Joseph D. Yezzi, Sr. (1937-2025)

Joseph D. Yezzi, Sr. 88, of Center Township, a devoted family man, dedicated public servant, and active member of his community, passed away peacefully on August 30th, 2025.
He was born in Rochester on August 8th, 1937, the son of the late Joseph and Dora Yezzi. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters and a brother-in-law: Mary (Rudolph) Cellini and Italia “Ti” (Rudolph) DiGiorno. He is survived by his wife, Philomena “Cookie” (Labellarte) Yezzi, a devoted son, Joseph (Dorly) Yezzi, three stepchildren, Carrie and Matt Plevel, Walter “ Chip” and Lori Telego and Anthony Telego, three grandchildren, Chase Yezzi, Amanda Telego and fiancée Chaz Wenner, Kayla and Jesse Browder, four great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Joseph built his life around service both to his family and to the public. He worked proudly in law enforcement as an investigator of the Beaver County Police Coordination Center and later owned the title captain. He was instrumental in implementing the 911 call center to promote safety and well-being of others. His career in politics was marked by integrity, fairness, and compassion, earning him the respect of colleagues and community members alike. Beyond his professional life, Joseph had a strong interest in politics and remained deeply engaged in civic affairs. He was a Center Township Supervisor and held several positions within Center Township Water Authority and the Sanitary Authority. He believed in giving back, lending his voice and efforts to causes that strengthened his community and supported the values he held dear. Above all, Joseph’s greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who led by example, teaching those around him the importance of loyalty, kindness, and perseverance.

A visitation for Joseph will be on Wednesday, September 3rd, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of departing prayers at 11:15 a.m. in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in cahrge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa at 12 noon on Wednesday, September 3rd. Private interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa.

Leslie Frances Wilson (Passed on August 27th, 2025)

Leslie Frances Wilson passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 27th, 2025. Leslie was a true humanitarian and citizen of the world, beloved and respected by countless people from all walks of life. She was a mentor to many, and a friend to many, many more: a list too innumerable to acknowledge here. Leslie was a proud alumna of the U.S. Peace Corps, having served as a volunteer in Chumphon, Thailand, in the early 90s. It was during these years that she made life-long friends and found her place in the world of humanitarian services. She had fiery determination wrapped in humor and humanity, she had an unwavering belief in people and the power of communities. Leslie dedicated her life to being a relentless champion to vulnerable peoples in her positions as Associate Director for Refugee Housing Solutions (Church World Services), Azerbaijan and Georgia Country Director (U.S. Peace Corps), Afghanistan Country Director, Iraq Country Director, and Bangladesh Country Director (Save the Children) and as a Development Officer at the American Refugee Committee. In her early career, Leslie worked in higher education institutional advancement and administration at both Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, and her beloved alma mater, Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana. She received her Bachelors in Sociology and Social work from Saint Mary’s, as well as a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) from University of Notre Dame, and Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) from Northwestern University (just for fun!). In 2011, Leslie received the Humanitas Award from the Saint Mary’s College Alumnae Association, an honor of which she was immensely proud. She also served on the Board of Directors of The Border Consortium from 2014 to 2021. Unsurprisingly, Leslie loved international travel and was a founding member of Women on the Move (WOTM), a group of crazy, hardy, fun-loving, wine-drinking broads who over 25 years trekked to England, Spain, Czech Republic, Ireland, Austria, Costa Rica, Iceland, Scotland, The Netherlands, Slovenia and Italy. They also recently enjoyed cruises to Australia/New Zealand and Norway. Leslie is survived by six siblings: Christine Wilson, Bruce Wilson (Rick), Robert Wilson (Renee), Amy Wilson, and Jenni Wilson (Marty), and Amy Ruby; as well as her godchildren: Emma Colley-Mazumder (Shom), Elise Pope, and Vivienne Pope; nephews Reed Wilson (Lilian) and Ian Colley; along with her great nephew and niece, Lee Aitkin Wilson and Marion Townsend Wilson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Evelyn Wilson, her nephew, Grant Wilson, and her brother-in-law, Rick Solis. Leslie will always be known as THE Bossy Sister to her six bossy siblings, always ready for a good fight followed up with lots of adult beverages. The love was fierce. The family is planning a memorial service soon and will have details for anyone who is interested. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice. Some of Leslie’s favorites were the Beaver Memorial Library, Planned Parenthood, Every Campus a Refugee (ECAR), and the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. If anyone was destined to be a guardian angel to her siblings, her god children, and her friends, cheering us on to listen harder, act braver, and keep the less fortunate at the heart, it was Leslie. Please honor her by having a glass (or two) of really good wine, taking a long bike ride, going to the symphony, or practicing yoga, and for goodness’ sake, pay attention to your heart health.

