Leah Ruth Eggers
Waynesburg resident worked in N.C. cotton mill
Leah Ruth Eggers, 81, of Waynesburg, formerly of Dilliner, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg. She was born August 26, 1917, in Johnson, Tenn., a daughter of Carl and Sally Grogan Eggers. Miss Eggers was a member of Mount Pleasant Methodist Church in Dilliner. She was formerly employed in a cotton mill in Newton, N.C. Surviving are several nieces and nephews. Deceased are four brothers, Grover, Clark, Albert and Richard Eggers; and two sisters, Nelle Robinson and Blanch Mortez.

Mary W. Horn
Laboratory Presbyterian Church member since 1918
Mary W. Horn, 93, of Washington (Pancake), died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Presbyterian Medical Center, Washington. She was born December 5, 1904, in Amwell Township, a daughter of Albert H. and Lillie G. Courson Horn. Miss Horn attended Laboratory Elementary School and was a graduate of Washington High School and Washington Business College. She had been employed for more than 39 years by Bell Telephone in the business office before retiring in 1963. Miss Horn had been a member since 1918 of Laboratory Presbyterian Church and a member of Bell Telephone Pioneers, Ten Year Club, Washington Area Senior Citizens, AARP and the REDD Run Club. Miss Horn was the last of her immediate family. Surviving are a nephew, James R. Noble of McKeesport; and two nieces, Helen Moore of Fredericktown and Ruth Hill of Beallsville; six great-nieces and nephews; and nine great-great-nieces and nephews. Deceased are two sisters, Lola J. Horn and Christine Noble; and a great-nephew.

Anthony Jankowski
Employed by Canon-McMillan School District
Anthony Jankowski, 65, of Washington, formerly of Canonsburg, died Thursday, October 1, 1998, in Washington Hospital. He was born June 27, 1933, in Hamtramck, Mich., a son of Mary Mosek Jankowski of Meadow Lands and the late Stanley Jankowski. Mr. Jankowski worked as a janitor for Canon-McMillan School District and was a steelworker at Universal Cyclops. He was a member of St. Patrick Church in Canonsburg. Surviving are his wife, Shirley Sampson Jankowski of Canonsburg; four sons, Anthony T. of Fredricksburg, Va., Joseph M. and Andrew P., both of Washington, and James W. Jankowski of Canonsburg; six grandchildren; two brothers, John Jankowski of Florida and Stanley Jankowski of California; and four sisters, Shirley Bonanno of Washington, Marion Ballas of Meadow Lands, Dolores Buck of Donora and Eleanor Miller of Coraopolis. Deceased, in addition to his father, is a brother, Robert, who died in 1998.

Art Jones
Former Carmichaels Borough Council member
Art Jones, 51, of Carmichaels, died at 11:40 a.m. Friday, October 2, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg. He was born June 24, 1947, in Waynesburg, a son of Anna Martin Jones of Greensboro R.D.1 and the late Arthur Benjamin Jones. Mr. Jones was a 1965 graduate of Mapletown High School and had resided in Carmichaels since 1970. He was a schoolteacher in Carmichaels Area School District from 1969 to 1972 and also coached football during that time. In 1972, he began working for J&L Steel Corp. at various mines, including Shannopin Mine at Bobtown, where he was assistant superintendent. He later worked as safety director for LTV coal mines, as general superintendent of LTV Nemacolin Mine until 1990 and was last employed by Eighty-Four Mining Co. as a supervisor. Mr. Jones was a member of St. Hugh Roman Catholic Church of Carmichaels, Sons of Cumberland American Legion Post 400 of Carmichaels, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge of Waynesburg and Carmichaels Sportsmen's Club. He was a longtime member of the National Rifleman's Association, served as secretary of Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 819 of Carmichaels and was bulletin editor for Carmichaels Lions Club. He was a former member of Carmichaels Borough Council and the Carmichaels and Cumberland Township Volunteer Fire Company. On June 5, 1971, he married Paula Osborne, who survives. Also surviving are a son, James E. Jones at home; a daughter, Melissa M. Jones at home; a sister, Angela "Candy" Pluto of Hopwood; and several nieces and nephews.

Robert Merashoff
Retired miner was WWII Army veteran
Robert Merashoff, 77, of Ellsworth, died Thursday, October 1, 1998, in Washington Hospital. He was born December 28, 1920, in Ellsworth, a son of Samuel and Mary Frye Merashoff. Mr. Merashoff was Orthodox and was a World War II Army veteran. He was retired from BethEnergy Mine 51 and was a member of the Eagles in Canonsburg and Veterans of Foreign Wars in Bentleyville. Surviving are his son, Robert M. Merashoff Sr. of Scenery Hill; a daughter, Linda Vitek of Bentleyville; a sister, Marjorie Conicello of Milford; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Deceased are his wife, Stella Kowaliszyn Merashoff; four sisters, Edith Lancey, Helen Greco, Ann Martello and Frances Zuccaro; and three brothers, Mike, John and William Merashoff.

