SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—-Stephen E. Perkins, 77, of Shinglehouse, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY, after a long illness.
In honoring Stephen’s wishes, there will be no services or further obituary published.
Stephen entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Stephen, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Denise A. Simmons, 64, of 943 Plymouth Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 25, 2025 at her residence with her sister-in-law, Beth Nissel, by her side.
She was born May 14, 1961, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Ronald and Nancy Gleixner Nissel. She was a resident of the area for most of her life but spent many years in Virginia. She was a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, Class of 1980. On February 14, 2007, in Virginia, Denise married, the late Durk Simmons, who preceded her in death on November 11, 2018.
Denise is survived by three sons, Ray Erich (Elizabeth) of St. Marys, Adam Erich (Christina and her son, Kane) of Virginia, and Tyler Erich of St. Marys; a step-daughter, Jessica Gotta (Mike) of Virginia; two grandchildren: Everett and Rosie Erich; two step-grandchildren: Mikayla and Mikinly; four siblings: Lou Ann Largey (Joseph) of Kersey, Jim Nissel of St. Marys, Mark Nissel (Lisa) of St. Marys, and Bob Nissel (Beth) of St. Marys: three nieces: Krystal Fordoski, Tiffany Largey, and Ashley Nissel; a nephew, Kevin Nissel; two step-nieces: Marissa Lenze and Shawna Lenze; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Virgil Paul Harrison – March 1, 1943 ~ December 25, 2025
Virgil passed away very peacefully in the early hours of Christmas Day, on one of two of his favorite holidays, the 4th of July being the other. He had weeks worth of different 4th of July related shirts. He would decorate his scooter and drive it proudly in the Memorial and 4th of July parades in Galeton, PA. He served in the Vietnam Era, just as all his older brothers did. Thru ancestry Virgil was related to Leonard Harrison who founded Harrison valley and the Grand canyon.
He loved to fish, especially fly fishing, and loved to teach anyone who wanted to learn how to do either. His favorite place to fish was Pine Creek. He was a diehard fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Bodine Brothers, plus Denny Hamblin. His collection of Hess Trucks includes the very first one made to the latest. He was like a little kid when he received a new one and had it out on display for everyone to see.
Virgil is survived by his son, Timmie P. (who took him fishing several times over the years and for his last season) and his son, Seth and fiancée, Emily Smith. His sister-in-law, Celesta Harrison and her children, Lafron, Patrick and Julia Ann Rider – who he played an important role in their lives growing up; as well as, Tina Rider – who he treated like his daughter. He showed their families his love of camping – which they loved to do.
Virgil leaves behind 4 generations of nieces and nephews, the morning coffee club at the Galeton Nittany, the Lancenese Family, The Upper Pine Creek Sportsmen Association Club (which he helped start with his buddy Fred), several friends he made in many years from his days at the formally known Kenshire Kampground and his dear friends, Janine and Bobby, who looked after him.
Mary Ann Hannibal, 88, formerly of Teaberry Road, St. Marys, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at St. John Specialty Care in Mars.
She was born on December 30, 1936, in St. Marys, PA, a Daughter of the late Francis and Anna Krug Eberl.
On April 27, 1957, in St. Marys Church, she married the late Ronald Hannibal, who preceded her in death on October 11, 2011. Together, they were blessed with more than 54 years of marriage.
Mary Ann was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central High School. She was a member of the CMF Club. In her free time, Mary Ann enjoyed golfing and bowling. She also loved hosting parties and getting together to play cards with friends.
She is survived by her beloved granddaughter; Rachel Rafaniello, and her husband, Matthew of Valencia, PA, and by her great-granddaughter; Haley Rafaniello.
Donna Chapman, 75, of Dawson St. in Kane, passed away Saturday (Dec. 27) in UPMC-Presbyterian. Born Dec. 16. 1950 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Alden and Mary (Joshnick) Chapman.
Whether you think you know Donna or not, you probably did. She worked at the Texas Hot for over thirty years.
She is survived by one daughter, Brooke (Steve) Raymondo of Kane; one son, Jason Chapman of Salt Lake City, UT; one brother, John (Patty) Chapman of Kane; one sister, Judy Mickle of Edinboro; a half sister, Katheryn Kielman; a granddaughter, Xandra Raymondo; two grandsons, Anthony and Ayden Raymondo and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Daniel (her twin brother), Robert, and Wayne.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
The Cummings Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of services.
