Category: Obituaries

Betty Lee (Morris) Dusenberry (1934-2026)

Betty Lee (Morris) Dusenberry, 91, of Brighton Township, passed away peacefully on April 23rd, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. She was born in Dilliner, Pennsylvania on September 22nd, 1934, a daughter of the late Orville S. and Myrtle M. (McMannes) Morris. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Joseph J. Dusenberry and eleven siblings: Donald, Harold, Walter, Clarence, Carl, Stella Morris, Mazella King, Ruth Dawson, Martha Headlee, Esther Christy, and Shirley Kefover. She is survived by her daughters, Sarah Dusenberry, M.D. and Deborah Lapinski, her grandchildren, Heather Chisholm, Leanne Santavicca, and Joseph Santavicca, her great-grandchildren, Lily, Molly, and William, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Betty Lee spent her life as a homemaker, where she cared for and nurtured her family.  She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was also a member of the Chippewa United Methodist Church and the Fraternal Order of the Eastern Star. In her free time, she enjoyed spending precious moments with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed cooking, baking, canning, gardening, and visiting with people in nursing homes to offer them encouragement for whatever they were facing. Her voice was a gift to many and could often be heard singing hymns and country music.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 29th from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. and on Thursday, April 30th from 10 a.m. until the time of a service at 11 a.m. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements. The service will take place in the funeral home chapel and Pastor Allan Brooks will officiate.

Interment will follow in Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer’s Association at donorservices.alz.org, Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001, or a no-kill animal shelter of one’s choice.

Helen “Tica” Hineman (1936-2026)

Helen “Tica” Hineman, 89, of Midland, passed away on April 23rd, 2026. She was born in Midland on April 30th, 1936, a daughter of the late Mitchell and Mary Rakas Disdore. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Hineman III, her brother-in-law, James DiTullio and her uncle, Joseph Gesdar. She is survived by her sons, Robert (Lydia) Hineman of Industry and John M. (Kathy) Hineman of Center Township, her nephew, David (Kate) DiTullio and a special niece who was more of a daughter to Helen, Janet DiTullio, her sister, Evelyn DiTullio of Midland, her granddaughters, Alena (Brian) Rohm of Independence and Mya (Jeddy)Young of Center Township and her great-grandson, Luca Young.

Helen was a resident of Midland and Industry all of her life and was an active member of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Midland for 50 years, where she sang in the choir and participated with the American Serbian Club Serbian Sisters. She was known as a voracious reader and would read nearly a book a day.

In accordance with Helen’s wishes, a funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, April 28th, at 11 a.m. at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church,  30 10th Street, Midland. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Helen’s name may be made to the Carnegie Free Library, 61 9th Street, Midland, PA 15059.

The family would like to thank Gateway Hospice and Beaver Valley Healthcare and Rehab for the excellent care given to Helen.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Helen “Tica” Hineman, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

Ruth Naomi Redfern Geist (1930-2026)

Ruth Naomi Redfern Geist, 95, of Beaver, passed away on April 18th, 2026. She was bron in Beaver on June 30th, 1930, a daughter of the late William and Rosabelle Redfern. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, E. Eugene Geist, her son-in-law, Ben Britt III, her granddaughter, Karla Britt and her siblings:Katherine Henry, Rose Brittain, Annabelle Brown, Jane Harding, William Redfern, John Paul Redfern, and James Kendrick Redfern. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Britt, her grandchildren, Jonathan (Julia) Britt, Naomi (Trenell) Galman, and Michael Britt, her great-grandchildren: Josiah, Jeremiah, Michaela, Abby, Charley, and Henry; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ruth was a longtime and faithful member of Park Presbyterian Church in Beaver. She was a 1948 graduate of Beaver Area High School and went on to attend and graduate from Providence Hospital School of Nursing in 1951. She worked and retired from the Surgical Department of Beaver Valley Medical Center after 41 years of employment. She also was a member of the Naomi Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, where she served as past Matron, as well as being the former Mother Advisor of Rainbow for Girls.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com. 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 Ruth Naomi Geist, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Leonard “Len” P. Sadowy (1956-2026)

Leonard “Len” P. Sadowy, 70, of Baden, passed away on April 23rd, 2026. He was born on April 5th, 1956, a son of the late Peter and Mary Sadowy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Rebecca Sadowy, Lorraine Sadowy, and Robert Sadowy, as well as his son, Leonard P. Sadowy Jr. He is survived by his brother, William (Christine) Sadowy, his nieces, Kayla Sadowy, Ashley Selby, and Nicole White, his nephew, Joshua Sadowy, his great-niece, Colette, his beloved canine companion, Bailey and numerous cousins and friends.

