelBeccaro, Jodie (Aaron) Safer, and Phillip Faust; as well as her great-grandchildren, Claire (Nathaniel) Stennett, R. William Brobson, Gabriel “Gabe” Brobson, Miranda Cotter-Holland, Phoebe Cotter-Holland, W. Michael Cotter, Megan Cotter, Liam Cotter, David Cotter, Ian Cotter, Jackson Cotter, Riley Cotter, Hayley Cotter, Cameron Cotter, Eleanor “Nora” DelBeccaro, and Maya Safer; along with her nephew, Ronald (Katie) Buse and all the many friends and community members who said, “I want to be like Nana when I grow up.”

Friends will be received on Thursday, July 2nd from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 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, July 3rd at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Catholic Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

In honor of Phyllis’ life, memorial contributions may be made to Boys Town, a nonprofit, nonsectarian child and family care organization she appreciated for their good work. Donations may be made at boystown.org or sent to Boys Town, 14100 Crawford Street, Boys Town, NE 68010.

Interment will be private at Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Blvd., Calverton, NY 11933.

Carol Effie (Merriman) Pisano (1948-2026)

Carol Effie (Merriman) Pisano, 78, of College Hill in Beaver Falls, passed away on June 27th, 2026. She passed away peacefully with her husband Joseph and family by her side. She was born on January 30th, 1948, a daughter of the late Dale Edwin and LauraBelle Vogler Merriman.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her mother and father-in-law Joseph and Angeline Pisano; her sister Georgia Wickline; brother-in-law Joe Oldaker; sister-in-law Cathy Pisano; nephew Scott Taylor; and niece Jessica Pisano.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughters, Stephany Pisano Tepsic, Jennifer (Paul) Hawthorne and Kimberly (Kevin) Enderle. “Nana” Carol cherished her surviving grandchildren: Nicholas (Carissa) Tepsic, Zachary Tepsic, Lindsay Tepsic, Peyton Hawthorne, Olivia Hawthorne, and Cadence Enderle; as well as being especially blessed with her great-grandchildren Ayla (2024) and Carmine Tepsic (2026).

She is also survived by her loving sisters, Ruth Cote and Sandy Blake, her brother, Robert Merriman, her sister-in-law, Marie Oldaker, her brothers-in-law, Anthony Pisano, Ronald (Amy) Pisano, and Robert (Kelly) Pisano and many dear nieces and nephews.

Carol was a graduate of New Brighton High School with its Class of 1965. She married Joseph P. Pisano Jr. on August 24th, 1968. Together they raised their three daughters and shared 58 wonderful years as their family grew. She was a faithful child of God who served Marion Hill Alliance Church in New Brighton as a beloved Sunday School teacher for many years. She also learned to play handbells and ministered through music in the church bell choir, “Joyful Noise.” Through card clubs and Bible studies, she formed many cherished friendships over the years.

In the mid-1980s, she pursued further education and joined the medical staff of surgeon Dr. Brandt and his associates, which later became Heritage Valley Surgical Associates. She retired in 2010 and was honored with a celebration hosted by the wonderful physicians and coworkers she deeply valued.

She deeply loved her family and cherished time spent with her sisters and brother, playing parlor games while sharing laughter and memories of their childhood on Marion Hill. The Annual Merriman Family Reunion, which lasted over two decades, created treasured memories for generations.

The family extends sincere appreciation to the staff of Three Oaks Hospice and Good Samaritan Hospice for their compassionate care, and especially grateful for the loving care, friendship, and support of their wonderful neighbor Sandy Taylor.

Her life was a reflection of faith, love, and devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.  Well done, good and faithful servant!

Friends will be received on Monday, June 29th from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 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 a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 30th at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.

In accordance with Carol’s wishes, she will be cremated following services.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Good Samaritan Hospice House Wexford, 146 Neely School Road, Wexford, PA 15090.