Born: Margaret Mary McManus, November 28, 1932, in New York City, NY
Died: December 23, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY
Daughter of: Thomas and Bridget (McGoey) McManus
Sister Margaret McManus entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on February 2, 1950, was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1950, and professed her final vows on August 16, 1957. For over 75 years, she faithfully lived her vows to God through her ministry and life in community.
Margaret graduated from Good Shepherd Elementary School in 1945 and Sacred Heart Academy in 1949, both in NYC, NY. After graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration, she pursued further studies at the University of Minnesota, earning a Master of Science Degree in Hospital Administration.
Violet E. Gerber, formerly of John Street, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Jefferson Court in Brookville. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Born: Mary Catherine Conboy, May 4, 1929, in Drumhubrid, Co. Leitrim, Ireland
Died: December 20, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse in Allegany, NY
Daughter of: Patrick and Margaret (Kelleher) Conboy, Co. Leitrim, Ireland
Sister Mary Catherine Conboy entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on August 25, 1952, was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1953, and professed her final religious vows on August 16, 1960. Committed to the Franciscan Charism for 72 years, Sister Mary shared her life, gifts and talents within the community and beyond to all whom she served.
Hope M. COOPER, 56, of Belmont, NY, died Thursday, December 25, 2025 in UR Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. Born January 3, 1969, in Cuba, she was the daughter of James D. and Sandra L. Brown Cooper.
A graduate of Belmont High School, she was employed by Glenn O. Hawbaker, Rochester Gravel, and Howlett Farms in Avon.
Surviving are: her parents, Jim and Sandy Cooper of Belmont; a grandson, Zachery Hockenberry of Emporium, PA; and a sister, Sherry Cooper of Belmont.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Courtney M. Clark. Memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, Belmont, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoustembser.com.
Barbara Ann Vecellio, 86, formerly of Drowney Road, Gifford, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born November 19, 1939, in Clarion she was a daughter of the late Edward and Miriam (Dean) Krafton. Barb graduated from Bradford Area High School in 1957.
On June 6, 1963, in Lewis Run, she married Ronald M. Vecellio who preceded her in death on September 4, 1997.
Barb was first employed at Forest Oil Company, later for Hounds & Hunting Magazine for 17 years and later at the Guidance Center from where she retired in 2005 after 28 years. After she retired, she continued in a part time capacity until 2009.
Barb was a former member of the Gifford United Methodist Church for many years until it closed, she then joined the Custer City United Methodist Church. She was a former member of the Bradford Area Women’s Club, a volunteer at the Friendship Table and the YWCA.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Visitation for Kathleen Ruth “Kathy” Derrick, 77, of Shinglehouse, will be held from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Myrtle Gospel Tabernacle, 1127 Rt 44, Shinglehouse, PA. A celebration of her life will follow at 1pm with Pastor Alan Mertsock, officiating.
Kathy passed away on December 16, 2025,
Kathy’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
OLEAN, NY—James C. “Jim” McMichael, 86, of Olean, passed away unexpectedly with his loving family by his side on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean.
Born on Thursday, October 5, 1939 in Tamaqua, PA, he was a son of Paul and Effie Jones McMichael. On August 2, 1959 in Valois, NY, he married Clara M. Williammee, who passed away on October 15, 2025.
Jim honorably served in the US Marine Corps from 1957 to 1960. Jim would say “I served for the love of my country”. After serving his country, Jim was employed making dynamite at Atlas Chemical and later transferred to a plant making Glycerin. He also enjoyed driving tractor trailer and driving a city bus in Auburn, NY, where he also was a driving instructor. His favorite job was driving milk trucks picking up at the local farms where he would visit with the farmers.
A very faithful person, Jim was a longtime member of the Ceres United Methodist Church in Ceres. One of his favorite pastimes was mowing his lawn and his neighbor’s lawns. He also enjoyed “keeping an eye on the neighbors and those driving up and down the road. He also enjoyed watching the deer in the neighborhood and enjoyed visiting Allegany State Park. Jim loved his family and enjoyed picking on them and playing jokes on them…they in turn returned the favor. He loved trying to put a smile on people’s faces in the stores.