Leonard graduated from Ambridge High School and began his career at J&L Steel. He later worked as a school bus driver for the former Rhodes Transit (now ABC Transit). He was also a devoted member of Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ambridge. He also enjoyed tabletop shuffleboard, playing the lottery, and was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, April 26th, from 1-3 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements and where a funeral service officiated by Father Michael Polosky of Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, will be held on Monday, April 27th, at 10 A.M. Interment will follow at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery, 404 6th Street, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge, PA 15003.

Wonolia Pennington (1953-2026)

Wonolia Pennington, 73, of Midland, passed away unexpectedly on April 21st, 2026, at her home. She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on March 12th, 1953, a daughter of the late Roy and Hazel Pennington. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, Richard and Jim Pennington and a sister, Nora Winn. She is survived by her husband of 13 years, W. Todd Holland, her son, Chad Rocca of Anchorage, Alaska, her step-daughters, Tara (Jeffrey) Shriver Burgettstown and Nicole Holland, Weirton, West Virginia, her grandchildren: Brenna Rocca, Chippewa, Josiah Rocca, Alaska and Todd and Gemma Shriver; as well as her sisters, Darlene Candle and Junivee Le Port, both of Industry and great-grandson, Lane Majeski, with whom she loved spending time.

Wonolia had been a resident of Midland most of her life. She formerly worked as a secretary for a judge in Anchorage, Alaska for 20 years before returning home. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening, painting and building puzzles.

Friends will be received on Monday, April 27th, from 3 p.m. until the time of service at 6 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of her arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

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

Shirley M. Henley (1936-2026)

Shirley M. Henley, 90, of Providence Health and Rehabilitation Center, formerly of New Sewickley Township, passed away on April 21st, 2026. She was born in Freedom on January 11th, 1936, a daughter of the late John G. and Hazel Ruckert McClure. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Allen D. Henley, as well as two sisters, Alice Barnes and Grace Crosby, three brothers, Larry, William, and Gerald McClure. She is survived by her six daughters and four sons-in-law: Sheryll L. Mihelic, Sandra and Michael Wilson, Sarah A. and Mark Mawhinney, all of New Sewickley Township, Stacy E. and Don Mayle of Front Royal Virginia, Gretchen L. and Michael Freed of Wampum, and Lola and Dan Lewis, two sons and daughters-in-law, James A. and Vicki Henley, of New Brighton, and Jeffery T. and Tamara Henley, of Warren, Ohio, twenty-seven grandchildren, seventy-six great-grandchildren, and fifteen great-great-grandchildren, one sister, Carol Reid of Florida, one brother and sister-in-law, Arthur and Dianna McClure of Babson Park, Florida and numerous nieces and nephews.

Shirley was a retired showroom clerk with Yesco Electric. She was also a member of New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church in Freedom (Economy Borough) where she took part in the Women’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Auxiliary, the fellowship committee, and former church council. She was also a volunteer with the Meals on Wheels program of Rochester and a member of the Strike Out Bowling League for twenty-seven years.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, April 26th, from 2-4 p.m., with a service following at 4:30 p.m. at New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 2nd Avenue, Freedom. Reverend Martin Galbraith will officiaite the service. Private interment will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery, 1101 9th Street Extension, Freedom.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 2nd Ave, Freedom, PA 15042.

Charlene Francis Short Reeder (1946-2026)

Charlene Francis Short Reeder, 79, of Chippewa Township, passed away on April 20th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver Campus. She was born on September 5, 1946, the daughter of the late Charles and Virginia (Logan) Short. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Craft Reeder and her brother, Lance Short. She is survived by her children, Daniel (Kylee Hostetter) Reeder and Matthew Reeder, her stepchildren, Thomas “TC” Reeder, Roderick “Rod” Reeder, and Amy (Mark) Shaffer, her beloved grandchildren: Peyton, Daniel Jr., Bennett, Elida, Charlie, Kellan, Jake, Max, Lilly, and Kyle; as well as her great-granddaughter, Penelope, her brother, Brad Short and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Charlene dedicated many of her working years working with the mentally disabled at Verland, a role she took great pride in. Her compassion extended far beyond her profession, as she was deeply committed to helping individuals with mental disabilities. She was a faithful member of the Chippewa United Methodist Church. Above all, she cherished her family. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. She was a constant, loving presence in all her family’s lives. She will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the love she gave so freely to others.

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Memorial contributions may also be made to Charlene’s family to continue the loving support she provided to her children, cash or check donations will be accepted at that funeral home or can be made directly to the family.