Eleanor M. Jones (1934-2026)

Eleanor M. Jones, 92, of South Heights, passed away on June 25th, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice. She was born in Manhasset, New York on January 2nd, 1934, a daughter of the late Edmond and Eleanor (Krupowicz) Morse. In addition to her parents, Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband, William (“Bill”) Jones, and her sisters, Annette Mehenko and Patricia Sestile. Eleanor and William shared 59 devoted years of marriage.

She is survived by her children: Dennis (Christie) Jones, Timothy “Lindy” (Linda) Jones, Jennifer Bobanic, and William “Scott” Jones; as well as her grandchildren: Samantha (Ace) Hilliard-Jones, Haley (Nathan) Hamons, Kasey Rose Jones, Peyton M. Jones, Andrew Bobanic, Sarah (Logan McCauley) Welch, and Emily Bobanic; along with her great-grandchildren, Weston, Emmit, Caroline, and Margaret “Maggie” ; along with her sister, Betty Livingood.

At a very young age, Eleanor and her sisters moved to Ambridge as their parents sought new opportunities in Pennsylvania. She often enjoyed sharing her unique birth date, 1/2/34. She was a registered nurse and graduated from the Sewickley Valley School of Nursing. She began her career at Sewickley Hospital, before working in private practice. After taking time away from nursing to focus on her family, she returned to the profession and worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in various psychiatric hospitals. On the day she retired, her children arranged for a limousine to bring her home from work; a memory she always cherished. In her spare time, she enjoyed bingo, league bowling, and baking blackberry, cherry, and peach pies. She also kept close friendships with her nursing school classmates, gathering with them regularly for a prayer group and playing cards. She and her husband, William, were famous for their Christmas morning breakfasts. Together, they made the most delicious crepes, home fries, and sausage, and family and friends were always welcome to join them for Christmas brunch. Above all, she was completely devoted to her family; especially her son, William “Scott” Jones.

Her kindness, devotion, unwavering love for her family, and wonderful pies will be deeply missed and forever remembered. She will also forever be remembered as “Meme,” the name her grandchildren called her.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass on Saturday, July 18th at 11 a.m. in the St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 199 McGovern Boulevard, Crescent.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation to the Special Olympics in memory of “Eleanor Jones” by clicking here https://share.google/KaH9ZZ2bcIduu7AyN

Cindy Jean Gima (1958-2026)

Cindy Jean Gima, 67, of Beaver Falls, passed away on June 25th, 2026 at Beaver Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born in Beaver Falls on October 20th, 1958, the daughter of the late Robert and Violet (Evans) Watson. She is survived by her son, Clifford (Sara) Mills, her god-daughter, Michelle Butcher and her children: Kiran, Kendall, Kaden, Hadley, and Maryn; her cousin, Joyce Slovak, along with her beloved fur grandbabies. In addition to her parents, she preceded in death by her cherished tuxedo cat, Shiloh.

Cindy will be remembered as a loving mother and proud patriot whose passions brought joy to everyone around her. She was a devoted Marine Corps mom who took great pride in supporting her son and continued sharing her love of music long after his days in the band at Beaver Falls High School. She had a creative spirit and enjoyed arts and crafts, as well as collecting gnomes, amassing a cherished collection over the years. She was an enthusiastic fan of Pittsburgh sports, especially the Steelers, and could spend hours discussing her favorite soap operas. She also admired Joe Namath, Elvis Presley, and the timeless charm of Betty Boop. Her warmth, creativity, and vibrant personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, July 1st from 2 P.M. until the time of services at 6 P.M. in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 113 Penn Ave New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements. Following visitation, her wishes for cremation will be honored.

John Paul Starasinich (1973-2026)

John Paul Starasinich, passed away on June 21st, 2026, at the age of 53 after a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

He was born in Rochester on March 8th, 1973, a son of Donna (Winters) Starasinich and the late Joseph J. Starasinich Sr. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn (Iorio) Starasinich, his son, Jonathan, his daughter, Paige and his brother, Joseph Starasinich Jr.

