Obituaries

Lee J. COWBURN, 83, of Ulysses, PA, died Thursday, March 20, 2025 in her home.  

Born March 31, 1941, in Rochester, NY, she was the daughter of Arnold R. and Leona M. Jones Goerner.  On July 25, 1965, in Kingston, GA, she married Ronald G. Cowburn, who predeceased her on September 8, 2010.  

Debbie J. BREWER, nee Perkins, 70, of Coudersport, PA, died Saturday, March 15, 2025 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.  

Born November 7, 1954, in Wellsville, NY, she was the daughter of Jack Carl and Loraine Shelley Perkins.  She attended school in Smethport until her family moved to California.  Debbie devoted her life to raising her sons.  She was employed as a deli manager and worked as a tax preparer until her health failed.  Debbie was an avid bird watcher and an excellent cook.  

Drew Eric HEISEY, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2025, at the age of 39.  Born March 14, 1986, in Wellsville, NY, he was the son of Daryl and Linda Peters Heisey of Rexville, NY.

Growing up on a farm, Drew developed a strong work ethic from an early age, helping with daily chores and responsibilities.  He cherished the outdoors, spending countless hours fishing, hunting, and riding with friends.  In more recent years, Drew also developed a love for golf, a sport where he found peace and joy, often enjoying the game with those closest to him. 

A 2004 graduate of Whitesville Central School, Drew excelled in athletics, with basketball being his lifelong passion.  One of his proudest moments came during his senior year when he led his team to the State finals alongside his best friends and family, and supported by the unwavering spirit of his tight-knit community.

Patricia Anne Pecora passed away peacefully of natural causes on Friday, March 21, 2025, with family members by her side. 

Patricia was born September 6, 1925, and spent most of her life in Bradford.

After graduating as valedictorian of her high school class in 1942 from Bradford Area High School. Pat married the love of her life, Maurice Pecora, who predeceased her. 

Patricia L. Tankersley            

Patricia L. “Pat” Tankersley, 83, of Roulette, passed away in her home with her loving family by her side on Sunday, March 23, 2025, after a long illness.

Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.

Dr. Anita J. Herbert, 87, formerly of Derrick Road, a resident of Chapel Ridge, Bradford, passed away, Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.

Born January 7, 1938, in Rew, she was a daughter of the late R.D. Herbert and Carrie (Coleman) Bryson. She was a 1955 graduate of Bradford High School.

Anita was a 1959 graduate of the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor of Science Degree in chemistry. Anita continued her education at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in 1963.

Anita completed her internship and residency training at EJ Meyer Memorial Hospital in Buffalo and at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. After finishing her residencies, she came to Bradford in 1968 and practiced internal medicine, with affiliation at Bradford Hospital. In 1974 she was board-certified in Internal Medicine and became a diplomat for the National Board of Internal Medicine.

Gloria Suppa

Gloria J. Suppa, 78, of Pleasant Township, Warren, PA., died Saturday morning, March 22, 2025, with her family at her side.

Gloria was born January 8, 1947, in Warren, PA. She was the daughter of Naomi “Jeanette” Hatch Font Walstrom and Francis Anthony “Shay”Font. Gloria was a lifelong Warren area resident. She was a 1965, graduate of Warren High School.

She worked with her husband, Victor at Suppa Shell Station, retiring after many years. She was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church, the Ladies Auxiliaries of the Warren Eagles Aerie, Warren American Legion Post 135, and Son of Italy.

Larry L. Saar, 83, of Bradford, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family and little dog, Penny.

He was born on October 17, 1941 in Bradford, a son of the late James and Frances Ward Saar.

He was a 1960 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.

On October 31, 1964 in the West Branch United Methodist Church; he married Kathleen Clark who survives.

Larry’s story began on a small farm up Harrisburg Run, where he grew up surrounded by family and horses. His “no fear” nature led him to ride broncos for a short time in the rodeo circuit. He worked alongside his father in their family-owned oilfield.