Friends will be received for a memorial visitation on Wednesday, April 29th from 5 P.M. until the time of memorial service at 7 P.M. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Edward J. Kozel (1955-2026)

Edward J. Kozel, 70, passed away peacefully on April 22nd, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on November 29th, 1955, a son of the late John and Katherine Kozel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John “Jack” Kozel. He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Cheryl Kozel, and their two daughters, Lauren (Dan) Baker and Stephanie Kozel. He is survived by his grandchildren, Lucas and Cora Baker, whom he adored, his mother and father-in-law, Julian and Margaret Bobrowski, his two brothers-in-law, John (Lisa) Bobrowski and Michael (Candace) Bobrowski, his very good friend, Mike Pauvlinch, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Edward was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures, spending time at his family camp in Tionesta, hunting and fishing, and rooting for his favorite Pittsburgh sports teams. He was a proud Penn State alumnus who continued to follow their athletic successes with enthusiasm. Above all, his greatest joys came from being with his family and watching his grandchildren, Lucas and Cora grow and flourish. He treasured family vacations, especially the trip to the Grand Canyon and even enjoyed adventures in Las Vegas. He was known to relax with a cigar and had a deep love for music, attending concerts featuring Santana and embracing everything Rock n Roll. His family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Gateway Hospice, especially Dr. Gandhe and Dr. Gehrlein, for their exceptional care and compassion given to Edward. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his kindness, humor, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be forever remembered as a loving husband, father, uncle, cousin and dear friend.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America at www.hdsa.org by clicking here.
A visitation will take place on Friday, April 24th from 11 a.m. until the time of a blessing service at 1 p.m. in the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. Entombment will immediately follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Edward J. Kozel please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Blaise F. Churney (Passed on April 17th, 2026)

Blaise F. Churney, 87, passed away unexpectedly on April 17th, 2026, at his residence in Monaca. He was born in Aliquippa, a son of the late Maurice and Ann (Radocaj) Churney, who were of Croatian descent. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Gloria Churney, his daughter, Patricia Butchki, his son, Mark Churney, his sister and brother-in-law, Bridget (Bruce) Eiselt and his brother-in-law, Fred Rossi. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Natasha Churney, his son-in-law, John Butchki, two granddaughters, Jessica Butchki-Revier and Carina Churney, his brother, William Churney, Sr., his sister, Maureen (Rodney) Bratich and several nieces and nephews including: Cecelia Baker, Sandra Churney, Collette Churney, Kira Persuitte, Maura Colonias, Raymond Eiselt, Eric Eiselt, and William Churney, Jr. He was also blessed with the friendship of Billy Rains, his best friend, whose companionship meant much to him through the years.

Blaise graduated from Hopewell High School and answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. After completing his service, he returned home and built a long career as a steelworker at the Aliquippa works of LTV Steel Corporation. He retired from that work after many years of dedication and was a member of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 1211. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid gardener who took pride in caring for his plants and watching them grow. He also enjoyed golfing and listening to AM talk news radio, interests that gave him comfort and companionship over the years. He especially appreciated spending time at the Beaver Valley senior citizens Center at the Mall, where he enjoyed the company of others and the familiar rhythm of community life.

Private calling hours for Blaise will be observed on Thursday, April 30th from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. His burial will privately take place at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired to the Disabled American Veterans, 1000 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1606, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Regis A. Mullen, Jr. (1953-2026)

Regis A. Mullen Jr., 72, of Moon Township, passed away on April 11th, 2026 in his home. He was born in Rochester on October 23rd, 1953, a son of the late Regis A. & Helen (Fabian) Mullen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Guiendon and a brother, Paul Mullen. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Beth (Jordan) Mullen, two sons, Regis A. Mullen III of Ohio and Jesse J. Mullen (Misty) of Scott Township and two grandchildren, Jordan & Madison Mullen.

Regis was a 1971 graduate of Quigley Catholic High School in Baden. He attended Robert Morris University where he was a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity, and the basketball team. He received a Bachelor’s degree from California University, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Gannon University, a Master’s Degree in Education from The University of Pittsburgh, and a Principalship from Youngstown State University. He was a guidance counselor, athletic director and head basketball coach for many years at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School in Coraopolis. He was a principal at Beaver High School, Ambridge Area School District, Avonworth Elementary School, and The Allegheny Intermediate Unit. He was an avid fisherman and boater and enjoyed exploring the many beautiful lakes in the tri-state area, with Stonewall Lake, West Virginia being his favorite. His most cherished accomplishment was becoming a Dad and a PaPa. He was extremely proud of his sons and adored his grandson, JJ, and his granddaughter, Maddie.

He was known for his elaborate storytelling and sense of humor. He cared deeply about everyone he met, could make friends anywhere, and had significant impacts in everyone’s life that he encountered.

Services for Regis were private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis.