Nancy Jane (Mooney) Schettig, 84, passed away on May 21st, 2025 surrounded by her loving family, after a lengthy illness. She was a resident of Franklin, Pennsylvania for the past 10 years and a part-time resident of Buffalo, Wyoming from 2001-2020. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Schettig, her parents, Clay Mooney and Dora Hollinbaugh Fritz, her siblings: Shirley Campbell, Patti Rae, Bertha Bable, Byron Mooney, Rita Camp and Donnie “George” Mooney; as well as her sisters-in-law, Judy and Chris Mooney and her granddaughter Infant Fezell.

She was born on November 15th, 1940 and raised primarily by her grandparents in New Brighton, where she spent most of her life. Nancy had an abundance of family and friends who adored her. She made many of these friends through her work and volunteer activities. Beginning in high school after graduating with the New Brighton Class of 1959, she worked at Baden’s Dairy, Jurich’s Furniture, K-Mart and McNutt’s Abbey Flower Shoppe. She then became a tour bus guide before spending 22 years as a land leasing agent for Atlas Resources. Her last job was truly in her sweet spot: a hostess at Eat’n Park in Franklin. We’ve been told that Nancy’s gift of gab was loved by customers being seated but led to some massive congestion in the waiting area. Management politely asked her to “pick up the pace a little bit.” Her many volunteer activities in New Brighton included being a den mother for Cub Scouts and President of both New Brighton Midget Football and Varsity Football Mothers. In Wyoming, Nancy was a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate – son Rick followed in his mother’s footsteps and is currently a CASA in Monterey County, California), and MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) volunteer.

Nancy was known and loved for her “open door” policy.  A seat at her kitchen table, hot coffee, a cigarette (until she quit cold turkey 15 years ago – so proud of her!) and hours of conversation were available to all who showed up, no matter the time of day. Much of Nancy’s life was centered around raising, providing for, and fighting for her boys, all the while instilling in them a lasting sense of caring and kindness.  Her home and yard in New Brighton were always full of her sons’ friends, and most of her “adopted” boys can tell a good story or two about the many escapades at 474 Allendale Road.

Nancy’s stories, antics and unlimited supply of love, wisdom and support sent in the form of cards and newspaper clippings will be remembered forever by her three sons, Rick (Molly) Fezell of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, Tim (Chris) Fezell of Punxsutawney and Doug (Jenn) Fezell of Franklin. Her boys were the epicenter of Nancy’s life, and they will miss her tremendously.

Nancy’s true “sunshine’s” were her seven grandchildren – Andie (Kenny) Bruzzone, Kate Fezell, Charlie Fezell, Jackson Fezell, Ben Fezell, Nick Fezell and Nate Fezell, all who loved her dearly. Even up to her final days, Nancy was attending Nick and Nate’s Franklin High basketball and baseball games.

In addition to her sons, their spouses and grandchildren, Nancy is survived by  a multitude of family members, including her stepmother, Mary Mooney, her brother, Leroy “Fats” Mooney, her sisters, Mary Ann (Tim) O’Shea and Donna (Brad) Custer, in-laws Ed Rae and Randy Bable, and many nieces and nephews including: Jill (Mike) Botinovch, Mark (Mariah) Balderson, Jodi (Jon) Hilliard, Debi (Dave) Anderson, Rhonda Campbell, Mick (Stacey) Campbell, Randy Mooney, Lori Spickerman and Beth Mooney. Jill and Jodi are truly the daughters of Nancy’s heart, and they took care of the many things (and had the many conversations) not so intuitive to her boys. A special thanks goes out to them. Lifetime friends include Susan Cramer and the McCutcheon, Steck and Stefanosky families. Stephanie Rodgers of Franklin became a dear friend along with Nancy’s many neighbors. The family appreciates their constant attention and care.

Nancy also came to love being a parishioner at East Grove Church in Franklin. Her many church friends and Pastor Matt Blake provided her comfort, companionship and blessings beyond compare.

A thank you goes out to the many healthcare professionals at UPMC and AHN who provided Nancy outstanding care in both Franklin and Pittsburgh. A special thanks to Dr. Matthew Lander and his team at Allegheny Hospital. We all came to learn from Nancy that if Dr. Lander said it, it was true.

When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand,

that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.

