Category: Obituaries

Agnes C. Sayers (1938-2025)

Agnes C. Sayers, 89, of Beaver Falls, passed away on November 12th, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospice in Wexford. She was born in Monaca on March 28th, 1936, the daughter of the late Louis and Caroline Havlin Baxa. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Donald L. Sayers, Sr., two brothers, Frank L. Baxa and Louis E. Baxa, as well as a beloved friend, Eleanor Dishler.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Terry L. and Darlene J. Sayers, of North Carolina, a companion, Jim Dishler, two grandsons, Jason L. Sayers and his wife Rebecca, of North Carolina, and Donald L. Sayers II of Tennessee, one great-granddaughter, Caroline, Jim’s family, Donna L. and Paul Hickey of New Sewickley Township, Linda M. and David Fritsch of New Sewickley Township, James E. and Holly Dishler of Rochester Township, seven grandchildren: Nicole, P.J., David Jr., Tyler and his wife, Jaci, Jocelyn, Heather and her husband, Jeremy and Brandon and his wife, Hope; as well as nine great-grandchildren: Bennett, Hunter, Ace, Quinn, Charlotte, Deacon, Amelia, Jameson and Luka. She is also survived by her nieces, Becky Everett and Susan DeAngelo and very close friends, Steve Karaisz and Donald and Jessica Karaisz, as well as numerous other nieces and nephews, and a K-9 Companion, Rebel.

Agnes was a homemaker, a housewife and a former employee with the former Meier Glass Company of North Rochester. She was a member of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church in Rochester and Our Lady of The Valley Parish, where she was a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 580. Friends will be received on Tuesday, November 18th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 19th, at 10 a.m. at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester.

Interment will follow in St. Cecilia Cemetery, 761 Allendale Road, New Brighton. Memorial contributions may be made to Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001 or Good Samaritan Hospice House, 146 Neely School Road, Wexford, PA 15090. The family would like to thank the Good Samaritan Hospice, especially the Hospice Visiting Nurse, Jen and their staff.

John E. Fedorchak (1941-2025)

John E. Fedorchak, 84, of Ohioville, passed away at home on November 10th, 2025. He was born in Pittsburgh on August 22nd, 1941, a son of the late John and Grace Fedorchak. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Nick Fedorchak and Robert “Red” Langsdale. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Kurfess Fedorchak of Ohioville, his sons, John (Sue) Fedorchak and Rob (Laura) Fedorchak, all of Pittsburgh, his daughter, Grace (Sterling) Taylor, also of Pittsburgh, his brother, Edward Fedorchak, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

John was a resident of Ohioville for 40 years who retired as a banking security specialist. His true passion was his farm, Horse Around Acres, where he and his wife Mary boarded horses. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved bailing hay and working the farm, along with hunting and fishing.

Friends will be received on Monday, November 17th, from 3-6 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s name may be made to the American Red Cross, PO Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037 or https://www.redcross.org, or K9s for Warriors, 114 Camp K9 Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081, or https://donate.k9sforwarriors.org.

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

Helen R. McNear (1929-2025)

Helen R. McNear, 96, of Monaca, passed away on November 11th, 2025. She was born in New Brighton on November 10th, 1929, a daughter of the late Howard and Annabelle Gossard. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Robert McNear, a daughter, Roberta McNear, a great grandson, Cameron and her siblings: Howard Gossard Jr., Glenn Gossard, Dorothy Gossard, James Gossard, and Marge Zeider. She is survived by her two daughters, Connie (Rod) Gasche and Mary (Matt) Petrella, her grandchildren: James (Nikki) Gasche, Holly (Ricky) Seltz, Tracy (Scott Kilzer) Tharp, Gordon Gasche, and Vanessa Gasche Maureen Fitzsimmons Amy Tilly; as well as her great grandchildren: Tyler, Taylor, Ethan (Lexie), Jayden, Jordan, Sydney, Bryce, Payton, Brandon, Noah, Matthew; along with great great grandchildren: Hayes, Sabrina, Bennett, Presley, Mia, Natalie, and Dominic; cherished and loved by Helen, in addition to Susan Motter and Deena Johnson.

Helen was a longtime and active member of the First Wesleyan Church in Rochester. She enjoyed daily devotions, gardening, puzzles and crocheting. Her real love was her family. She loved spending time cooking and baking with and for her family and hosting Sunday dinners for them throughout the years.

Friends will be received on Monday, November 17th from 3-7 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements. The service is private. Private interment will take place in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 378 Jefferson Street, Rochester, PA 15074.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Good Samaritan Hospice for their wonderful care of Helen.