Audrey Faye Owens
Member of Church of God of Prophecy
Audrey Faye Owens, 67, of Coweta, Okla., formerly of Finleyville, died Tuesday, September 29, 1998, in Broken Arrow Medical Center. She was born July 23, 1931, in Allegheny County, a daughter of Albert John and Blanche E. Baird Waggett. Mrs. Owens was a homemaker and a day care provider. She was a member of Church of God of Prophecy and was president of Carriage Crossing. On February 7, 1958, in Library, she married Thomas Owens, who died March 12, 1996. Surviving are her son, Tom Owens of Coweta, Okla.; five brothers, Wilbur Waggett of Fort Worth, Texas, Aaron Waggett of Cleveland, Tenn., Jim Waggett of Cleveland, Ohio, Joe Waggett of Huntsville, Ala. and Verne Waggett of Portland, Ore.; and three grandchildren, Shaun, Cody and Casey Owens. Deceased are five brothers.

John Roger Posten
Former resident of Washington County
John Roger Posten, 60, of Bremerton, Wash., formerly of Washington County, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Harrison Hospital. He was born March 11, 1938, in Washington County, a son of the late Eleanor Virginia Posten Lutes Tagsherer. Mr. Posten was employed by Boeing Aircraft in Seattle, Wash. He was a graduate of East Washington High School and attended Kent State University in Ohio and University of Washington in Seattle. Mr. Posten served in the Naval Reserve in Seattle and was a member of Knights of Pythias. Surviving are two sisters, Joycelyn Pellegrini of Houston and Linda Mae Miller of Seattle, Wash.; a brother, James David Lutes of Bullard, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.

Emma Jessie Kozon
Member of St. Anthonys Church in Monongahela
Emma Jessie Kozon, 87, formerly of Warne Street, Monongahela, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, at Presbyterian Medical Center, Washington. She was born May 28, 1911, in Finleyville, Nottingham Township, a daughter of Mike and Jessie Regula Skokut. Mrs. Kozon was formerly employed by Washington County in the registration department at the county courthouse and for many years worked field registration. She and her late husband owned and operated a roadside vegetable stand on Country Club Road for more than 20 years. Mrs. Kozon was a member of St. Anthonys Church in Monongahela. Surviving are a son, John William Kozon of Monongahela; a daughter, Dolly Vugrinovich of Monongahela; five grandchildren, John Alan, Shauna Marie and Kelly Jo Kozon, Michael A. Vugrinovich Jr. and Michelle Vivio; two sisters, Helen Malyuk of Akron, Ohio, and Peggy Porretto of Charleroi; a brother, George Skokut of Beloit, Wis.; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are her husband, John Kozon, who died March 21, 1975; two sisters, Esther Romig and Alice Bodinsky; and a brother, William "Barney" Skokut.

Catherine T. La Rocka
Member of St. Ann Roman Catholic Church in Bulger
Catherine T. La Rocka, 82, of Bulger, died unexpectedly Thursday, October 29, 1998, in Weirton (W.Va.) Medical Center. She was born February 25, 1916, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Michael and Mary Matazinski La Rocka. Miss La Rocka was a member of St. Ann Roman Catholic Church in Bulger, the Ladies Guild of St. Ann and a member of McDonald Veteran of Foreign War Ladies Auxiliary. Surviving are five sisters, Mary Zysko of Florida, Elizabeth Dumaret of McDonald, Lillian Wasik of Burgettstown, Sylvia Schnarr of state of Indiana and Jo Anne Windsheimer of Bridgeville; two brothers, Stanley La Rocka of Oakdale and Michael J. La Rocka of Bulger; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is a brother, Samuel La Rocka.

Joseph W. Mendola
Owner, operator of Joseph and Olga's Beauty Shop
Joseph W. Mendola, 86, of Chess Street, Monongahela, who died Tuesday, October 27, 1998, in Mrs. G.'s Personal Care Home, Monongahela. He was born January 11, 1912, in Monongahela, a son of Artenzio and Minnie Mendola. Mr. Mendola, along with his late wife, were owners of Joseph and Olga's Beauty Shop in Monongahela for 60 years, retiring in 1997. He was a graduate of Monongahela High School and Maison-Felix Beauty School in Pittsburgh. Mr. Mendola was a member of St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church in Monongahela. Surviving are a son, Joseph W. Mendola Jr. of Charleroi; five brothers, Patsy Mendola of Virginia, Victor Mendola of New Jersey, Edward Mendola of Charleroi and Albert and James Mendola, both of Monongahela; two sisters, Mary Garofalo and Helen Voytish, both of the state of California; two grandchildren, Joseph M. and Jeffrey S. Mendola; and two great-grandchildren. Deceased are his wife, Olga Mendola, who died in June 1997; and a sister, Minnie Solecky. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church, 225 Park Avenue, Monongahela, PA 15063. Marshall Marra Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Private services were held.