The angel said my place was ready in heaven far above,

and that I would have to leave behind all those I dearly love.

But when I walked through heaven’s gates, I felt so much at home,

for God looked and smiled at me and said, “Nancy, welcome home.”

Friends and family will be received on Friday, June 27th, from 10 a.m. until the time of a service at 11 a.m. in New Brighton Methodist Church, 1033 6th Ave, New Brighton. Pastors Gary Hilton and John Seth will co-officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Nancy believed that kindness was contagious. In lieu of flowers, Nancy would like you to perform a simple act of kindness in her memory. It could be opening a door for someone, giving a genuine compliment, sending a handwritten card or message (Nancy didn’t text or email – too impersonal), or visiting a lonely neighbor or family member.  The family requests that donations be made in Nancy’s memory to CASA of Monterey County, 945 South Main Street, Unit 107, Salinas, CA 93901.

Darla Ruth Sinovic, 65, of Freedom, passed away on May 17th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Sewickley.

She was born in Sewickley on August 29th, 1959, a daughter of the late Vincent D. and Edna (Horstman) Sinovic. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Paul Kinkead and a sister, Lynette Polce. She is survived by her sister, Pamela Collins, several nieces and nephews and their families.

Darla graduated at the top of her class from the Community College of Beaver County with a degree in nursing. She worked as an licensed practical nurse at Heritage Valley Sewickley for 10 years.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 27th, from 5 p.m. until the time of a blessing service at 7 p.m. in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Sheila Ann (Smith) Leichliter, 71, of Hopewell Township,  passed away unexpectedly on May 20th, 2025 surrounded by her family.

She was born on March 17, 1954, St. Patrick’s Day, and she embraced her Irish heritage with pride and joy. She loved that her birthday fell on a day known for celebration, luck, and family, and she carried that spirit with her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donna Jean Smith Williams and John M. Smith and her beloved baby sister, Janet Smith Winters. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of over 40 years, David “Pudge” Leichliter, her daughter, Shannon Rushman and wife, Colleen of Aliquippa, their son, Christopher Kalfut, son, Shane Rushman and wife, Jill of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, along with their four children: Anthony, Zoey, Dallas, and Atlas; along with her youngest son, Jeffrey Leichliter of Hopewell, three of her siblings, Christine Scherer (Ken), Mark Smith (Lorrie), and Keith Smith (Jean), and many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews: each of whom held a special place in her heart. Her extended family meant the world to her, and she was a constant source of love, laughter, and support to them all.

Sheila was known as the heart of every gathering. She was natural organizer and devoted matriarch. She was the family’s party planner: the one who always made sure everyone felt included, celebrated, and cared for. She loved her family deeply and cherished every moment spent together.

Sheila’s vibrant energy, generous heart, and fierce love for her family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

In accordance with Sheila’s wishes, there will be no viewing. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Barbara Ann Parrish, 73, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away on May 16th, 2025. She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on October 8th, 1951, a daughter of the late Louis and Edith Poff. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Timmothy Poff. She is survived by her two children, Daniel & Kelly Parrish and Rachel Parrish, six grandchildren: Taylor, Brooke, Jessie, Rylee, and Isaac Parrish and Mike Ford; as well as one great grandchild, Willow Banfield.

Barbara loved to play bingo and do crafts. She also enjoyed gardening and especially enjoyed flowers.

A Celebration of Life for Barbara will be at a later date, and arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Marjorie Sue Forrester, 74, lovingly known as “Auntie M,” passed away on May 21st, 2025, following a brave and determined battle with cancer. Her fierce love, deep kindness and quiet strength left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. She was born on May 18th, 1951, a daughter of the late Bruce and Fay Forrester. In addition to her parents, she was preceded by her sister, Peggy Krut and her niece, Kelly Krut. She is survived by her nieces, Christy (Krut) and Jools Bourne and Julie Krut, her great-niece, Taylor Vukich, her great-nephews, Kalob and Kyle Strohecker, her brother-in-law, Ronald Krut and her cousin and lifelong friend, Patty McDanel, whose friendship remained a constant through the years. 

To her family, Auntie M wasn’t just an aunt: she was a second mother, a constant presence, and a source of unconditional support. She believed in being there for every moment that mattered: birthdays, graduations, quiet evenings, and even the daily routines of checking report cards and homework for those she tutored while undergoing treatment. She lived with an unmatched generosity of spirit and a deep commitment to those she loved. 

