Category: Obituaries

Aaron Ilnicki (1979-2026)

Aaron Ilnicki, 47, of Baden, passed away peacefully on January 19th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 16th, 1979, a cherished son of Darlene and Steve Ilnicki Sr. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Alex and Anna Marie Ligashesky, his paternal grandparents, Victor and Ann Ilnicki and his aunt and uncle, Vanessa and Rudolph Cehelsky. He is survived by his wife, Hope Ilnicki, his beloved son, Caden Ilnicki, who was the pride and joy of his life, his brothers, Steve (Patti) Ilnicki Jr., Michael (Deb) Ilnicki and Nathan (Megan) Ilnicki, his parents-in-law, Michael and Janet Glumac, his sister-in-law, Holly Glumac, his aunts and uncles: Larry and Rose Marie Akin, Victor and Gerry Ilnicki, and Richard and Mary Ilnicki; as well as his treasured nieces and nephews: Nora, Sage, Sara, Everett, and Violet Ilnicki; along with many cousins and dear friends.

Aaron was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother, whose kind heart and lighthearted sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Known for his striking blue eyes and easy smile, he had a deep love for the outdoors. He possessed a remarkable talent for working with his hands, whether tending to his yard, building projects in the garage, or showcasing his skills as a gifted carpenter. He was exceptionally intelligent, especially with numbers, and in his younger years proudly served as a lifeguard, excelling as a strong and confident swimmer. He also enjoyed sharing his talents at home, from making the perfect grilled cheese to baking pumpkin rolls that put Betty Crocker to shame. Above all, he treasured time spent with his son, creating unforgettable memories through backyard campouts, bonfires, birthday celebrations, and even a handmade mini-golf course. Aaron was always ready to lend a helping hand to a neighbor or friend, taking great pride in caring for his home and finding ways to make his family laugh. His passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him. Though deeply missed, his legacy of generosity continues through the gift of organ donation. His family finds comfort in knowing that throughout life’s challenges, Aaron held a strong faith and love for Jesus. He will be remembered for his love, faith, and the joy he brought to all who were blessed to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 31st at 1 p.m. at New Hope Community Church, 592 Beaver Road, Ambridge. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Keith W. Briscoe (Passed on January 19th, 2026)

Keith W. Briscoe of Chippewa Township, passed away on January 19th, 2026, at UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle. He is survived by his wife, Julie, with whom he built a beautiful life rooted in love and devotion, his daughters, Isabella and Lillianna, who will forever miss him, his son-in-law, Clay and his beloved dogs, Stewart and Stella, who were his constant companions and greatest joy, as well as Daisy, Hershel, and Winston, who held a special place in his heart.
It would be easy to focus on his many professional accomplishments in journalism and management. But the way he changed the lives of those who worked for and with him was what meant the most to him and what continues to be remembered. Deeply rooted in nature, he found peace outdoors and believed every animal was sacred, offering kindness to each one that crossed his path. Even a spider was met with care. He cherished the simple rhythms of life: gardening, running, and working outside, finding meaning in honest work and quiet moments.
He moved through the world without judgment, choosing to see the good in others and meet life with patience and grace. He had a rare gift for making the ordinary beautiful, and his humor never left him, even in his most difficult days. He never missed an opportunity to express how proud he was of his children, encouraging them in all they pursued with complete and undeniable love, while fiercely instilling confidence and empathy.
While his passing came far too soon, he showed remarkable compassion and love until the very end. He chose to spend his time not in anger or asking why, but in comforting each member of his family and sharing words that will be remembered forever. On his last day, he shared the words he had always lived by and never missed a chance to tell his family: “Live your life, and go have fun!”
True to who he was, he never sought the spotlight and preferred a life lived humbly and with intention.
In keeping with his wishes, services will be private and held within the family. His legacy lives on in the beauty he created, the goodness he saw in others, and the enduring love he leaves behind. The family would like to acknowledge the many friends, both near and far, who supported him during this time. He was deeply thankful for the messages and expressions of care he received. The family also extends their sincere gratitude to the nurses and doctors who cared for him with compassion and dignity, knowing this acknowledgment reflects exactly what he would have wanted.
Keith would be touched if donations were made in his honor to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001, a small way to continue his compassion and love for animals.
The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Keith and his family during this most difficult time and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.