Smethport – Joyce Ruth Green, 93, of Smethport, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday (December 26, 2025) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
She was born December 5, 1932 in Coleville, PA, the daughter of Cleveland and Mabel (Eschrich) Dawley. On June 23, 1950, in Coleville, PA, she married Paul F. Green, who died September 8, 2000.
Mrs. Green was a 1950 graduate of Bradford High School.
Joyce worked at Viko Ethan Allan and then worked for several years as an aide and activities director at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport. She also was a caregiver for her mother for several years, and later for her father-in-law, Frank Green.
Joyce was a member and organist at the Hilltop Baptist Church in Gifford, was a member and past officer of Smethport AARP, a member of the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club, the Smethport Senior Center and the Elderberries Club of Smethport, and the MJ2KB Trail Club.
Sandra K. “Toni” Smith, 85, of Bradford, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025 at the Pavilion at BRMC.
She was born on December 16, 1940 in Bradford; a daughter of the late Glenn and Christine Toothman Rouse.
She was a 1959 graduate of the former Allegany Central School, Allegany, NY.
On October 28, 1961 in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Port Allegany, she married Donald E. Smith who preceded her in death on May 10, 2012.
Toni was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Bradford. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting and baking. She was an excellent cook who learned how to cook from her grandmother. She was devoted to her family who were the most important people in her world.
Dana R. BECKHORN, 51, of Friendship, NY, formerly of Belmont, died Sunday, December 21, 2025, in UR Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. Born December 1, 1974, in Wellsville, he was the son of Hugh Beckhorn and Iva Baker Ward.
Dana worked as a landscaper and was employed as a machinist by Air Preheater in Wellsville. He enjoyed playing pool and working on cars. He was a Buffalo Bills and L.A. Lakers fan.
Surviving are: four children, Felicia Beckhorn, Danica Beckhorn, Colby Beckhorn, and Aubrey Beckhorn; two grandsons, Greyson and Joshua; four siblings, Stacy (Terrence) Monroe, Marcy Beckhorn, Tony Beckhorn, and Hugh Ward; nieces and nephews; and good friend, Dave Jefferds.
He was predeceased by his parents and a son, Hunter Beckhorn. Services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of the Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Olean- Shirley Ann Nitsche “Loving Mother, Grandmother & Sister”
Shirley A. Nitsche of Rowland Ave passed away on December 22, 2025, at Buffalo General Hospital following an illness.
Shirley was born on August 18, 1949, in Olean and was the daughter of Robert William and Sabina Ann Kwiatkowski Nitsche.
Shirley was a 1967 graduate of Walsh High School. She worked at Lucia’s Restaurant Supper Club for 22 years right out of high school. She owned and operated Bread Sticks on East State Street for 22 years. Shirley movies to Florida where she ran a restaurant called “Smugglers” for 15 years until moving back to Olean in 2012.
Shirley enjoyed shooting pool and playing darts. She loves her pets, especially her dogs; Zeus and Athena.
Joseph A. Floravit, 96, of Spruce Street, St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following a brief illness.
He was born on November 2, 1929 in Force, PA, a son of the late Thomas Floravit, Sr. and Anita Volpe Floravit.
On June 29, 1957, he married the late Dale S. Kraus, who preceded him in death on August 1, 2019. Together they shared more than 62 years of marriage.
Joe was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church. He retired from Stackpole after more than 30 years of service. With a great love for Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, Joe could often be found watching old country western movies. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandson.
Nancy Johnston 91, of 708 Second Avenue, entered into God’s mercy and justice on Thursday December 25, 2025, at UPMC-Hamot, Erie, following a brief illness.
She was born December 20, 1934, in Johnsonburg, daughter of the late John “Rufus” and Margaret Pendl Johnston. She graduated from Holy Rosary Elementary and Johnsonburg High School class of 1952. She was first employed by G.C. Murphy Co. Then in her senior year she was hired by the New York & Pennsylvania Co. She was a member of Holy Rosary Parish, Senior Choir and the Sodality of Our Lady. In 1967 she attended a Diocesan Cursillo Weekend in Erie which refocused her entire life.
While working with the Religious Ed Program in the late 1960’s, she was enticed to gather a group of students and provide a Folk Choir for a special Youth Liturgy. Due to the extraordinary talents of those students, and favorable response of the pastor and parishioners, the group then played for parish Masses and was invited to introduce Liturgical Folk Music to area parishes and ecumenically as well. Eventually a second group emerged under another director, and she returned to the Traditional Music ministry with the Senior Choir.