Joseph G. Miscovey
Republican chairman for Cecil Township
Joseph G. Miscovey, 94, of Cecil, died Wednesday, October 28, 1998. He was born July 25, 1904, in Cecil, a son of John and Susan Krizik Miscovey. Until his retirement in 1970, Mr. Miscovey was employed as an inspector for the state Department of Labor. He served as Republican chairman for Cecil Township until illness forced his retirement. Mr. Miscovey was a member of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Cecil, Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent De Paul Society, Hilltoppers of Cecil, Senior Citizens of Canonsburg, Cecil Fire Department Company 3, Eagles, Moose and Elks of Canonsburg. He served as the first president of the Father and Daughter Club of Mount Mercy College. Surviving are his wife, Mary Trebec; three daughters, Jo Ann Williams of Cecil, Mary Lou Kavallierakis of Largo, Fla., and Susan Berton of Cecil; a son, Ted Miscovey of Bridgeville; a sister, Ann Sopko of Los Angeles, Calif.; 15 grandchildren, Patricia Mann, Diana Abreu, Lori Kresse, Edward, John, Mark, Eric, Tim and David Williams, Mike and Nick Kavallierakis, Doug Miscovey and Dennis, Thomas and James Berton; and five great-grandchildren. Deceased is a son, Thomas Miscovey; a sister, Mary Kuhn; and two brothers, John and Steven Miscovey.

Robert E. Piper
Member of Clarksville Christian Church
Robert E. "Curly" Piper, 81, of Clarksville (Williamstown), died Thursday, October 29, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg. He was born July 25, 1917, in Royal, a son of Joseph and Nellie Cummings Piper. Mr. Piper was a coal miner at Gateway Coal Co., retiring Jan. 5, 1979. He lived in the Williamstown area of Clarksville since 1966. Mr. Piper was a member of Clarksville Christian Church, United Mine Workers of America, F&AM Lodge 237 of Beallsville, Uniontown Lodge of Perfection and the Pittsburgh Consistory. On January 24, 1939, he married Evelyn Emerson, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Phyllis Nyswaner of Clarksville; two grandsons, Brad and Ryan Nyswaner; a great-grandson; and a sister, June Dobbins of Tobaccoville, N.C. Deceased are two brothers, Raymond and Elmer Piper.

Armand N. Ricottilli
Former owner of fencing company
Armand Nicholas Ricottilli Sr., 78, of Kingsville, W.Va., died Tuesday, October 27, 1998. He had been in his usual health, and his death was attributed to cardiac arrest. Mr. Ricottilli was born June 17, 1920, in Struthers, Ohio, a son of Panfilo and Giovanna Centofanti Ricottilli. On April 19, 1945, in Buckhannon, W.Va., he was married to the former Kathryn Ratliff, who survives. He was the former owner and operator of A.N. Ricottilli Rustic Fencing Co. Mr. Ricotilli was the pioneer of the Ricottilli family in the rustic fence business, establishing his business in 1946 and retiring in 1972. He was an avid hunter, a member of the West Virginia Farm Bureau and in 1972 was named West Virginia Tree Farmer of the Year. He was also a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church at Coalton, W.Va. Also surviving are two sons, Donald Ricottilli of Belington, W.Va., and Nicholas Ricottilli of Elkins, W.Va.; four brothers, Patsy Ricottilli of Belington, Fiori Ricottilli of Summersville, W.Va., Dominick Ricottilli of Belington and Carlo Ricottilli of Montrose, W.Va.; four sisters, Lucy Palmisano of Elkins, Amelia Derico of Buckhannon, Adeline Regester of Moorefield, W.Va., and Virginia Rydzak of Washington; and three grandsons, Anthony Ricottilli, Jeffery Ricottilli and Wayne Ricottilli. Deceased are four brothers, Laboria, Albert, Joseph and Tony Ricottilli; and a sister, Fiorina Ricottilli.

Lawrence A. Stech Jr.
Veteran of U.S. Army - during World War II
Lawrence A. Stech Jr., 79, of Fallowfield Township, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, in Mon Valley Hospital, Carroll Township. He was born January 25, 1919, in Charleroi, a son of Lawrence A. and Mary Emma McFeely Stech Sr. Mr. Stech was a member of First Christian Church of Charleroi. He served in the U. S. Army during World War II. Mr. Stech was a retired automobile mechanic at the former H & B Chevrolet in Charleroi. Surviving are a daughter, Maureen Stechly of Fallowfield Township; a sister, Mary Katherine Evans of Belle Vernon; five grandchildren, John Albert and Melisa Stech, Lynn P. and Stacy Hustava and Lee Allen Stech. Deceased are his wife, Anna Marie Ramage Stech; a son, Lawrence A. Stech III; and a brother, Donald Scott.

