Elizabeth (Betty) Polito Ostrander Christopher (1938-2026)

Elizabeth (Betty) Polito Ostrander Christopher, 87, of Baden, passed away peacefully on March 3rd, 2026. She spent her last 10 days under wonderful care, surrounded by family and friends who came to say goodbye and tell stories at the Good Samaritan Hospice House in Wexford.

Betty was born in Ambridge on October 14th, 1938, a daughter of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Polito. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, James (Marianne) Christiana, her brother, Russell (Lucille) Christiana, her sister, Catherine (Sam) Lashuk, her special sister of the heart, Theresa (Daniel) Wozniak and her husbands, Walter Ostrander and Bill Christopher.

She is survived by 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Julie & Alan Auble and Elizabeth & Michael Steinmetz and the grandchildren who adored her: Matthew & Allison Auble, Mitchell & Brittany Auble, Steven Dobbins, Megan (Dobbins) & Kody Kocol. She had three great-grandchildren, Magnolia, Jace and Montgomery Auble. She also loved her step children and their families who came into her life as adults, Adam Christopher & his daughter, Sara and Lisa Harding, & her son, Adam. She will be forever cherished by a large extended family of nieces and nephews and cousins, and so many friends of all ages.

Elizabeth was raised in Ambridge and formed many lifelong friendships there. She raised her family in Cranberry Township, adding many more long-time friends, and eventually returned to Baden where she lived and spent many years with family and friends around her. From her earliest years, three things stood out about Betty. She loved people and people loved her. She surrounded herself with loyal friends and could turn a stranger into a friend in just a few moments with them. Her laughter and love of life drew people in and her loyalty kept them in her life. Everyone knew they could stop at her house day or night and be met with food for the body and the soul. She loved music. She had a beautiful voice and a great memory for music. She knew the lyrics of thousands of songs and used music to reach out when words might fail. From Broadway to pop to country to rock, music was a part of her and she never missed a chance to see a live show or concert, especially if it was at a casino. She loved animals. Her big heart extended to all of God’s creatures. She always took care of her cats, stray animals, and wildlife, no matter where she lived. In her later years, caring for her beloved cats and the poor abandoned animals in the area gave her purpose and filled her heart.

In accordance with Elizabeth’s request, there will be no funeral or viewing. Instead, she wanted everyone to remember her being full of life and love. Her family will gather at a later date for a final farewell. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

Donations in her name can be sent to Rainbow Veterinary Hospital, 129 State Route 168, Darlington, PA 16115, or Good Samaritan Hospice House, 146 Neely School Rd, Wexford, PA 15090.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth “Betty” Christopher, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Judith Ann Lewis (Passed on March 3rd, 2026)

Judith Ann Lewis, 82, of Beaver, passed away on March 3rd, 2026. She was born in Sewickley, a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Bell Bull. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Les Bull. She is survived by her brother, Pat Bull and her sister, Janice Bull, along with many nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Judith graduated from Aliquippa School of Cosmetology and worked as a beautician for over 30 years. She worked in Naples, Florida and when she came home, worked in a management position for Shears of Sears. She was strong and deeply private and was also wonderfully funny. She was also a lung cancer survivor who met life’s hardships with quiet courage and a sense of humor that never left her. She also loved arts and crafts, gardening, and her family very much.

To share online condolences, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

There are no services at this time for Judith. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Paige L. (Porter) Thompson (1946-2026)

Paige L. Thompson, 79, formerly of Ellwood City, passed away on March 4th, 2026, at Concordia Villa St. Joseph in Baden.

She was born in Canonsburg on June 30th, 1946, a daughter of the late Perry and Burney (Kauffeld) Porter. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Thompson, her sister-in-law; Joyce Porter and her brother-in-law; Fred Oberg. She is survived by three daughters, Kim (Vic) Rangel, Kristin (Eric) Oberg and Jamie (Steve) Floyd, seven grandchildren: Giana Dillan (Rangel) and Trey Dillan and Bella Roberts (Rangel) and Ryan Roberts, Hannah Oberg-Eum (Oberg) and Jaejin Eum, Emma and Porter Oberg, Gavin and Liam Floyd; as well as two brothers, Terry (Sue) Porter and Rick Porter and a sister, Jeanne Oberg.