Donald G. Buffington (1942-2026)

Donald G. Buffington, 83, of Beaver, passed away at Heritage Valley Beaver, after a short illness, on January 15th, 2026.

He was born in Beaver on April 27th, 1942, a son of the late Rush Buffington and Vernice Buffington-Mallory. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Phyllis B. Thompson, his nephew, James Thompson as well as his aunts, uncles, and grandparents. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Sandra K. Buffington, his son, Glenn A. Buffington, his daughter, Cynthia (Greg) Buffington-Galmish, his brother, Gary D. (Carole) Buffington, his sister-in-law, Thelma Yale and a dear family friend, Marilyn Baumann.

Donald graduated from Beaver Area High School and went on to earn an associate degree in accounting at Point Park College, Pittsburgh. He worked as a banker and became the Vice President of People Home Savings, where he served in his role for 25 years. He had a long, loving marriage to his wife, Sandra K. Buffington, they spent 62 joyful years together. Donald and Sandra raised their children together as long time residents of Beaver. He was a part of several organizations and enjoyed many activities. He enjoyed scouting and served as a Cub Scout Leader and led many Canoe Trails trips. He found happiness in volunteer work and volunteered at the Beaver Train Station, The Train Museum, where his father was a conductor, as well as volunteering at the Beaver County Humane Society. He was also a Master Gardener at Penn State, where he provided his knowledge and skills. He also found joy at craft shows throughout his retirement.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

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

Joseph Lee DePaolis (1945-2026)

Joseph Lee DePaolis, 80, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, died
peacefully on January 17th, 2026.
He was born in Sewickley Valley Hospital on December 20th, 1945, the son of the late Leo and Joanna (Loria) DePaolis of Aliquippa. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Judy Mainos DePaolis and their four children: Jennifer (Jason) Dize, Joseph N. DePaolis, Jeffrey (Kelsey) DePaolis and Joy (John) Thomas; as well as eleven grandchildren, and his sister, Mary (John) DePaolis Lutzo.
Joseph attended DePaul Institute for the Deaf and Connelly Trade School specializing in Carpentry & Cabinet Making. Following graduation, he worked for Lucci Cabinet Company and later began his own cabinet company, Custom Built Cabinets by Joseph DePaolis, serving Beaver County residents and businesses for over 35 years. He was an outstanding athlete at DePaul Institute and also earned the highest honor awarded by the Boy Scouts of America, the Eagle Scout Award. Only 2-6% of all Scouts reach Eagle with a tiny majority being deaf. Joseph earned the Eagle Scout rank in 1962 and contributed to the history of deaf scouting in America. He was the son of a J&L Steelworker and Beaver County nurse and was exceptionally strong, both physically and emotionally. He was a gentle, kind-hearted man with boundless patience. He never met a stranger. Joseph was always willing to lend a hand and would place others before himself. Alongside his cabinet company, Joseph also provided maintenance, handiwork, and snow plowing support to whoever needed it. He also coached his kids’ youth soccer and softball teams. Upon retirement, he cared for his mother and was the best short-term caregiver for many of his grandchildren. He was a lifelong Steelers fan and long-time member of the Beaver County Deaf Bowling League. Joseph will be remembered as a loving family man who worked hard and cared for others. He instilled in his children a hard work ethic, the strength to stand up to adversity, and the importance of family.
Joseph requested that there not be any services. He will be laid to rest at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joseph Lee DePaolis please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofranceseco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Yvonne Ann Ory (1956-2026)

Yvonne Ann Ory, 69, of Freedom, passed away on January 19th, 2026, in Heritage Valley, Beaver.  She was born in Rochester on July 26th, 1956, the daughter of the late Blanche E. Hickman. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Keith Curry and Gary Franks. She is survived by her husband, George J. Ory III, one son, Lucas J. Cashdollar, of Butler, a sister and brother in law, Kathryn and Frank Jewell, of West Virginia, one step daughter, Catherine Wilson and her husband D.J., two step sons, Daniel and Austin Wilson, all of New Brighton, a granddaughter, Kayley Ory and Yvonne’s canine companion, Eli.