Darya “Dusty” Randall Byham, 77, of Charles St., St. Marys (formerly of Kane) passed away Tuesday (December 23, 2025) at her residence with her family at her side.
Born June 10, 1948, in Webster, NY, she was the daughter of the late Robert Baylard and Betty Reinisch O’Boyle. On January 29, 1972, she married James Byham (who preceded her in death) at Tabor Lutheran Church in Kane. They met in that same church and went on to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2022.
Dusty graduated from high school in New Canaan, CT. She went on to graduate from Alderson Broaddus University with a Bachelor Degree in Psychology. She spent most of her life as a social worker in both McKean and Elk Counties helping both children and adults. She also worked at the Kane Manor for several years where she had many fond memories working with the community. Dusty later retired from Pinecrest Manor as the Admissions Coordinator. Dusty was a very caring, selfless person. She loved to make other people happy, especially her children and grandchildren. She was beautiful both inside and out. She and Jim were always together. They were truly made for each other. The two of them very much enjoyed the years they lived and raised their children in Kane.
Patrick James SAWYER, 52, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer at the Palliative Care Unit at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester.
Born October 30, 1973, in Wellsville, he was the son of James L. and Sandra E. Wright Sawyer.
A 1992 graduate of Wellsville High School, he earned a degree in Computer Information Technology from JCC Cattaraugus Campus in 1994. Patrick was a former Assistant Store Manager at Giant Food Market in Cuba from 1996-2000 and then worked as a Project Manager and Corporate Training Consultant from 2000-2003 at Adelphia Communications and then became an Instructor for Adelphia University until 2006.
Raymond L. Eidson, 94, of Bradford, formerly of Pleasantville, passed away Sunday December 21, 2025, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born on September 27, 1931, in Bradford, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Nova (Chapman) Eidson. He was a 1950 graduate of Bradford High School.
On August 26, 1950, he then entered the United States Army, he served in Germany during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged on June 17, 1952.
On April 14, 1951, he married Donna (Woodley) Eidson who preceded him in death on January 9, 2009. On June 19, 2010, he married Audrey (Knight) Shaffer, who died December 27, 2022.
Mary Esther Holmberg, 53, of Coudersport, passed away Friday, December 23, 2025, at her home after an extended illness.
She was born in Coudersport on October 12, 1972, the daughter of the late Jacob Frombach and Naomi (Minor) Frombach of Coudersport. She married Jason C. Holmberg on December 18, 1999, and just celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary.
Kathy A. Lebon, of Warren, Pa, died in the early morning of Wednesday Dec. 17, 2025, after a long-fought battle with cancer. She passed away at home, with her loved ones. She was born December 30th, 1956, in Washington, Pa. She graduated from McGuffey high school in 1974 and continued her education at Penn Commercial. After completing her education, she was employed by 84 Lumber in Eighty Four, PA as a supervisor in their financial department. She then moved to Revere, Massachusetts and worked with her family. In 1989 she relocated to Warren, PA and worked in the financial department for Forrest Warren Human Services until June of 2025. She was also the YWCA Board President from 1995 to 1997 and on the Board of Directors at the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center in 1999.
She enjoyed spending time with her family, reading, hiking and anything else outdoors. She always put others before herself and loved to brighten up someone’s day. For many people she was the light that guided them through the dark times and was always there when it mattered the most.
Alwin “Dutch” Ingalls passed away December 19th at UPMC Cole surrounded by his loved ones following a brief battle with Cancer. Dutch will be remembered for his gentle nature, devotion to his family, and love of music.
He was born in Coudersport on September 14, 1957, the son of the late Alwin D. Ingalls and Patricia M. (Barber) Ingalls of Coudersport. Dutch is a graduate of Northern Potter High School. He most recently worked for Ram Forest Products and previously worked at Ulysses Lumber and several other local lumber yards as a Lumber Inspector. He also owned and operated the former God’s Country Music store on Main St., Coudersport. Dutch was a former member of the Gospel Tabernacle where he played in the praise band for over 35 years. While attending the Gospel Tabernacle he traveled to Romania to help in the church and orphanage project. He loved playing and teaching guitar, and music played an important part of his life. He was also a car enthusiast, an avid outdoorsman and president of PEWA.