Paige was a past member of the Westminster United Presbyterian Church in New Brighton. She lived the life of the ideal 1950’s housewife. She married the love of her life, junior high sweetheart, Jim. A few years later, they welcomed their 1st daughter, Kim, while she and Jim lived in Germany. Once the Army sent them back to the US, the family grew to a party of 5 with the births of Kristin and Jamie. When her role as wife and mother took full effect, she was content to be the stay-at-home domestic engineer who always knew where dad’s black socks were, ironed our favorite jeans before we needed to get to school, and made sure she scrapbooked our every accomplishment! She was her family’s biggest cheerleader at all times! Her devotion to her husband and her girls would have made even June Cleaver take notes on how to be a caring wife and mother. She had an unwavering sense of pride in her family and everything they achieved. Brownie Day Camp Queen may have been her claim to fame at one point, but being “Mimi” was certainly her favorite title. Once we, her girls, started families of our own, her wholehearted love of her grandkids was palpable. Becoming a “Mimi” was such a thrill to her. She enjoyed shopping and spending time with her family. She was always up for a detailed conversation about what was going on in everyone’s day. Her early love of “All My Children” was replaced by the Hallmark Channel in later years. She loved a good romance—and she lived a real one with Jim for over 50 years! She was polite and proper. She never complained, except if there was “thick meat,” something yellow, or swiss cheese, her “#1 most hated cheese.” She was content to sit and watch her beautiful family dance, sing, play sports, and be silly. She just soaked it all in. In the end, her family surrounded her constantly, reminding her of how much they loved her and how much they knew she loved them. She taught her family to love the Lord, and now HE has called her home. She is together again with Jim, probably slow dancing to Motown music right now.

Friends will be received on Friday, March 6th from 4-7 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where an additional viewing will be held on Saturday, March 7th, from 10 a.m. until the time of a service at 11 a.m. Her nephew, Austin Oberg, will be the celebrant.

Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Paige L. (Porter) Thompson, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc.

Ann G. (Gooley) Larson (1932-2026)

Ann G. (Gooley) Larson, 93, of Moon Township, passed away on February 27th, 2026 at Apple Blossom Senior Living in Moon Township. She was born in Jackson Heights, New York on May 11th, 1932, a daughter of the late Valentine Gooley and Anne (Klein) Gooley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, James M. Larson, as well as her siblings, Valentine, Andrew, Elizabeth, and Virginia. She is survived by her seven children: Christopher Larson (Christine) of Connecticut, Mary Beth Jackson (Matthew) of Illinois, Robert Larson (Darlene) of Minnesota, Lisa Larson of Connecticut, Laura Lowen of Pennsylvania, John Larson (Vanessa) of Moon Township, Virginia Korzilius and Moon Township; as well as twenty grandchildren: Colin, Tierney, Shannon, Riley, Brendan & Partick Larson, Madeline, Graham & Charlie Jackson, Reed, Grace & Matthew Larson, Justin & Candy Lowen, Bailey, Tristan & Gabby Larson, Viktor, Anna & Eliza Korzilius; as well as one great grandchild, Miller Larson.

Ann attended Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica and in Queens, New York graduating from High School in 1950. She went on to attend Fordham University graduating in 1954 and was an elementary education teacher in New York City for three years before marrying James (Jim) Larson in 1957. She devoted herself to raising seven children, along with the dogs and cats who were always part of the family. While caring for her busy household, she still found time to enjoy her bridge club and bowling league. Most of all, he cherished time spent with her family and friends, who were the center of her life.

Friends will be received on Saturday March 7th from 1 p.m. until the time of a Blessing service at 3 p.m. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of her arrangements. Interment at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Road, Coraopolis will take place at a later date.

Jeffrey Conte (1960-2026)

Jeffrey Conte, 65, of Moon Township, passed away unexpectedly on February 27th, 2026. He was born in Ellwood City on October 27th, 1960, a son of the late Louis and Sally Conte. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Ethan Conte, and his sister in law, Patricia Aulgur. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jill Conte, his daughter and son in law, Kallie and Zachary Kelly, his brothers, Louis (Mary) Conte Jr., Randall Conte, and Kevin (Sandy) Conte, four brothers in law: William (Tracy) Coolidge, Scott (Joda) Coolidge, Jeff (Shirlee) Coolidge, and Todd (Missy) Coolidge; as well as his sister in law, Pamela (Jay) Murphy, and many cherished nieces and nephews: Jacqlyn, Jenna, Allaire, Grace, Patrick, Lyndsey, Zeke, Brad, Megan, Blake, Matt, Kate, Timmy, Todd, Anna, Jake, Tyler, Lauren, and Anna Marie. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Molly.