Yvonne was a former employee with Pine Run Market in New Sewickley Township and had also worked with the Hamilton Awning in Beaver and the East Rochester Shop ‘N’ Save. She loved sewing and also cooking for the family holiday dinners, craft work, playing bingo and was nature enthusiast. Yvonne’s wishes were to be cremated with a memorial service being held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

Henry Leon Woodfork, Sr. (1936-2026)

Henry Leon Woodfork, Sr., 89, of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly of Beaver, peacefully passed away on the afternoon of January 18th, 2026.

He was born in Reidsville, North Carolina on July 16th, 1936, the son of the late Patrick and Ida (Martin) Woodfork. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Commora Board.

Henry is survived by his four children, Henry Jr. (Jennifer), Shawn (Robert), Alexis Roxanne, and Patrick (Nancy); Grandchildren Samantha (Y’hoshua) Myrick, Rachel, Morgan, and Bryce Woodfork; sisters, Etta Marcellus, Patricia (Thomas) Marshall; brother in laws, James R. Board II, Samuel T. Board; special friends Grant and Fanny Farmer.

After graduating from Booker T. Washington School in Reidsville, North Carolina, Henry enlisted in the Air Force and in February of 1959 met the love of his life Commora Board at a dance while stationed at the Greater Pittsburgh Air Base. He was in Indian Guides. He was an exceptional athlete and played 3rd base for the Metro Club. Following his playing career he coached for many years. Henry’s teams had multiple championships, Little League (3), Pony League (2), Colt league team in the playoff for the first time in Beaver history. All of the championships were in consecutive years. He worked for many years at Keystone Bakery, continued on as a Job Core Trainer at CCBC, as well as at Auto Plus until retiring at the age of 83.

Friends will be received on Saturday, January 24th, from 10 A.M. until 12:30 P.M., where a service will be conducted at 1 P.M. at St. John AME Methodist Church, 715 Mulberry Street, Beaver.

Private Interment will take place in Sylvanias Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

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

Memorial Contributions may be made in Henry’s name to St. John Ame Methodist Church, 715 Mulberry Street, Beaver, PA 15009.

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

Stephanie A. Reid (1978-2026)

Stephanie A. Reid, 47, of Fair Oaks, passed away on January 18th, 2026, at St. Clair Hospital.

She was born in Sewickley on October 11th, 1978, a daughter of the late Archie and Judith (Geiger) Reid. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an aunt, Eleanor Geiger and another aunt and uncle, Marjorie (Richard) Wright. She is survived by her siblings, Lori (Kevin) Mitchell and Bryan (Lindi Neely) Reid, three nieces, Katlyn, Nicole and Sabrina, two nephews, Brendan and Ian-Paul and a great-nephew, Emmanuel, as well as numerous cousins.

Some of Stephanie’s favorite pass-times were playing little league baseball, watching wrestling, and enjoying delicious food. She had an exceptional social life, loved to joke and make everyone around her happy. She will be loved and missed always.

All are welcome to gather for a visitation on Friday, January 23rd, from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Blessing Service will be held on Saturday, January 24th, commencing at 11 A.M. Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stephanie A. Reid, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

John “Buff” H. Buffalini (1937-2026)