Valerie Lynn Thomas
McGuffey High School graduate
Valerie Lynn Thomas, 32, of Prosperity, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, at Presbyterian Medical Center, after a 10-year illness. She was born in Washington February 25, 1966, a daughter of Harold A. and Mildred Polen Thomas of Prosperity. Miss Thomas was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. She was a 1985 graduate of McGuffey High School. She had attended United Cerebral Palsey. Miss Thomas had been an avid horseman and was formerly active in 4-H Golden Hoofs. Surviving, in addition to her parents, are three sisters, Vanessa Batey of Prosperity, Melanie Finney of Ten Mile and Melissa Szygenda of East Finley; and several nieces and nephews.
Correction
Incorrect information appeared in the obituary of Valerie Lynn Thomas, published Friday. The last name of a sister, Vanessa Beatty, was mispelled.

Kenneth L. Thomas
Retired ironworker and business agent of union
Kenneth L. Thomas, 72, of Richmond, Ohio, died at 5:48 a.m. Wednesday, October 28, 1998, in Trinity West Medical Center, Steubenville, Ohio. Mr. Thomas was born January 8, 1926, in Marietta, Ohio, a son of Homer and Hilda Ward Thomas. He lived with his aunt and uncle, Lowell and Thelma Ferguson, for 11 years. He was a retired ironworker and business agent of Local 549; a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served in the African, Atlantic and Pacific Theaters during World War II; a member of Richmond American Legion Honored Seven Post 740; and was Protestant. Surviving are his wife, Dorothy Householder Thomas, whom he married June 19, 1947; three sons, Brady, Bruce and Brett Thomas, all of Richmond; two daughters, Kim Fluharty of Toronto, Ohio, and Judy Clark of Columbus, Ohio; a sister, Juanita Stuchul of Canton, Ohio; 11 grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Burial is Saturday, October 31, in Sugar Grove Cemetery, Ohio.

Agnes Vesely
Veteran nurse of World War II
Agnes Price Vesely, 86, of Monongahela, formerly of Carol Avenue, Fallowfield Township, died Thursday, October 29, 1998. She was born May 3, 1912, in DuBois, a daughter of John and Christina Frederick Price. Mrs. Vesely was a graduate of St. Francis School of Nursing in Pittsburgh. Following graduation, she was employed as a registered nurse in the operating room at St. Francis Hospital, Pittsburgh. Mrs. Vesely was a veteran of the U.S. Navy during World War II, where she was a nurse and held the rank of lieutenant. She was a member of Transfiguration Church, St. Francis Nurse's Alumni Association and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Charleroi. Surviving are a son, Stephen M. Vesely, with whom she made her home; three daughters, Dr. May Vesely Tsourmas of Austin, Texas, Linda Gibson of St. Michaels, Md., and Cheryl Freeman of Alexandria, Va.; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Dorothy Holben of Chicora and Mary Louise Morrow of Silver Springs, Md. Deceased are her husband, Dr. John A. Vesely, who died March 1, 1997; a sister, Dolores Price; and four brothers, John, Glenn, Don and Francis Price.

Robert A. Williams
U.S. Army veteran of Korean Conflict
Robert A. Williams, 60, of Cecil, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, in St. Clair Hospital. He was born July 13, 1938, in Presto, a son of Louis and Clara Ciesielski Williams. Prior to retirement, Mr. Williams was a self-employed brick mason. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and was a member of Cecil American Legion Post 793. He enjoyed gardening and card playing. On June 25, 1960, he married Marcella Ivanski, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Kimberly Steiner of Cecil; a son, Scott Robert Williams of Cecil; three sisters, Marcella Eger of Palm Dale, Calif., Clara DeMand of Simi Valley, Calif., and Louise Williams of Palm Dale; two brothers, Albert Williams of Alabama and Louis Williams of Palm Dale; four grandchildren, Sarah and Jeffrey Williams and Donnie and Dillon Steiner. Deceased is a son, Jeff Williams.

Joseph Francis Samida
Was recognized in Canton's Football Hall of Fame
Joseph Francis Samida, 87, of Washington, formerly of Meadow Lands, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, at Washington Hospital. He was born in Meadow Lands November 1, 1910, a son of John and Josefa Mervar Samida . He was employed at Washington Steel Corp. as a stretch operator, retiring in 1975. He was a member of the Old Timers Baseball League. He had played football for the Polish A C's and was recognized in the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Mr. Samida was an avid bowler and golfer and formerly was involved with Washington Steel's Industrial Bowling League. He attended a one-room schoolhouse in Meadow Lands. On February 22, 1939, he married Annabelle Bainbridge, who survives. Also surviving are a son, John J. Samida of Washington; one daughter, Arleen Malarkey of Naples, Fla.; two grandchildren, Cheryl Klejka and Donna Samida; and three great-grandchildren. Deceased are four sisters, Mary Samida, Sophia Huggins, Matilda Kijowski and Frances Schriskey.