Marjorie had a deep love for books, Maine’s rugged coastlines dotted with lighthouses, and clam chowder from Gilbert’s: especially when shared with her sister on their highly anticipated get aways. These moments brought her peace and wonder. She was also known for her devotion to her cherished dog, Daisy, her best friend and constant companion. 

She also formed a special bond with Missy, a resident from McGuire Homes with Down syndrome, who became part of the family when they were both young adults. Auntie M welcomed her with open arms and an open heart. Their bond was unbreakable and rooted in mutual joy and compassion. 

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 27th from 10 A.M. until the time of a brief prayer service at 12 Noon in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls. 

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

The family extends special thanks to the compassionate caregivers at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph and Good Samaritan Hospice for their care and kindness in her final days. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Cancer Society, or the New Brighton Library: places and causes close to Marjorie’s heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength. 

Jane Louise (Baker) Watson, 81, of Chippewa Township, passed away on May 19th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Freedom on August 4th, 1943, the daughter of the late John and Wilma (Parks) Baker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Michael LeRoy Watson, her infant son, Darryl Watson, one son, one daughter and  several other relatives.

She is survived by her son, Michael and his wife Stacy Watson, a grandson, Dylan Watson, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.  

Jane was a homemaker until becoming a Retail clerk at CVS for over 15 years. She was an attentive, loving mother and wife that was the glue of the family. She had been a resident of Beaver Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center for the past 6 years. 

Friends will be received on Tuesday May 27th from 4-7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, where a prayer service will be held on Wednesday, May 28th at 11 A.M. 

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

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made in Jane’s name to the American Diabetes Association, https://diabetes.org/local/western-pennsylvania?form=FUNYHSQXNZD or the Beaver County Humane Society, https://beavercountyhumanesociety.org/online-donation/ 

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Beaver Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center for their loving care and support, as well as the ICU doctors and nurses that cared for her at Heritage Valley Beaver. 

Sandra “Sandy” (Marocco) Belich, 57, passed away on May 16th, 2025 with her family at her side. She was born on February 21st, 1968, a daughter of the late Sue Wallace and James Marocco. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Jimmy and Ricky. She is survived by her fiancé, Rich, and her sisters, Lisa DeFrancesco and Danna and Teresa Marocco, her daughter, Deanna Kriger and her grandchildren, Taylor, Carter and Ryder.  From motorcycle runs to fast cars and skydiving, there was nothing that Sandra was afraid of. 

A Celebration of Life for Sandra will be planned for a later date and her services are private. Arrangements and services are entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge. 

James H. “Jim” Shahen, 63, of South Beaver Township, passed away unexpectedly on May 19th, 2025.

He was born in Aliquippa on August 18th, 1961, a son of the late John “Jim” and Maxine (Close) Shahen. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 39 years, Dana (Chiodo) Shahen, his sons, Nicholas Shahen, Andre Shahen and Daniel Shahen, his brother, “Hab” Shahen, his sister, Mary Jean (Monicah) Shahen, his sisters-in-law, Beverly (Gary) Shields, Ellen (Rob) Goehring and Julia (Tom) Kerr, a special cousin, Dawn Marie, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

James Shahen was a man of exceptional strength, wisdom and compassion, who lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to his family and those around him. He was a successful electrician and entrepreneur who built multiple businesses, one being Silver Shine Car Wash, which his close friend (Rich) made his dream of owning a wash come true. His work ethic was unmatched not only running businesses, but around the house. He never stopped creating new projects and staying busy with work even when he was retired. Everything he built in his life was dedicated to his family and he always had others in his mind when doing any task in life.

Beyond his accomplishments in business, it was his faith that he had in God that made him the great father and husband that he was. James was very open to talking about his strong faith and beliefs to others. His faith made him into the loving hard working man that he was. Every thought James ever had was about helping others. Whether it was helping a family member, a stranger, or even an animal, he was always there to help in any situation.

Some of his main enjoyments in life include: hiking, biking, working on cars, shooting at the range with his boys, going with family & friends to wineries and breweries and cutting the grass on his John Deere.

