Josephine “Despina” Mrkonja, 80, of Ambridge, passed away at Forbes Hospital on March 6th, 2025, following complications from a recent illness. She was born on August 9th, 1944 in Sewickley Hospital, a daughter of the late Michael and Lillie Aspiotes. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved siblings: her twin, James, brothers, Gus, Louis and John, and her sisters: Mary, Effie, Frieda and Rena. She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 57 years, John Mrkonja, daughters, Angel (Shawn) Ross and Christina (Nicholas) Sheleheda, grandsons, Nico Sheleheda and John Ross, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Josephine was a 1962 graduate of Ambridge Area High School. After attending the Beaver Falls Beauty Academy, Josephine had a successful career as a beautician before becoming a full-time homemaker. She was proud of her Greek heritage and loved her family fiercely. She could brew a pot of coffee and assemble a plate of food in record time if she knew you were stopping by her home. She was a classroom volunteer for both of her daughters during their education and an active member of their parent teacher organizations. Her beautiful smile and sharp wit will forever stay with everyone who knew her.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, March 9th from 1-5 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge. Family and friends will gather for a funeral service on Monday, March 10th at 10 A.M. in Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge.  Interment will follow in Economy Cemetery.