Dorothy L. Allison
Washington Hospital nursing supervisor
Dorothy Leona Diehl Greer Allison, 95, of Washington, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Presbyterian Medical Center, Washington. She was born October 14, 1902, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, a daughter of Louis and Mary Sterling Diehl. Mrs. Allison was a member of First Lutheran Church of Washington, where she was a member of the Harmony Class and Circle. She attended schools in Martins Ferry, graduated from Washington Business College and graduated in 1929 from Washington Hospital School of Nursing. She also was a graduate of the Dale Carnegie Leadership Training course. Mrs. Allison was a private nurse and was a supervisor of nursing at Washington Hospital and of the industrial nurses at Jessop Steel for 17 years. She was a 50-year member and past worthy matron of Martha V. Paul Chapter 404, Order of the Eastern Star. In 1933, she married Joseph J. Greer, who died in 1955. In 1958, she married William McKinley Allison, who died in 1978. Surviving are three nieces, Anna Diehl Trettel of Washington, Regina Schweizer Lazear of Medina, Ohio, and Rosella Schweizer Majerczak of Terra Alta, W.Va.; a nephew, Lawrence L. Diehl of Willingboro, N.J.; and several cousins. She was the youngest of 11 children. Her 10 brothers and sisters are deceased.

Gilbert Deter
Native of Mather
Gilbert "Cotton" Deter, 69, of Liberal, Kan., died Wednesday, September 30, 1998, in Southwest Medical Center. He was born September 10, 1929, in Mather, a son of Robert and Mamie Shipley Deter. Mr. Deter moved to the Liberal area in 1975 and worked for National Beef in the hide department. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars in Liberal. Surviving are three brothers, Albert and Charles, both of Jefferson, and Henry Deter of DeBary, Fla.; and a sister, Virginia Kiefer of Canonsburg. Deceased are three brothers, Edward, Levi and Robert Deter. Mr. Deter was cremated and buried in Pennsylvania. Kitch Funeral Home of Liberal, Kan., was in charge of arrangements.

Leah Ruth Eggers
Waynesburg resident worked in N.C. cotton mill
Leah Ruth Eggers, 81, of Waynesburg, formerly of Dilliner, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg. She was born August 26, 1917, in Johnson, Tenn., a daughter of Carl and Sally Grogan Eggers. Miss Eggers was a member of Mount Pleasant Methodist Church in Dilliner. She was formerly employed in a cotton mill in Newton, N.C. Surviving are several nieces and nephews. Deceased are four brothers, Grover, Clark, Albert and Richard Eggers; and two sisters, Nelle Robinson and Blanch Mortez.

Anthony Jankowski
Employed by Canon-McMillan School District
Anthony Jankowski, 65, of Washington, formerly of Canonsburg, died Thursday, October 1, 1998, in Washington Hospital. He was born June 27, 1933, in Hamtramck, Mich., a son of Mary Mosek Jankowski of Meadow Lands and the late Stanley Jankowski. Mr. Jankowski worked as a janitor for Canon-McMillan School District and was a steelworker at Universal Cyclops. He was a member of St. Patrick Church in Canonsburg. Surviving are his wife, Shirley Sampson Jankowski of Canonsburg; four sons, Anthony T. of Fredricksburg, Va., Joseph M. and Andrew P., both of Washington, and James W. Jankowski of Canonsburg; six grandchildren; two brothers, John Jankowski of Florida and Stanley Jankowski of California; and four sisters, Shirley Bonanno of Washington, Marion Ballas of Meadow Lands, Dolores Buck of Donora and Eleanor Miller of Coraopolis. Deceased, in addition to his father, is a brother, Robert, who died in 1998.

Henry N. Christopher
WWII veteran was retired machine operator
Henry N. Christopher, 81, of Cleveland, Ohio, formerly of Rices Landing, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in Fairview Hospital, Cleveland. He was born November 20, 1916, in Rices Landing, a son of William G. and Sadie Sharpnack Christopher. He retired as a machine operator for American Brake Shoe/Sintermet Corp. in Cleveland. Mr. Christopher served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of United Paperworkers International Union. Mr. Christopher was Presbyterian. On February 29, 1968, he married Maxine Guesman, who survives. Also surviving are three sisters, Mabel Nicholson of Seven Hills, Ohio, Naomi Metzler of Armada, Mich., and Loma Dowlin of Rices Landing; and three brothers, Aldon "Perry" Christopher of Rices Landing, Charles Christopher of Waynesburg and Ivan Christopher of Finleyville. Deceased are a brother, Lenard Christopher; a sister, Retha Simmons; and an infant twin brother and sister.

Martha B. Coles
American Legion auxiliary member was active bowler
Martha B. Coles, 66, of Jefferson, died Saturday, October 3, 1998, in Washington Hospital. She was born October 12, 1931, in Carmichaels, a daughter of George and Ethel Guesman King. Mrs. Coles was a 1951 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School and had lived all of her life in Greene County. She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 954, Jefferson, and an avid bowler with the Thursday morning Hot Shots at Sahady Lanes in Jefferson. On October 18, 1952, she married Charles (Chuck) Coles Sr., who died January 25, 1996. Surviving are two daughters, Patty Johnston and Brenda Tennant, both of Jefferson; two sons, Charles E. Coles Jr. of Jefferson and Robert H. Coles of Mather; seven grandchildren, Courtney and Jessica Johnston, Brittany and Kaitlyn Coles, John and Julia Tennant and Nicole Crile; and two sisters, Elizabeth Boyle and Mary English, both of Carmichaels. Deceased are two brothers, Albert and Harry King; and a sister, Mabel English.