John Robert Campbell (1943-2025)

John Robert Campbell, 82, of Economy Borough, passed away on August 10th, 2025, at UPMC Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh following a brief illness. He was born on July 18th, 1943, the son of the late Harold and Helen Campbell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Nancy L. Campbell, whom he missed dearly, his sister, Dora Karon; and his devoted dog, Moki. He is survived by his daughter, Marcie (Campbell) Presto, his son-in-law, Michael Presto, his son, John F. Campbell, his daughter-in-law, Tawnia (Biskup) Campbell, three grandchildren, Madison (Shane) Reger, Kelcie (Travis) Koontz and Joshua Campbell and three great-grandchildren, Rowan Koontz, Malia Koontz, and Ronald Reger, his brother-in-law, Rick Butler. He spent many years working in the construction industry and enjoyed 27 years of retirement as a proud member of Laborers Local 833. In retirement, John became a partner and co-founder of C & M Archery. He also dedicated his time to the community as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 414, a member of the Saint James Masonic Lodge, and was instrumental in helping establish the Veteran’s Memorial in Economy Borough. John was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting during the fall and winter seasons and treasured his summers at camp fishing with his best friends. Whether on the boat or at camp, he could often be found whistling a tune. John will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Family and friends will be received on Saturday, September 6th, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements and where a Masonic service will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 12 noon.

L.W. Brown (1960-2025)

L.W. Brown, 65, of Midland, formerly of Weirton, West Virginia, passed away in his sleep on August 26th, 2025.

He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on June 26th, 1960, a son of the late L.W. and Evelyn Brown, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Jessie Eskridge and his sister, Annie Gomez. He is survived by his wife, Dawn Brown, his sons, Larry, Christian and Justin Brown, his daughter, Breona Buffington, his brothers, Willie Eskridge, David and Phillip Brown, his sister, Jennifer Baker and his grandchildren: Malachi, Donovan, Shantelle, Kiiona, Alaiya Brown and Iverson Buffington.

L.W. lived in Weirton, West Virginia for most of his life. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army who had worked in construction. He was a faithful member of Holiness Church of Christ of Industry.

Friends will be received on Thursday, September 4th, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Holiness Church of Christ, 6349 Tuscarawas Road, Industry.

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

Patsy “Ross” Capparelli (1947-2025)

Patsy “Ross” Capparelli, 78, of Beaver Falls, passed away on August 30th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in Beaver Falls on July 19th, 1947, the son of the late Patsy J. and Helen H. (Hamilton) Capparelli. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Regina Daugherty. Patsy was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of the Beaver Falls Owls Club. He enjoyed golfing with friends and collecting old records and other memorabilia. He was also Catholic by faith and an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan. Throughout his life, he held various positions and jobs, most recently (his favorite) working at Home Depot as a cashier.  He enjoyed the people, handing out lollipops to the children and for the past five years, setting a record getting credit apps for the store. He is survived by many long-time good friends, as well as the friends he made at Home Depot.

A celebration of Patsy’s life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 340 Third Street, Beaver, who was honored to care for Patsy.

Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Patsy’s name by clicking this link here. Give hope to kids with cancer.

Earl G. Spencer (1932-2025)

Earl G. Spencer, 93, of Baden, passed away on August 28, 2025, at Cambridge Village of Beaver Falls. He was born in Punxsutawney on August 3rd, 1932, a son of the late Guy and Alta (Lowmaster) Spencer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dorothy States Spencer, two sisters and two brothers. He is survived by his sons, Dennis (Eileen) Spencer and Kevin (Susan) Spencer, his daughters, Lorie (Robert) Schwertz and Lisa (Kevin) Allego and Carolyn Spencer, five granddaughters, Tracy, Laina, Alyssa, Sara and Emily; as well as nine grandsons: Nicholas, Reed, Joshua, Eric, Jacob, Jordan, Collin, Riley and Jeremey; along with five great-granddaughters, Aylish, Saorshe, Olivia, Megan, and Ashton; as well as six great-grandsons, Lawson, Miles, Aiden, Archer, Colter, Ryatt and another great-grandson on the way and a brother, Donald Spencer.

Earl worked as a welder for American Bridge. He worked for American Bridge for 35 years up until his retirement.  Earl loved to hunt and fish.  He would go elk hunting in Montana and take fishing trips to Canada.  Above all, Earl’s true passion in life was his family.  He was a great husband, father and provider.  Earl will be loved and missed always.

At the family of Earl’s request, his services are private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

Edna C. Curtaccio (1933-2025)

Edna C. Curtaccio, 92, formerly of Bridgewater, passed away on August 27th, 2025, at Providence Health and Rehabilitation Center of Beaver Falls.

