William Clarence Leeson (1942-2024)

William Clarence Leeson passed away in his home on September 27th, 2024.
He was born on January 5th, 1942 in Bellburn, West Virginia, the son of Florence and Pearl Leeson. He was a sibling to Raymond, Donald, John, Bill, Bonnie, Louise, Aida, Barb, and Tykee. He is survived by his loving wife Melody Leeson, children: Jodi Leeson, Amy (Chris) Howell, Audra Leeson, Donna Jezowicz, Joshua (Shannon) Myers, and Desiree Smith; grandchildren: Victoria Onuska, Paige (Steven) Neeley, Tyler Howell, Cody Howell, Kayla Gonzalez, Brayden Miladin, Nina Lambert, Jillian Jezowicz, Jacquilyn Jezowicz, Hayleigh Myers, Joshua Myers Jr, Noah Myers, Scarlet Myers, Scott Smith Jr, Bryce Smith, and Isabella Teets; great grandchildren: Parker, Kobe, Jacquelyn, Steven III, Aliyah, Scott III; and he was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his 7th great grandchild due in May.
Bill served in the U.S. Army and retired from the Beaver Area School District after 34 years of service as Maintenance Supervisor, where he was loved and respected by not only his coworkers, but also the students. He always had a kind word and a smile for everyone.
He was a man’s man but always remained gentle, he took nothing but gave everything, continuously brought new life to this world. He had a great love of gardening, nature, and animals. He loved to share the fruits of his labor with everyone. You always left his house with bags full of vegetables, things he canned, eggs, and his homemade zucchini bread.
Despite being something of a recluse by nature, he welcomed everyone into his home with loving arms. A place of love and acceptance where you instantly became part of the family. He loved his family.
He is also survived by many other dear friends and family members.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, October 5th, in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, from 12 p.m. until the time of full military honors at 3 p.m., by the Beaver County Special Unit, followed by a time for remembrances, where friends and family are welcome to attend to share their love and stories.
In honor of Bill’s love of growing things, the family requests potted plants, in lieu of flowers.

Thomas “Tom” D. Sherbine (1952-2024)

Thomas “Tom” D. Sherbine, 72, of Aliquippa passed away on September 28, 2024 surrounded by his loving family and friends.
He was born on September 16, 1952, in Rochester, the son of the late Dave Sherbine and Doris Dawson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Nick Laurito and two brothers-in-law, Nick Laurito and Kenneth Johnston. He is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Betty (Laurito) Sherbine, a brother, Jim Sherbine, an uncle Dan John, his mother-in-law, Sophie Laurito, two sisters-in-law: Rose Johnston and Kim (Robert) Ackly, a brother-in-law, Tom (Terri) Laurito and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Thomas was retired from Bank of America. He savored his time camping in Pymatuning. Over the years, he met many wonderful people who became dear friends. Tom also enjoyed riding around in his golf cart. He and his wife Betty enjoyed traveling and taking cruises to different parts of the United States and other countries. His biggest passion was right in his hometown, the Aliquippa Quips Football team. He didn’t miss a game and was one of their biggest fans.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 30, from 4-8 p.m. in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. A service will also be held on Tuesday, October 1st at 11 a.m. in the funeral home.

Judith (Venturella) Wisniewski (1946-2024)

Judith (Venturella) Wisniewski, passed away on September 26, 2024. She was born on April 4, 1946, the daughter of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Funaiock) Venturella.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother James J. Venturella, Sr. She is survived by her brother Joseph (Marion) Venturella, two sister-in-laws, Regina Venturella and Antionette Nowell, her husband Edward Wisniewski, her children: Annette (Greg) Gaudino, Eddie, Wendy, and Ryan Wisniewski; grandchildren, Mark, Lauren, Leah, and Gabrielle, and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Judith was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She graduated in 1964 from St. Mary’s High School in Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania. In her twenties, she moved with her friends to Miami, Florida. She later returned to Pittsburgh and raised her family here.

She worked for Bell Telephone and AT&T for 19 years. She later retired from Schroeder Industries. Judith loved traveling, especially on family vacations. Panama City Beach, Florida was a favorite destination for the family. She loved caring for animals, especially the family dogs. Judith will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the family dog Louie.

Services will be private on Wednesday, October 2 at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the American Cancer Society (donate.cancer.org). 