Emma V. Dittman
Longtime cook in Washington schools
Emma V. Dittman, 86, of Washington, died Saturday, October 3, 1998, in her home following a lengthy illness. She was born December 15, 1911, in Washington, a daughter of Julius and Mary Blue Burgard. Mrs. Dittman was a member of First Christian Church of Washington, where she was a member of the married couples class and several women's groups. She was a 1930 graduate of Washington High School and a graduate of Washington Business College. Prior to the birth of her children, she worked as a bookkeeper for Thompson's Hardware. Later, she worked as a cook for Washington School District for 23 years, retiring in 1986. On May 12, 1933, in Washington, she married John G. Dittman, who died June 22, 1974. Surviving are two daughters, Nancy Decker of Placentia, Calif., and Susan Goehring of Hampton, N.H.; a brother, Walter Burgard of Washington; five grandchildren, Jeff Decker, Amy Goehring, Margot Scott, Tommy Goehring and Kim Decker; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are three brothers, Floyd, William and Paul Burgard.

Emma C. Donley
Edinboro homemaker was native of Venice
Emma C. Donley, 94, of Edinboro, died Sunday, October 4, 1998, in Edinboro Manor. She was born September 1, 1904, in Venice, a daughter of Thomas and Alice Phillips Smith. Mrs. Donley was a homemaker and devoted her life to her family. On January 5, 1924, she married Roland Donley, who died in 1967. Surviving are two daughters, Helen L. Carlson of McKean and Gloria A. Campbell of Dade City, Fla.; a sister, Pearl Johnson of Washington; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild. Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a son, Harold R. "Rollie" Donley; three brothers, Thomas, Clyde and Nelson Smith; and two sisters, Alice Matthews and Mildred Smith.
CORRECTION
Incomplete information was provided for the obituary of Emma C. Donley, published Monday. Omitted was a deceased sister, Gladys Johnson.

Sherman L. Elder
Retired from Molyb Corp.
Sherman L. Elder, 78, of East Hallam Avenue, Washington, died Saturday, October 3, 1998, in Washington Hospital following a lengthy illness. He was born February 20, 1920, in Missouri, a son of Walter H. and Katherine Laster Elder. He was employed as a coal miner for Pittsburgh Coal Co. for more than 20 years. He later retired from Molyb Corp., now Unocal Corp., after 20 years of employment. Mr. Elder was a 1939 graduate of Hickory High School and an avid hunter and fisherman. On August 29, 1947, he married Dorothy M. Asbury, who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Faustina Lee of Blacksburg, Va., and Marla Elder of Pittsburgh; two brothers, Harvey and James Elder, both of Westland; a sister, Edith Jenison of Westland; two grandchildren, Jennifer and Megan Lee; and several nieces and nephews. A sister, Edna Sims, is deceased.

Harriet Boyd Johnson
Homemaker from Vermont
Harriet Boyd Johnson, 83, of Barton, Vt., formerly of Bergenfield, N.J., died Thursday, October 1, 1998, in Barton. She was born November 21, 1914, in Norwalk, Conn., a daughter of Robert and May Courtney Boyd. Mrs. Johnson was a graduate of Ramsey (N.J.) High School, an art student and a homemaker. Her late husband, George Sigfried Johnson, was originally a resident of Washington. Surviving are two daughters, Signe May Langschultz of Cobbs Creek, Va., and Judith Gibbs of Newport Center, Vt.; and two grandsons, Gregory and Jon Gibbs. Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a sister, Lucille Samuels; and a grandson, Frederick G. Langschultz. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 10, in the chapel at Washington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Maple Lane Nursing Home, Barton Hill Road, Barton, VT 05822, would be appreciated by the family.

George G. Lesso
U.S. Navy veteran was retired from McGraw-Edison
George G. Lesso, 77, of 106 Lawn Street, Canonsburg, died Saturday, October 3, 1998, in Greenery Rehabilitation Center, Canonsburg. He was born April 20, 1921, in Strabane, a son of Stephen and Anna Krehulec Lesso. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by McGraw-Edison for 25 years. Mr. Lesso attended Canonsburg United Presbyterian Church. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy, and was a member of the American Legion posts of Houston and Strabane. Mr. Lesso was a charter member of the Ice and Blades Club of Washington and enjoyed teaching others figureskating. He also enjoyed flower gardening. On June 10, 1950, he married Ruth Thompson, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Judith Lesso-Worona of Pittsburgh; two sisters, Anna Backner of Strabane and Margaret Popka of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are three brothers, Steve, Joseph and John Lesso; and two sisters, Mary Negle and Helen Harris.