John graduated from Beaver Area High School, where he was a member of the golf team. He later attended Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in History. It was there that he met the love of his life, Dawn (Iorio) Starasinich. Together they built a life centered on family, devotion, and shared adventures, celebrating their 24th wedding anniversary last year. Their greatest blessings are their children, Jonathan and Paige.

Above all else, he cherished his family. He shared a special bond with his mother, Donna, and his brother, Joseph, whose presence in his life meant more to him than words could express. He enjoyed spending time with his family and treasured vacations together. Whether visiting the mountains, enjoying snowfall, or exploring new places, John created memories that will be forever treasured by those who knew him.

While family was at the center of his life, he also built a solid career employed by Walt Disney World, the Transportation Security Administration, and Cencora, where he worked as a Patient Services Specialist. He was respected for his dedication and professionalism and formed lasting friendships throughout his career.

He had a lifelong passion for history and was an avid history enthusiast who enjoyed attending historical reenactments. He found peace tending his outdoor garden and took great pleasure in movies, especially the Star Wars series. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully followed the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Penguins. Music was another constant companion in his life, and he especially enjoyed classic rock, particularly Hair Nation.

One of his favorite recent memories was celebrating his anniversary with Dawn on a cruise that included a visit to the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, a destination that perfectly combined his love of travel and history.

He will be remembered for his courage, kindness, devotion to family, and enthusiasm for the people and interests he loved. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to everyone who supported John throughout his illness with prayers, messages, visits, meals, and countless acts of kindness. Your support carried John and his family through the most difficult season of their lives, and your compassion will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN).

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1st from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis.

Interment will be private.

Duilio “Dewey” DiSante (1947-2026)

Duilio “Dewey” DiSante, 79, of Beaver Falls, formerly of Aliquippa and Conway, passed away peacefully on June 21st, 2026 with family by his side.
He was born in Vicalvi, Italy on April 3rd, 1947, a son of the late Quirino and Annunziata DiSante. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sandra (Boni) DiSante, who he spent every ounce of his energy caring for during her final years; and his sister Angela Gidaro. He is survived by his son, Christopher (Brittany) DiSante, his granddaughter, Giovanna and his brother, Ezio (Cathy) DiSante.
Duilio graduated from Aliquippa High School and Gannon University before proudly serving three years in the U.S. Army, including a tour in Vietnam. He retired from HSBC Bank Corp and was a longtime member of St. Titus Catholic Church in Aliquippa. He will be remembered as someone who always put his family before himself.

The DiSante family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Concordia Villa St. Joseph for their love and care provided to Duilio during his time there, who always put a smile on his face, and they will be forever grateful for the support that you gave. In accordance with Duilio’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. Any monetary gifts may be made to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

William J. Seifer (1936-2026)

William J. Seifer, 90, of Economy, passed away peacefully on June 23rd, 2026. He was born on March 4th, 1936, a son of the late William F. and Barbara Seifer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Arley Seifer, and his sister, Arlene Delaich. She is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Kathleen Seifer, his children: Terri (Michael) DeCurtis and William R. Seifer and his girlfriend, Janeil Machiko, Tammy Kelleher, and Wendy (Christopher) Stoll; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Brianna, Brandon, Patrick, Tim, Michael, Chelsie, Trisha, and Stacy; along with his 12 great-grandchildren, including his special little nurse, Octavia, as well as many nieces and dear friends.

William proudly served the City of Pittsburgh as a police officer for nearly 30 years. He was an active member of the Beaver Valley Yacht Club, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 1, the Knights of Columbus and the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, camping, boating and riding his motorcycle with his wife. Above all else, he treasured the time he spent with his family, who were the center of his life.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, June 28th, from 2-4 p.m. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a blessing service will be held on Monday, June 29th at 10:30 a.m. with burial to follow at Rehoboth Cemetery, Conway Wallrose Road, Economy.