John “Buff” H. Buffalini, 88, of Brighton Township, passed away on January 19th, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Leet Township on March 2nd, 1937, the son of the late John Frances and Eva (Valentino) Buffalini. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Chembars, a niece, Marla and an infant son. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 26 years, Sherry (Morgan)Buffalini, his children: John (Barb) Buffalini, Larry (Christine) Buffalini, Janet (Rich) Pavlinch, Dean (Maria) Buffalini, Matthew Buffalini, Anthony (Michelle)Buffalini and Paula (John) Bernert; as well as his step daughters, Jennifer Buchanan, Rhonda (Rick) Douds and Michelle (Chis) Galzarano, his nineteen grandchildren: John, Nicole, Shane, Anthony,Cole, Amelia, and Sophia Buffalini, Will Pavlinch, Matthew Bernert, Mia (Ethan) Barton, Samantha (Carl) Manzo, Zac (Nicole) Buffalini, Luke (Val) Buffalini, Vance (Lexi) Shuler, Allison and Alayna Buchanan, RJ, Abby, and Ricki-Lynn Douds, Hayden and Emma Galzarano; as well as his eight great-grandchildren: Stella, Adrianna, Vito, Salvatore, Xavier, Nova, and Emma; along with his brother in law, Frank Chembars and two nieces.

John was a member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Beaver Falls and St. Augustine Parish. He was also a part of the American Legion as well as the Monaca Sportsman’s Club and was a veteran of the US Army. He retired from the blooming mill at J&L after 35 years of service. He was very devoted to his faith which he passed down to his children and he also loved to go camping , fishing and hunting. He loved spending time out doors and spending time with family. He loved country music.

Friends will be received on Friday, January 23rd from 4-7 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 military honors will be accorded at 5 P.M. on Friday, January 23rd. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, January 24th at 11 A.M. in St. Monica Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

The family would also like to thank John’s care taker, Jill, nurse, Jessica and aide, Irona for taking such good care of our loved one.

Jon A. Dicks (1975-2026)

Jon A. Dicks, 50, of Beaver, passed away unexpectedly on January 14th, 2026.

He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on February 14th, 1975, a son of Monica Aukscunas Dicks and the late James B. Dicks. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Jennifer Rice Dicks, his step-father, David Hapach, his brother, James N. (Melissa) Dicks, his sister, Shaine Dicks (Benjamin) Debevec and his nephew, Wyatt Dicks.

Jon was a boilermaker by trade.

Friends will be received on Friday, January 23rd from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 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.

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

Leonia M. DeRosia (Brenner) (Passed on January 16th, 2026)

Leonia M. DeRosia (Brenner) 80, of Renfrew, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 16th, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas. Leona was a lifelong member of St John’s “Burry’s” Church in Rochester, where she and Thomas raised four daughters, Beth, Shari, Carrie, and Kim in the love of the Lord. Leona was born and raised in Rochester, a daughter of the late H. Merrill and Laureme Brenner, along with her two siblings: Donna (William) Wright, and Kay (David) Allen. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Donna and her brothers-in-law, William Wright, Dennis (Jan) DeRosia and Kenneth (Sue) DeRosia.She is survived by her twelve grandchildren: Robert (Katie), Aleesha (Manny), Sarah, Ryan, Emma, Katherine (Charles), Hannah, Michael, Matthew, Josiah, Nathanael, Abigail and her three great grandchildren Thomas, Madilynn, and Ava Jo.

Thomas and Leonia married on September 30th, 1967, and moved to a town just outside of Detroit where they started their family. However, the draw to Western Pennsylvania brought them back to Freedom, where they built a house on a country road and continued to grow their family. Together, they had four beloved daughters: Elizabeth Henry, Sharon (Christopher) Huggins, Carrie (James) Blawas, and Kimberly (Josef) Funyak.

To know Leonia is to know how much she delighted in life and in her family. She spent her days steadfastly pursuing Goodness, Truth, and Beauty, and pointing others to God, who is the Source of it all. Besides her Lord and her family, her chief delights included reading, playing the piano, gardening, raising horses, and going to horse events with Tom, playing card games, and making her family laugh.

Calling hours will be held at St. John’s “Burry’s” Church, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester (New Sewickley Twp.) on Sunday, January 25th from 3-5 p.m. and on Monday, January 26th from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at the church, with reception to follow immediately after the service. A private burial at St. John’s “Burry’s” Church Cemetery, which is in the same location, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Leonia’s memory may be made to St John’s “Burry’s” Church, 1835 Rt #68, Rochester, PA 15074 or your local church.

“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the Earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him, with my eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” Job 19:25-27

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

To share online condolences, view Leona’s video tribute or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com