Virginia M. Murphy
Active member of Harmony Presbyterian Church
Virginia M. Murphy, 82, of Wind Ridge, died at 10:30 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 1998, in Franklin Care Center, Waynesburg. She had been in failing health for the past several months. She was born April 17, 1916, in Aleppo Township, a daughter of Ward Earl and Vada Mae McDougal Morris. Mrs. Murphy had been a resident of the Wind Ridge area since 1934. She was a member of Harmony Presbyterian Church in Wind Ridge, where she had served as a pianist, deacon, elder and clerk of sessions. She also was a member of Richhill Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary and Wind Ridge Needle Club. She enjoyed gardening and sewing as long as her health permitted. Mrs. Murphy was the valedictorian of the 1934 graduating class at Cameron High School. On April 7, 1934, she married Wilbur Myron Murphy, who died June 21, 1986. Surviving are a daughter, JoAnn Yoders of Holbrook R.D.1; a son, Gary Murphy, at home; and two grandsons, Richard L. Yoders and David E. Yoders. Deceased are two brothers, Willis and Charles Morris; and a sister, Opal Roth. Mrs. Murphy was the last of her immediate family.

Charles E. Tanner
WWII veteran served as township supervisor
Charles E. (Charlie) Tanner, 74, of Prosperity R.D.2 (Washington Township), died at 11:52 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 1998, in his home. He was born September 30, 1924, in Mapletown, a son of William J. and Bessie Morrison Tanner. He was a Washington Township resident for more than 44 years and had served as Washington Township supervisor from 1965 to 1989. He was a past president and secretary of the Greene County Association of Township Officers and a Democrat committeeman for Washington Township for more than 30 years. Mr. Tanner was a coal miner at Mather Collieries until 1964, and he enjoyed farming. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of James T. Farrell American Legion Post 330, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4793 and Moose Lodge 461, all of Waynesburg. He also was a member of Mather Christian Church. On December 25, 1943, he married Mary Jane Miller, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Linda Taylor of Waynesburg; a son, Bill Tanner of Oyster Creek, Texas; nine grandchildren, Beth Hinerman, Chad, Justin, Larry and LeRoy Tubbs, Karlissa and Mary Ellen Tanner and twins Tyler and Cody Tanner; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Glenn Tanner of Waynesburg; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are five brothers, Wayne, Ray, Vernon, Burdell and Herschel Tanner; and five sisters, Blanche Waynet, Pearl McCloughen, Margaret Cole, Mildred Grico and Grace Tanner.

Charles H. Wagner
Longtime Mon Valley Hospital employee
Charles H. Wagner, 63, of Eldora (Monongahela), died Saturday, October 3, 1998, in Mon Valley Hospital. He was born February 9, 1935, in Eldora, a son of the late James W. and Cecelia Hazzard Wagner. Mr. Wagner was employed in the laundry department of Mon Valley Hospital for many years. Surviving are his wife, Dolores J. Wagner; two sons, James H. Wagner of Bentleyville and Charles Wagner of Monongahela; a sister, Violet Novak of Monessen; a brother, James W. Wagner of Belle Vernon; three grandchildren, Ethelmarie, Jimmy and Teddy Lee Wagner; and a great-granddaughter. Deceased, in addition to his parents, are a son, Kenny Wayne Wagner; and a sister, Cecelia Cappy.

Betty Bradford Dagg
Retired from Metro Glass
Betty Bradford Dagg, 84, died Friday, October 2, 1998, in McMurray Hills Manor, where she had resided since May 1998. She was born July 8, 1914, in Washington. She resided there most of her life except for a few years that she spent in Canton, Pa. She graduated from Washington High School in 1932. Mrs. Dagg worked for 20 years at Metro Glass, retiring in 1976. She was a member of First Christian Church of Washington. Prior to her move to Canton, she was an active member of the church and Washington Senior Citizens Center. On May 26, 1937, she married Walter G. Bradford, who died January 17, 1948. Surviving are a daughter, Jean Bryner of Winchester, Ind.; a son, Robert G. Bradford of Washington; three grandchildren, Scott G. Bradford, Stacey Lee Gibson and Sheila Jean Gombita, all of Washington; and two great-grandchildren. The family suggests memorials to a charity of the donor's choice. Private services will be held for the family, and burial will be in Washington Cemetery.