Jeffrey was a proud graduate of Ellwood City High School and Lock Haven University. After earning his B.A. in Education, he began his teaching career in Elkland, Pennsylvania, and later joined the South Side School District, where he dedicated 34 years to teaching students with special needs. During his time at South Side, he also coached basketball and baseball, sharing his love of sports and positively influencing countless students. He was a devoted Pittsburgh sports fan who never missed the Pirates’ Home Opener and loved cheering on the Steelers and Penguins. He was also deeply involved with Special Olympics for many years, an experience made especially meaningful because he shared it with his brother Ethan. Some of his happiest times were spent cheering on his daughter and her friends during their soccer games: he never missed one. He loved being outdoors: working in the yard, landscaping, boating, and fishing, and he especially cherished family trips to Rehoboth Beach. Music was always a part of his life. His favorite song, “I’m Not Here for a Long Time, I’m Here for a Good Time,” captured his outlook perfectly. He was always dancing, singing confidently (and often off key), and bringing joy everywhere he went. Above all else, he loved his family and friends deeply. His huge, unforgettable hugs and his big, radiant smile will be profoundly missed. His warmth, humor, and loyal heart touched everyone who knew him.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, March 14th from 1–4 p.m. at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of his arrangements, with a celebration of his life to follow at that funeral home.

Rose Marie (Casciato) Sebastian (1930-2026)

Rose Marie (Casciato) Sebastian, 95, formerly of Chippewa Township and West Mayfield, passed away peacefully on February 28th, 2026, with loved ones by her side.

She was born on April 22nd, 1930, a daughter of the late Thomas and Matilda (Gizzi) Casciato, formerly of Homewood-Racine, Pennsylvania. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Christopher J. Sebastian, originally from Monaca. Rose Marie and Chris wed on June 19th, 1954, at St. Philomena Catholic Church.  The couple met dancing at McDanel Hall and danced every chance they could, all the way until just a few weeks before Chris’ passing. She was also preceded in death by 10 siblings, four brothers: Louis (Gladys), Albert (Euna), Johnny (Eleanor), and Dominic (Lorraine) Casciato; as well as six sisters: Angelina Casciato, Ann (George) Berger, Margaret (Emil) Kittner, Carmella (Ted) Zdunek, Esther Riggio, and Gloria (Steve) Vinciguerra; along with her Sebastian in-laws: Caroline and Ralph Sebastian, Arthur Sebastian, Lawrence (Francis), George (Rose), Joseph (Elda), Mark, Elvie (John) Romano, Mary (Steve) Lokey, and Rosie (Mike) Petterson. She is survived by a son and two daughters, Renee (Gary) Sebastian Mills of Dallas, Texas, Art (Ana) Sebastian of Diamond Bar, California, and Nancy Sebastian of East Palestine, Ohio, eight treasured grandchildren: Mackenzie (Thomas) Gross and her great-granddaughter, Bernadette, of Omaha, Nebraska, as well as: Matthew (fiancé Natalie) Mills of Denver, Colorado, Anthony Sebastian Veon of Dallas, Texas, Christina (Tim) Simon of Morristown, New Jersey, Dr. Francesca (Forrest) Johnson of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Christopher (Genesis) Sebastian, Joseph Sebastian, and Lauren Sebastian, all of Diamond Bar, California, a brother-in-law, Marshall Riggio of Hawthorne, California, as well as four generations of dear nieces and nephews.

Rose Marie was a 1950 graduate of Beaver Falls Senior High School, where she was a cheerleader, enjoyed choir, and was elected to the May Prom Court. She was a lifelong member of the former St. Philomena Roman Catholic Parish, now St. Augustine Roman Catholic Parish, and was a member of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers and the Child Study Club. She held employment at Babcock & Wilcox general sales office, also at ACME Photo, Taylor’s Department Store, Megan’s, and the Jeanne Craft Dress Shop, all in Beaver Falls.  She was also employed in the cafeteria at Blackhawk High School. She was a devoted and unselfish daughter, sister, wife, mother, and Nunny. She was a fabulous seamstress and cook, and loved playing bingo.

A Visitation will be on Friday, March 13th from 3-6 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 Saturday, March 14th at 11:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Noon at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.  Fr. Kim Schreck will serve as celebrant. A rosary for Rose Marie will be prayed in the Church prior to the Mass of Christian Burial by Confraternity of Christian Mothers at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Dr., Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

William (Bill) Richard White (1934-2026)

William (Bill) Richard White, 91, passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2026. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio on September 12th, 1934, a son of the late David and Mary White.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Robert White, Jean Bartholomew, and Kay Usher, his grandchildren, Gwendolyn and Margaret Knupp and his son-in-law, Robert Knupp. He is survived by his devoted wife, Helen Childs Kyle White, his son, Adam (Leigh Ann) White, his stepchildren, Jason (Laura) Kyle and Anita Kyle Knupp, his cherished grandchildren: Liam, Aiden, and Brynleigh White, Zachary Kyle, Albany Kyle, Madison (CJ) Pugh and Stephen Knupp; as well as his treasured great-grandchildren, Lane and Adler.