Terry Hawkins (1937-2025)

Terry Hawkins, 87, passed away on November 11th, 2025 at Cedar Hill Rehabilitation Center in Coraopolis. He was born on December 7th, 1937 and was preceded in death by his beautiful and beloved wife, Ginny and his parents. He is survived by his brother, James Hawkins, his dear friend, Pam Robison and her children: Brendan, Kasey, George and Cameron. He is also survived by numerous friends: Rick Granati of “G” Force, Bill Jander, Adam Revelant, Mike Neely, Dave Burhenn, Adrian Wooly, Web Robinson and Fred Perotta, along with many that are deceased, his best friend since the age of 8, Tom Robinson and his wife Gay, as well as: Jerry Stirling, Mike McReady, Rocky Palumbo, Jim and Mary Pasquale and Don Caputo.

Terry was a resident of Freedom for many years and was the owner of Hawkins Music Store in New Brighton for 51 years. He started Hawkins Music Store in Rochester and closed that location shortly after opening the New Brighton location. His instruments were repaired and restored at the very capable hands of John Roebuck. He was an accomplished musician and played trumpet at the age of 15 with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony. He performed at numerous nite spots from the Polo Lounge in Pompano Beach Florida to the Top of the Triangle in Pittsburgh. He played piano at the Wooden Angel in Beaver every week for 35 years. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1955 and attended Geneva College and Point Park University. He was inducted into the Beaver County Hall of Fame. He was also a six year veteran of the US Army 347th Quarter Master at Fort Dix, New Jersey where he was the company bugler.

In lieu of flowers, he would like donations to go to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Rd, Aliquippa, PA 15001, in honor of his beloved cat, Bella, who passed away on April 19th, 2025.

Friends will be received on Sunday, November 16th, from 3-7 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester, 502 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Private interment will take place in Oak Grove Freedom Cemetery, 1101 9th Street Extension, Freedom.

Michelle M. Lester (1968-2025)

Michelle M. Lester, 57, of Harmony Township, passed away at her home on November 12th, 2025. She was born on June 22nd, 1968. She is survived by her best friend and husband of 25 years, Edward Maus, her beloved son, Logan C. Maus, and her cherished pets, Milo and Riley.

Michelle was a graduate of Ambridge Area High School. She was a proud Christian who enjoyed attending church when her health allowed. She loved going to the movies and watching game shows, especially Let’s Make a Deal. She also enjoyed visiting the park with her dogs, spending time in the sun, and, most of all, being with her family. Services are private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Mark P. Rawl (1962-2025)

Mark P. Rawl, 63, of New Brighton, passed away at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh on November 10th, 2025, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Ellwood City on August 7th, 1962, a son of the late Clayborne Rawl Jr. and Edith Delores Robinson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Craig and Keith Rawl. He is survived by his sons, Antwoine Lamar Rawl and Pierce William Rawl, his daughter, Martika (Adam) Beaver, his brother, Clayborne Rawl III, his sisters, Judy Lindsey, Dawn Monteiro-Jackson and Jackie Rawl and 16 grandchildren.

Mark’s life was filled with laughter, love, and a deep passion for sports, especially his Pittsburgh Pirates and Dallas Cowboys. His enthusiasm was contagious and brought everyone around him together. He had a gift for humor. Mark could make anyone laugh, no matter the situation. His quick wit, joyful spirit, and ability to find the bright side of life made him the heart of every gathering. Beyond this, Mark was devoted to his family. He loved deeply and unconditionally, and his greatest joy was spending time with the people who meant the most to him.

A Celebration of Mark’s life will be held by his family at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mark P. Rawl, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Connie S. Woods (1953-2025)

Connie S. Woods, 72, of New Brighton, passed away at Heritage Valley Beaver on November 12th, 2025. She was born in Gassaway, West Virginia, on March 26th, 1953, the daughter of the late Garnet and Frances (Boone) Putnam. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Woods. She is survived by her daughter, Madelyn (Richard) Woods, her grandson, Darren Woods and three great-grandchildren, Kaylessa Woods, Kyrah Woods and Elias Woods.

Connie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and more who lived a life defined by love, hard work, and quiet strength. She spent many years at Traco, where her dedication and kindness earned her the friendships of those she worked alongside. When she retired, she turned her full attention to the people and things she cherished most.

Connie had a gift for making others feel cared for. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, always filled with the comforting smells of something cooking. She loved new recipes and watching cooking shows for inspiration, often adding her own special touches that made every meal uniquely hers.

Family was everything to her. She was happiest when surrounded by those she loved. Connie lived a very simple life, but one rich with meaning. She didn’t need much to be happy, just her family, a good meal, and time to enjoy the little things.