Samuel W. Brown
50-year trustee at Payne AME, Canonsburg
Samuel W. Brown, 77, of Payne Place, Canonsburg, died Sunday, October 4, 1998, in Chandler, Arizona, following a brief illness. He was born January 9, 1921, in Canonsburg, a son of Thomas Ellsworth and Sarah Ann Shearrow Brown. Mr. Brown was a graduate of Canonsburg High School and was a former truck driver for Guthrie Trucking and Al Hollash Trucking. He later worked as a coal miner for Crescent Hill Coal Co., retiring in 1983. He was a member of Payne AME Church, Canonsburg, where he was a church trustee for 50 years. Mr. Brown was a Canonsburg auxiliary policeman from 1960 to 1975. He was former president of Canonsburg Senior Citizens, a member of Southwestern Pennsylvania Agency on Aging, a former crossing guard, chairman of Canonsburg Civil Service Commission in 1969, a volunteer with Canonsburg Food Bank and a member of the Interchurch Community Bowling League. In 1980, he served with the Greater Canonsburg Area July 4th Celebration Committee, and was past master of Pythagoras Lodge 148 Free and Accepted Masons. In 1989, he was selected as one of the recipients of the annual Brotherhood Award, sponsored by Payne AME Church and Canonsburg Ministerial Association. Mr. Brown was a sports enthusiast, enjoying football, bowling and golf. On April 4, 1942, he married Evelyn J. Scott, who died October 29, 1995. Surviving are two sons, Lawrence Brown of Rochester, N.Y. and Wallace Brown of Chandler, Ariz.; a daughter, Beverly E. North of Strabane; seven grandchildren, Stefan, Bryon and Anthony Brown, James Jr. and Michael North and Daniel and David Gardner; four great-grandchilden; and a brother, Clarence "Bus" Brown of Washington. Deceased are four brothers, Delmar, Paul Sr., Raymond "Pete" and Eugene Brown; and two sisters, Hazel Baker and Mabel Day.

Edith Burton
Born in Crucible
Edith Nopwasky Burton, 70, of New Brighton, formerly of Crucible, died Friday, September 25, 1998, in the Medical Center, Beaver. Born October 13, 1927, in Crucible, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Grace Randall Nopwasky. Her husband, David L. Burton Sr., is deceased. Surviving are a son, David L. Burton of Rochester, N.Y.; a daughter, Kimberly Yope of Midland; a grandson, Michael Burton; a granddaughter, Lise Burton; two brothers, Kenneth Nopwasky of Joplin, Mo., and Eugene Nopwasky of Meadville; three sisters, Mildred Vukovich of North Windham, Conn., Anna Belle Durkin of Wilimantic, Conn., and Ruth Yelenik of Dilliner; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are four brothers, Edward, Bill, Harry and Robert Nopwasky; two sisters, Valeria Nopwasky and Ethel Utterback. Burial was Saturday, October 3, in Midland.

Charles Bunk Celesky
Retired machinist and WWII veteran
Charles Bunk Celesky, 74, of Oberlin, Ohio, died Sunday, October 4, 1998, in Elyria Memorial Hospital, Elyria, Ohio, following a lengthy illness. He was born December 27, 1923, in Rices Landing, a son of Charles C. and Alvara Gwynn Celesky. Mr. Celesky lived in the Oberlin area since 1990, coming from Brunswick, Ohio. Mr. Celesky was a machinist for North American Manufacturing Co. in Cuyahoga Heights for many years, retiring in 1987. He served in the Army during World War II, and was a member of American Legion 816 in Rices Landing and the Veterans of Foreign Wars 9520 in Brunswick. He also was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Oberlin. Mr. Celesky enjoyed gardening. Surviving are his wife, Eleanor Celesky; a son, Lou Celesky of Cleveland, Ohio; a daughter, Annie Good of Oberlin; a brother, Ray Celesky of Arizona; and three grandchildren. Deceased are a daughter, Barbara Ehrman; two brothers, Cornelious Celesky and Pete Celesky; and a sister, Charlene Celesky. Services are 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 6, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Lawrence R. Churney
Columbia Gas lineman was WW II veteran
Lawrence R. Churney, 82, of Mill Street, Claysville, died Sunday, October 4, 1998, in Humbert Lane Health Care Center, Washington. He was born July 25, 1916, in Waynesburg, a son of Robert and Ella O'Hara Churney. Mr. Churney was a member of St. Ann's Church, Waynesburg. He was a graduate of Waynesburg High School, where he held the shotput record in track for more than 40 years. Mr. Churney was employed as a lineman for Columbia Gas Co. for many years, retiring in the late 1960s. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, receiving the American Theater Ribbon, one service stripe, the Good Conduct Medal and the Victory Medal. On October 26, 1942, he married Mary G. Gilmore, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Loretta Land of New Hampshire; a sister, Mary Eagon of Waynesburg; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is a brother, Albert Churney. At the request of the family there will be no public visitation A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 7, in St. Ann's Church, Waynesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Thomas C. Columbus
Kentucky resident born in Cecil
Thomas C. Columbus, 74, of Ashland, Ky., died Sunday, October 4, 1998, in Kings Daughter's Medical Center, Ashland. He was born August 23, 1924, in Cecil, a son of Alexander and Margaret Powell Columbus. Prior to retirement, he was employed by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources. Mr. Columbus served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a member of Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 10017 and American Legion Post 76. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Ashland and the Knights of Columbus. Mr. Columbus was married twice. His first wife, Leona Sheaffer Columbus, died in 1966. Surviving is his second wife, Virginia Burns Columbus. Also surviving are two daughters, Susan D. Columbus of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Christina M. Columbus of Marysville; five sons, Thomas C. of Harrisburg, Joseph A. of Marysville, James E. of Lexington, Ky., Allen L. of Reading and William F. Columbus of Carlisle; a sister, Dolores Paul of Cecil; 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday afternoon at Holy Family Church in Ashland, Ky.