John Paul “JP” West (1962-2024)

John Paul “JP” West, 62, of Chippewa Township, passed away on September 29, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family and friends.
He was born on February 25, 1962, in Manhattan, New York, the son of the late Peter and Victoria (Wendt) West. He is survived by his devoted wife, Beth Ann (Lasher) West, his six children: Brendan West, Peter West, Tori (Conner Redinger) West, Becki (Bill) Quinn, Abby (Jake Smetak) Lasher, and Jimmy (Kate Barnhart) Lasher, two grandchildren, Aria and Billy, two brothers, Christian West and Ben West, and his mother-in-law, Alice Patricko.
John Paul was raised in Scarsdale, New York, in the home his grandfather built in the early 1900s. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1980 and attended Mercy College.
As a youth, John Paul spent much of his time at the Scarsdale Golf Club, where he became the club’s first third-generation member. He earned numerous championships and accolades for his skill. An exceptionally talented athlete, JP bowled thirty perfect 300 games, was a scratch golfer, won multiple club championships, and held a national ranking in paddle tennis. Beyond his personal achievements, he found joy in teaching and mentoring others in various sports.
In his professional life, John Paul excelled in the telecommunications industry, becoming a four-time President’s Club winner while serving in several key roles. Most recently, he worked as Senior Leader of Government Affairs for GloFiber in Columbus, Ohio.
John Paul was deeply committed to serving others. He sat on the board of The Adoption Connection, where he contributed to uniting families and children. Additionally, he was an active member of Chippewa Alliance Church, where he participated in the men’s devotional small group, organized a well-loved annual golf outing for the past three years, and regularly attended weekly services.
Friends will be received on Thursday, October 3rd from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., and Friday, October 4th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls. John Paul will lie in state on Saturday, October 5th from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at Chippewa Alliance Church, 3629 37th St. Extenstion, Beaver Falls. Pastor Dan Muir will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in John Paul’s memory to the Chippewa Alliance Church Building Fund.

Richard Truman Taylor (1945-2024)

Richard Truman Taylor, 79, passed away on September 26, 2024 at Providence Health and Rehabilitation Center in Beaver Falls after valiantly battling Alzheimer’s disease.

He was born on September 4, 1945, in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, the son of the late George Taylor and Gertrude (Miller) Taylor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, George William Taylor, mother-in-law, Ann (Pavkovich) Thomas, father-in-law, Robert Sheldrake Thomas, sister-in-law, Carol (Thomas) Podnar and brother-in-law, Robert C. Podnar. He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Susan (Thomas) Taylor, daughter, Chelsea (Taylor) Navage, son-in-law, John J.Navage, precious granddaughter, Mia Navage, brother, Thomas Taylor, sister-in-law, Mary Vic (Plazek) Taylor, and nieces and nephews: Robert (Laura) Podnar, Thomas (Shirley) Podnar, Johanna (Billy) Higgins, Maria (Shane) Belin, Caroline Taylor and Steven Taylor.

Rich graduated from Duquesne High School, Slippery Rock University with a B.S. in Elementary and Secondary Education, and M.S. in Administration from Duquesne University. He taught for Big Beaver Falls Area School District at 37th Street School on College Hill and then 5th grade Science at the Middle School. He loved teaching and the students not only learned from him, but he learned from them as well. He was known as RTT, “Rough Tough Taylor,” to his students.

Rich’s father was a hand engraver, an art almost lost to technology. Studying and diligent practice resulted in him becoming a beautiful Old English hand writer. For several years Rich hand-wrote in Old English the names of the students receiving certificates of achievement awards. His students participated in The Daughters of the American Revolution annual essay contest and the pen pal program he established continued for several years. Rich contacted Joe DeNardo from WTAE-TV and the Beaver Falls Middle School was Joe’s first visit in Beaver County. After 34 years, he retired and went on to work in Lawn and Garden at Walmart for 15 years, treating customers like he would want to be treated.

Rich was a member of Big Beaver Falls Education Association, PSEA, and NEA. He was also an active member of the College Hill United Methodist Church (CHUM). Rich was a lifelong fan of the Beaver Falls tigers, Steelers, Pirates and Pens. He was also a member of the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity, Slippery Rock chapter, where he continued to have so many great times with his brothers.

His daughter, Chelsea though, was his joy. He took her to dance class for seven years, summer book readings at the Beaver Falls Library, Legion softball games where he was an assistant coach, gymnastics class, and cheering practices and games. He loved all of it.

Friends will be received on Monday, September 30, from 4-8 p.m. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

A private service will be held on Friday, October 4, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery, New Brighton.

The family would like to thank the afternoon/evening nursing aides and RN’s on the 3rd floor (memory impaired unit) at Providence Health and Rehab Center. The family would also like to thank Dr. Carl Sestito for his genuine care and immediate feedback. They also appreciated Grane Hospice Nursing services.