One of his greatest joys was his family, he was a doting grandfather who took immense pride in watching his family grow.
Gail E. McChesney, 86, of Russell, PA, died on Saturday December 20, 2025, at Warren General Hospital, after an extended illness.
He was born in Torpedo, PA, on December 17, 1939, the son of the late Raymond and Bernice Martin McChesney. Gail graduated from Youngsville High School, Class of 1959. After graduating, Gail served in the United States National Guard for 8 years. He worked as a machine operator with MRC Bearings and later SKF Aero Engines, retiring in 2002 after 30 years of service. Gail then drove school bus for Decker Transportation, for the Warren County School District, which he really enjoyed.
Gail enjoyed watching Pittsburgh Steelers football, Nascar Racing, and playing and watching golf. He also was a motorhead and enjoyed tinkering, hot rods, fast cars, dirt track racing, and was a diehard Chevy man. His main passion was his family and friends, he cherished time spent with all of them, sharing stories and laughs, and enjoyed holiday gatherings.
Susan Annette Yaegle Huckabone, 84, of Warren, PA., died on Saturday December 20, 2025, in the Rouse Home after an extended illness.
She was born July 13, 1941, in Warren, PA. Sue was the daughter of Robert J. and Lois E. Chambers Yaegle. She was a lifelong Warren area resident and a 1959 graduate of Warren High School. She graduated and earned her Bachelors of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education from Edinboro University Class of 1963. She was employed with the Warren County School District for 30 years, teaching at all Elementary Schools except Tidioute School and was a substitute teacher for 10 years, retiring in 2002. She began her teaching career from Irvinedale Elementary and finished at Pleasant Elementary School. She loved teaching and all of her students. Sue was recognized in Who’s Who in American Colleges.
She enjoyed going to the casino with her son and friends, lunches with friends, one stroke painting, roller skating, bowling, and an avid book reader. She played accordion and organ for personal pleasure. Family, teaching and her home were highlights in her life. Her special goal in life was to be as good of a mother as her mother was to her growing up.
Clare M. “Babe” Horchen, 96, a resident of Silvercreek Terrace and formerly of Maple Street, St. Marys, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, Friday, December 19, 2025 at Penn Highlands Elk.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Ramona M. ALLEN, 86, of Wellsville, NY, formerly of Alfred Station, died Friday, December 19, 2025 in her home. Born October 14, 1939, in Haverhill, NH, she was the daughter of Otis and Pearl Spink Moses.
On July 16, 1960, in Alfred Station, she married Russell L. Allen, who survives. A graduate of Batavia High School, she attended Alfred State College. Ramona was employed as librarian’s aide by Alfred-Almond Central School District. She was a member of Alfred Station Seventh Day Baptist Church.
Surviving besides her husband, Russell, are: three children, Laurie (Ron) Johnson of Wellsville, Shawn Allen of Andover, and Trina (Dwane Wildrick) Allen of Philipsburg, PA; seven grandchildren, James (Devin) Johnson, Kim (John) Foster, Jessamine (Brandon) Gallagher, Ivy (Zachary) Hoyer, Max (Kendall Feldmann) Johnson, Colby (Sara) Allen, and Hunter Allen; 13 great-grandchildren, Mackenzie (Jim Masterson) Johnson, Kortney Johnson, John Foster, Storm Foster, Brantley Gallagher, Oliver Gallagher, Adaline Gallagher, Odin McGraw, McKalynn Hoyer, Ana Hoyer, Ember Hoyer, Cameron Allen, and Andie Allen; and a great-great-granddaughter, Temperance Reedy.
She was predeceased by two brothers, John Moses and Teddy Moses. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to SPCA serving Allegany County or the Comfort House of Allegany County.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State St., Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Betsy A. “Betty Lou” McLANE, 73, of Bolivar, NY, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025 in her home. Born October 11, 1952, in York, PA, she was the daughter of Edwin and Mary Louise Albright Rowe.
She worked as a waitress and in food service most of her life. Betsy was employed by The Old Library and The Castle in Olean, Dave’s Diner in Ceres, Jim Day’s Sub Shop in Bolivar, Giant in Wellsville, and as a caregiver by ARC of Allegany-Steuben in Wellsville.