In keeping with Connie’s simple nature and in accoardance with her wishes, no services are to be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Connie S Woods, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Betty Louise Murphy (1934-2025)

Betty Louise Murphy, 91, formerly of Center Township, passed away peacefully in Martha’s Vineyard in Masschusetts on November 3rd, 2025, where she had made her home for the past six years.

She was born on October 19th, 1934, a daughter of the late Elsie R. (Engle) Patton and Phillip T. Patton Sr. of Center Township. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Edward T. Murphy Jr. and her siblings, Phillip Patton Jr. and Barbara Rishel. She is survived by her sons and families: Edward T. (and Roberta) Murphy III of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, John P. (and Randy Jardin) Murphy of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts and Kevin D. (and Ronni) Murphy of Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Heather (and wife Ashley) of Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts and Justin Murphy of Pawtucket, Rhode Island. She is also survived by her siblings: William R. Patton, Terry Patton, Edward Patton, and Ellen Eberhardt; as well as their families.

Betty was a proud graduate of Monaca High School with the Class of 1952 who began her career at St. Jo Lead shortly after graduation. She was also a dedicated member of the Pennsylvania State Grange and a longtime member of North Branch United Presbyterian Church in Monaca. On September 28th, 1957, Betty married the love of her life, Edward Thomas Murphy, Jr. Together they built a beautiful life and raised their three sons. The family later settled in Barrington, Rhode Island, a community Betty cherished deeply. She worked for the Town of Barrington for nearly 30 years, all while being a devoted wife, mother and friend.

After retirement, Betty returned to her family homestead in Center Township, where she enjoyed reconnecting with her roots and spending time with family. In her later years, she found joy and comfort living on Martha’s Vineyard, a place where she had long spent much of her free time and held many fond memories, surrounded by the love of her family, friends and the island’s natural beauty. “Bound for the Island” was something you would famously hear Betty quote.

Family and friends will be received at 12 noon on Friday, November 21st, at North Branch United Presbyterian Church, 139 N Branch Rd, Monaca. Graveside service to follow in Union Cemetery, 1346 Chapel Road, Monaca. Arrangements have been entrsuted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Betty’s name to your local animal shelter, a cause close to her heart.

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

Brian Scott McNamara (1979-2025)

Brian Scott McNamara, 46, passed away peacefully on the morning of November 11th, 2025, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was born in Rochester on April 17th, 1979, a son of Burt and Carol McNamara. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his loving wife, Ingrid, his children, Greta and Oscar, his brother, James (Amy) McNamara, his twin sister, Bridgit (Jay) Inman, his aunt, Carol Tanner, his mother-in-law, Karen Bersaas, his sister-in-law, Monique Albrecht and his beloved nieces and nephews: Josh (Ashley), Hunter, Dylan, Grace, Lennon, Sienna and Valentina. He will also be deeply missed by many friends and extended family members.

Brian was a 1997 graduate of Freedom Area High School who went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems from the University of Pittsburgh in 2002. His education led to a dedicated 20-year career with Hussey Copper, where he served as Director of IT. Brian was known for his charismatic personality and a laugh that could light up any room. On June 17th, 2013, Brian married the love of his life, Ingrid Natasha (Albrecht) McNamara, in McDonald, Pennsylvania. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two wonderful children, Greta (12) and Oscar (9). Brian cherished watching his children play soccer, golfing with his dad, and spending weekends camping with family and friends.

To honor Brian’s legacy, donations may be made at: https://giveahand.com/fundraiser/for-brians-bigmacs-cancer-treatments.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 15th, from 2–4 P.M. and again from 5 P.M. until the time of service at 7 P.M., in the Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Diana Lynn (Stewart) DeMasso (1957-2025)

Diana Lynn (Stewart) DeMasso, 68, of Moon Township, passed on November 12th, 2025 in Harmony at Diamond Ridge in Moon Township. She was born in McKees Rocks on February 25th, 1957, a daughter of Betty Jane (Bruno) Stewart and the late William C. Stewart. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her sister, Maureen Luzik (Brian), her nieces, Alaina MacFarlane (Patrick), Kirsten Barton (Jeremy), her nephew, Brent Luzik (Madison), her great nieces & nephews, Vivian & Carina MacFarlane, Boyd Barton and Brooks Luzik, her special friend and bonus sister, Maureen Heilmann (Bud) and their son, Nick. In addition to her father, Diana was preceded in death by her husband David DeMasso in 2007.

Diana worked at Ohio Valley Hospital for over 42 years in the Respiratory Care & Sleep Center. She had a special love for dogs and was a strong advocate for pet adoptions. She volunteered at Animal Friends for over 10 years.

Friends will be received on Friday, November 14th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Moon Township. Please meet at the funeral home on Saturday, November 15th at 10 A.M. Committal and entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Road, Coraopolis.

Memorial contributions can be made to Animal Friends, at www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org.