William proudly served his country in the United States Army and later with the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Following his years of military service, he pursued higher education and earned a Master’s Degree in Merchandising from New York University. He went on to build a successful career in the oil and gas industry, working as a Landman. A constant and guiding force in his life was his deep love for the Lord. He faithfully shared his faith with others through active service in his church community. He also served compassionately as a chaplain at local nursing homes and hospitals, bringing comfort and encouragement to many. He had a deep interest in current events and rarely missed an opportunity to watch Fox News, staying informed and sharing his perspectives with those around him. He also greatly enjoyed the traditions and excitement of the Kentucky Derby each year and looked forward to watching college football, cheering enthusiastically and enjoying the camaraderie the games brought. Above all else, he loved his family deeply. He found immense joy in watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow, and he treasured every moment spent with them. His legacy of faith, service, strong convictions, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Friends will be received on Friday, March 6th from 5-7 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 on Saturday, March 7th at 12 noon with friends will be received one hour prior to service at 11 A.M. Pastor John Dobritch will officiate.

Private interment will take place at East Carmel Cemetery, East Carmel, OH 44455.

Anita Elaine (Daniels) Johnson (1948-2026)

Anita Elaine (Daniels) Johnson, 78, of Ohioville, passed away on February 12th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on January 25th, 1948, a daughter of the late George Jr. and Eleanore Daniels. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth A. Johnson, and a son-in-law, Keith E. Martin. She is survived by her son, Dale A. Johnson, her daughter, Sherry L. (Johnson) Martin, her granddaughter, Kiersten Elaine (Johnson) Narad, her great-granddaughter, Trinity Nevaeh Skye Narad, her brother, George A. “Fred” Daniels, her sister, Kathi (Daniels) Yuran and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Anita was a faithful member of St. Monica Parish and St. Blaise Church in Midland. She was a loving wife, mother, and teacher. She graduated from Western Beaver High School and attended Point Park College (now University) before marrying the love of her life, Ken Johnson. She taught at the former Presentation Catholic school before having children. She remained involved with the Church teaching CCD, developing and hosting Family Days, and acting as a Confirmation sponsor when asked. More than anything else, she loved to spend time with her family, travel to visit family and friends, or host family and friends at her home. She also loved animals, always having a dog or cat (or two) as a pet.

Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com. A Mass at St. Blaise Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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

David A. DeVenney (1942-2026)

David A. DeVenney, 82, of Chippewa Township, passed away on March 2nd, 2026, at his home. He was born in Beaver Falls on June 2, 1942, the son of the late Arthur and Lillian (Walker) DeVenney. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Sandra DeVenney, a daughter-in-law, Molly, a sister, Lois (Robert) Thayer and an infant granddaughter, Zoe. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Billie Jean “BJ” (Lynch) DeVenney, a son, Brant DeVenney and a granddaughter, Linnea of Phoenixville, PA, as well as his nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

David was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, having served during the Vietnam War Era.  Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked as an industrial electrician for Babcock & Wilcox Company and later retired from VEKA Inc. He was a true car enthusiast and owned nearly 50 automobiles during his lifetime. He enjoyed car cruises with his wife, BJ, and was a member of the Air Heritage Museum in Beaver Falls.

Friends will be received on Friday, March 6th from 3-7 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 blessing service will be held on Friday, March 6th at 6 P.M. with Fr. Kim Schreck presiding.

Interment will be private at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

Rosemary Fitzpatrick (1943-2026)

Rosemary Fitzpatrick, 82, of Beaver, passed away on February 25th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Health System – Beaver Campus. She was born in Beaver Falls on April 26th, 1943, the daughter of the late Raymond and Mary Ann (Balzer) Engle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Kerien “Fitz” Fitzpatrick, her brothers, Carl Engle, George Engle, and Raymond Engle and a sister-in-law, Pamela Engle. She is survived by her brother, William “Bill” (Carol) Engle, a stepson, Kerien (Kimberly) Fitzpatrick, her sisters-in-law, Anna Engle and Donna Engle, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Rosemary retired as an executive secretary from ARCO Chemical after many years of faithful service. She was a member of Saints Peter & Paul Church in Beaver, part of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. In her free time, she enjoyed cross stitching and working in her yard and garden.

Friends will be received on Saturday, March 7th from 11 AM until the time of prayers at 12:30 P.M. in the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Saturday, March 7th at 1 P.M. at Saints Peter & Paul Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver. Fr. Howard Campbell will serve as the celebrant of the service.

Interment will be private at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Saints Peter & Paul Church, Our Lady of the Valley Parish, 200 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009.