She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on July 20th, 1933, a daughter of the late Harry and Mary Ann (Call) Robinson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Curtaccio, as well as her siblings: Richard, Herbert, Mary Elizabeth, Margaret, Lilly, and Jane. She is survived by her sons, John (Robin) Curtaccio and Michael Curtaccio, her grandchildren: Joshua (Beth) Curtaccio, Lucas (Christina) Curtaccio, Mitchell (Nicole) Curtaccio, Christina Curtaccio and her fiancé Chris, Laura Curtaccio, and Patti (Derek) Egolf; as well as seven great-grandchildren: Mara, Easton, Lucas, Addison, Finn, Colt, and Carson; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Following her high school graduation, Edna received her credentials as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She later retired from the former Beaver County Geriatric Center following many years of faithful service.  She was a devoted member of Saints Peter & Paul Church of Beaver, part of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, where she served as a greeter. In her free time, Edna was always known to be walking around town and was affectionately called the “Energizer Bunny”.

In keeping with the wishes of the family of Edna, all of her services will be held privately.

Interment will be in Spring Grove Cemetery, 1280 Lisbon Street, East Liverpool, Ohio.

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, was honored to care for Edna and her family during this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Edna’s honor can be made to Our Lady of the Valley Parish (St. Peter and Paul), 200 3rd St Beaver, PA 15009 or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

William D. Bair, Sr. (1936-2025)

William D. Bair, Sr., 88, passed away on August 30th, 2025 surrounded by his three children. He was born on September 15th, 1936, a son of the late Hugh (Ted) and Elizabeth (Mamone) Bair. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Teddy, three brothers, Frank, Robert, Jack and a sister Theresa. He is survived by his son, William(Teresa) Bair, two daughters, Nina Ragozzino and Pauline(Scott) Engle, five grandchildren: Lee(Nick) Stein, Jenna(James) Johnston, Michael(Ewelina) Ragozzino, Chasity(Jason) Laufman and Josh Engle, as well as six great-grandchildren: Ava, Jazmine, Mateo, lzayah, Ian and Andi; along with one brother, Charles(Sherry) Bair and sisters-in-law, Mary Bair, Rosie(Frank) Barrela and Marcella Maldonado and many nieces and nephews.

William was a U.S. Army Veteran who served during the Korean War. While stationed in New Mexico, he met his beautiful wife, Dorothy. They married and made their home in Daugherty Township. He retired from Babcock and Wilcox and Majors Electric. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who was loved by all.

The family of William would like to thank his wonderful family and friends for being there and the countless visits especially Steve, Dale, Rose & Dick, Reynoldo and Janet. The family of William would also like to thank Celebration Villa, Beaver Valley Rehabilitation and the Angels of Gateway Hospice.

In accordance with William’s wishes, all services will be private and services and arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Marie Minor (1949-2025)

Marie Minor, 76, of Ambridge, passed away on August 27th, 2025. She was born on July 29th, 1949, the daughter of the late John H. and Doris M. Minor. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Fanny and Henry Minor, her maternal grandparents, Walter and Marie Milligan, Sr., her uncle, Walter E. Milligan, Jr., and her aunt and uncle, Margaret and John Smith. She is survived by her cousins, Kathleen (George) Mendez and Suzanne (A.J. Miller) Connors; great cousins, Corey and Timothy Connors and Michael Mendez, along with her special friend, Bradley Dornish.

Marie worked for many years in the medical field, specializing in optometry. She later helped operate JDM Realty and also drove for Uber and Lyft. She had a lifelong love of animals, especially her parrots and her beloved dogs, Harley and the late Lucky. Known for her kindness and loyalty, she was a devoted friend to many.

A Celebration of Life for Marie will be held on Saturday, September 13th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 8360 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Mary Jo Nahod (1973-2025)

Mary Jo Nahod (Josapak), 52, of Fombell, passed away peacefully at her home under hospice care on August 27th, 2025. She was born in Sewickley on August 17th, 1973, a daughter of Mary Ann Persson-Josapak and the late Steven Josapak. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her devoted husband, Michael Nahod, her siblings: Donna (Dennis Ferguson) Josapak, Steve (Sandi) Josapak, David (Kim Crognale) Josapak, and James Josapak; as well as her cherished nieces and nephews, Austin, Shane, and Taylor Josapak. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her beloved pets, who held a special place in her heart.

Mary Jo was a proud graduate of Freedom High School with their Class of 1991. She went on to study at the Pittsburgh Career Institute, where she earned her credentials as a veterinary technician. She dedicated her career to caring for animals, working in several veterinary clinics before finding her home at Pets in Harmony.

Mary Jo was known for her kind and compassionate spirit. She offered advice and support to anyone in need, especially when it came to caring for their pets. Even throughout her own illness, she continued to put others first. She loved traveling and spending time with her husband, especially riding their motorcycle with their dog, Nero. She shared a close bond with her brother Jim and cherished their adventures together. Her love for animals extended to visiting zoos whenever possible, but none compared to the devotion she had for her dog, Nero, and her cat, Terra.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her mother-in-law, Mary, and her neighbor, Valerie, for the care and kindness they showed Mary Jo, as well as to Family Hospice for their exceptional support.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, September 2nd, from 4–7 p.m. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 3rd, at 10:30 a.m. at Good Samaritan Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery of New Sewickley.

Donations can be made to a local shelter or Family hospice.