He never stopped staying busy, even in his final moments, in which he had to finish his pickle ball court for his wife. Although he had many unfinished projects in life, he had left a detailed plan for his family to get through any situation and continue to further his legacy.

James dedicated his support to others and mainly his family, and to his children, he was a role model of strength and kindness, and of course love. He taught people everything they needed to know, mainly how to prep and protect the family. Jim prepped for any situation in life. Even with his own passing, he has set a foundation for his family and friends to continue life the way he would have wanted. With all of his hard work, and the power of kindness, his legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the lessons he passed on.

Friends will be received on Thursday, May 22^nd from 1 P.M. until the time of services at 4 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Interment will be private at the Beaver Cemetery.

Junior Lee Fordyce, 84, of Brighton Township, passed away on May 18th, 2025, at Beaver Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation.

He was born on June 20th, 1940 in Wadestown, West Virginia, a son of the late Arthur Lee and Laura Mae (Hendershot) Fordyce. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Anna (Wilson) Fordyce; and his sister, Floriene Dulaney. He is survived by his daughters: Barbara (Paul) Kofalt, Laura Everett, and Theresa (Don) Boots, his grandchildren: Michelle (Omar Khemiri) Kofalt, Sharon (Tyler) Clark, and Nathan (April Willem) Kofalt; as well as his great-grandchildren: Kenyon Brandon, Peyton Brandon, Trenton Brandon, TJ Clark, Carter Clark, Zain Khemiri, Mohamed Khemiri, and Ibrahim Khemiri; along with his step-grandchildren, Jessica Lyn Rich, Taylor Boots and Destiny McCune, his siblings: Gareald, Paul, Clyde, Hartzel, Earl, Anna Pearl, and Carolyn Jo; as well as his beloved brother-in-law and his wife, Dave and Carolyn Wilson and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Junior retired from Phoenix Glass as the Maintenance Supervisor. He was never one to sit idle and then went to work in the saw department at Traco for five years. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, gardening, canning, and woodworking. Junior was well known for sharing his homemade beef jerky and pizzelles. He and his wife spent several wonderful years enjoying a well-earned retirement in Florida. In the most recent years, you could find Junior on his porch chatting with his dear neighbors, Dutch and Bev Triplett. He never knew a stranger and enjoyed making people smile.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 23^rd from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 340 Third Street, Beaver.

A brief prayer service will follow at 8 P.M. in the funeral home on Friday, May 23rd.

In accordance with Junior’s wishes, he will be cremated following the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org

Gregory K. Douglass, 72, of North Sewickley Township, passed away unexpectedly on May 19th, 2025.

He was born in New Brighton on November 23rd, 1952, a son of the late Kenneth and Glenda (Hammond) Douglass. He met the love of his life, Janice (Trozzo) Douglass and they were married in 1980. Together they built a loving family, including his children: Alison (Christopher) Hutchins, Benjamin (Emily) Douglass and Andrew Douglass; as well as his grandchildren: Nicholas (Alyssa) Hutchins, Mason Hutchins, Nolan McKinney, Connor McKinney, Gavin Douglass, Blaire Douglass, Elijah Douglass, and Samuel Douglass, his brother, Robert Douglass, his sister, Mary Ellen Douglass, as well as numerous in-laws and extended family, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Gregory loved his family more than anything, and his grandchildren were the light of his life. He spent countless hours camping, fishing, and hiking with them. He was always laughing and making sure his family and friends were having a good time, often entertaining them with renditions of his favorite songs and dancing along to get a few extra laughs.

He was a member of Concord Church for many years as a faithful servant who was active in church activities like teaching Sunday School, serving on the Board of Trustees and serving in many other capacities across the congregation.

After he graduated from Riverside High School in 1970, Gregory attended Dickinson College in 1974 for his undergrad, then earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University in 1977. He returned to Beaver County to practice law for over 40 years, always advocating for justice and fairness for his clients and using his professional skills to serve the community.

Friends will be received on Thursday, May 22^nd from 6-8 P.M. and on Friday, May 23^rd from 1-3 P.M. & 5-7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 24^th at 12 Noon at Concord Church, A Global Methodist Congregation, 285 Concord Church Road, Beaver Falls. Friends will be received one hour prior to services at 11 A.M. on Friday, May 23rd.

Interment will be private in the Concord Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Concord Church Memorial Fund.