The family has asked that any memorial contributions be made in Richard’s name to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Karen Pearl Molter (1948-2024)

Karen Pearl Molter, 76, of Freedom, passed away on September 24, 2024 at her residence. She was born on May 24, 1948 in Butler, a daughter of the late Earl W. Rogers and Betty L. Hohman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, John Molter; her brother, Roy Rogers; and her sister, Kathleen “Crystal” Mason. She is survived by two daughters, Rikki Molter and Annette Funk, brothers, Wesley Rogers and Ronnie Rogers, and her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Karen was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend known for her warm spirit and nurturing nature. She cherished spending time with her family, often reminiscing about joyful moments shared during family gatherings. Her love extended to her nine grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, two of whom she was currently raising, Meriya Dent and Alaysia Molter.

In accordance with Karen’s wishes, there will be no services. A private cremation along with a celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Nancy Jane Irwin (1944-2024)

Nancy Jane Irwin, 79, of Beaver, passed away on September 27, 2024 at Heritage Valley Beaver. 

She was born on October 8, 1944, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Norman and Frances (Johnson) Bier. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Lee Bier, Dennis Bier, and Trudy Pucci. She is survived by her husband, Jim Irwin, children, Michael Irwin, Michelle (Michael) Schmid, and Mark (Caroline) Irwin, grandchildren, Katie (Paul) Miles and their son Caleb, and Allie Schmid; a great-grandson, Caleb Miles, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

In keeping with Nancy’s wishes, she will be cremated and no services are being planned. 

Inurnment will take place in Beaver Cemetery. 

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, is honored to be assisting Nancy’s family. 

Thomas Hiram Quimby, Jr. (1987-2024)

Thomas Hiram Quimby Jr., 37, passed away on September 24, 2024. He was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on January 22, 1987, the son of Diane (Ed) Seech and the late Thomas Hiram Quimby Sr. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandmother, Flora J. Maratta, an aunt, Connie Chamberlain, and an uncle, Eric (Ricky) Brocklebank. 

He is survived by his mother and step father, Diane & Ed Seech, two daughters: Emma & Mia Quimby and their mother, Kali Powell; grandfathers: Allan Maratta and Eric (Sandra) Brocklebank; uncles: Patrick (Tammy) Brocklebank, Allan (Betty) Maratta, Robert Quimby and Leonard Quimby; aunts: Leslie Spooner, Patty Doran, Marie Allison, Melanie (Donald) Venanzio, Jennie (AJ) Kokoskie, Linda (Ted) Gouza, and Debbie Maratta; and numerous cousins. 

When Thomas was younger, he loved to collect Pokémon cards. He also enjoyed building things. 

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 9 from 10 a.m. until noon in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa. A luncheon will follow. 

William McCartney (1940-2024)

William McCartney, 83 of Ambridge, passed away on September 26, 2024 in Beaver Health Care and Rehabilitation Center. 

He was born on November 19, 1940, in Ambridge, the son of the late William and Mary Cathrine Rudolph McCartney. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Sarah Lynne (Trapold) McCartney and daughter, Diane K. McCartney. 

He is survived by his daughter, Pamela McCartney, his son, William McCartney, Jr., his grandson, Patrick Smith, three granddaughters, Kayla Camp, Chelsea McCartney, Abigail Jo McCartney; and three great grandsons, Tate, Phoenix and Logan George. 

William was a member of 82nd Airborne, 101st Airborne, and worked for the U.S. Post Office. 

Family and friends will be received on Monday, September 30 and Tuesday, October 1st, from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, where a funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 2nd at 10 A.M., with Deacon Tony Giordano Officiating. Interment will take place in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum. 

Anthony A. Sabella (1941-2024)

Anthony A. Sabella, 83, of New Brighton, passed away on September 26, 2024 at home. 

He was born on July 13, 1941, in New Brighton, the son of the late Pietro O. and Theresa M. (Solita) Sabella. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Peter D. Sabella, Sr., and an infant grandson, Derek. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret “Peggy” (Dick) Sabella, two daughters, Gina (Randy) Priselac, Carla Sabella, a granddaughter, Gianna, a brother, Joseph E. Sabella (Nancy Nash), several nieces, nephews and their families. 

Anthony was a retired inspector from B&W steel.  He was a former President of the S.O.I and worked in Real Estate in Beaver County with Pete Wilson Realty.  Anthony dedicated his life to the things he loved most: his family, his garden, animals, and golfing. A devoted family man, Anthony created countless memories during family holidays, where his laughter and warmth brought everyone together. He relished these moments, sharing stories and creating traditions that will forever be treasured by his loved ones. 

Friends will be received on Tuesday, October 1, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.  Prayers will be held Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Church of New Brighton with Brother John Harvey officiating. 

Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery of New Brighton.