Patricia E. Quagliani, 89, of 104 Homestead Road, Kersey, passed away Friday, March 21, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home, after a lengthy illness.

She was born November 20, 1935, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Henry and Anna Haberberger Eckert.  She was a retired employee of Stackpole Carbon, later Carbone of America, retiring in 1997.

Andrew Ernest Agosti, beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend, coach, and co-worker, passed away on March 20, 2025, with his loved ones by his side.  Andy was born on July 28, 1976, in Ridgway, PA, to parents William and Ann Dietz Agosti. His life was built on the values they instilled in him: a love of adventure (especially at the beach), helping others, a strong work ethic, and a passion for football—particularly the Buffalo Bills.

Michael R. Bero, 65, of Warren, PA., died Thursday afternoon, March 20, 2025, after an extended illness.  Michael was born September 10, 1959, in Niagara Falls, N.Y.  He is the son of Mary A. O’Donnell Johnson of Clarendon, PA., and the late Lawrence W. Bero.  Michael was a resident of Warren, PA., most of his life.  He was a 1978 graduate of Warren Area High School.  He served with the U.S. Army as a Sergeant, in the mechanics division.

He was employed as a plastics operator in the molding department of Osram Sylvania, working there for many years, retiring due to illness.  He was an avid hunter, fisherman, outdoorsman.  He enjoyed spending time at his camp in Frewsburg, N.Y. with family, friends and especially with his grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He was especially attentive attending many of his son, Michael’s sporting activities, as well as his nieces, nephews and stepdaughters. He was a very proud “Uncle” who stuffed his nieces and nephews with candy and then sent them home for the parents to deal with. Michael was always there to help someone out and you could always count of him in any way.

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Benita E. Taylor of St. Mary’s, PA. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who passed away on Wednesday, March 19th and the age of 84.

Born in the beautiful town of Basco, Batanes, Philippines, on April 3, 1940 to the late Simon and Felisa Espinoza Del Rosario. Benita carried with her the warmth and resilience of her homeland throughout her life.

She was married to the late, Lynn H. Taylor, for 43 wonderful years. Together, they created a family that was her greatest pride and joy. She is survived by her three loving daughters, Jennifer Sparico and her husband Mark of Virginia, Kristine Burkholder and her husband Rick of Kansas, and Melissa Lambert and her husband John of Virginia who will cherish her wisdom, strength and unconditional love. She was preceded in death by her son, Darrell H. Taylor in 2023. She was also a proud grandmother to Samuel and Ava Sparico, Quinn and Carly Burkholder and to her precious great-grandson, Jett Ward.

Inez K. Jordan, 81, of Emporium, PA passed away unexpectedly at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown, PA on Wednesday night (March 19, 2025). She was born June 1, 1943 in St. Marys, PA a daughter of the late Lloyd and Faye Dempsey Mitchell. On August 30, 1958 in Emporium, PA she married Charles C. Jordan, who survives.

Mrs. Jordan graduated from Cameron County High School in the class of 1962. She worked in the deli at Olivett’s Grocery Store for over 23 years. She was currently serving as Secretary of Portage Township Cemetery. She was a member of the Driftwood Senior Center. Inez was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed help. She will be greatly missed.

Eugene R. Mills, 91, of 110 Olean Street, Bolivar, passed away Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Wellsville Manor Care Center after a short illness.

Born on November 12, 1933, in Wellsville, he was the son of Ralph and Hattie (Roeske) Mills.

Eugene worked construction for many years prior to his retirement.

Jon Ransom, 66, of 874 High Street, Bradford, passed away peacefully with his wife Judy, his sister Janet, and Pastor Barry via phone by his side on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Health Center in Erie.

Born on January 8, 1959, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Robert Ransom and Margaret A. (Young) Ransom, who survives. He was a 1976 graduate from Bradford High School.

On May 29, 1998, he married Judy (Baney) Ransom, who survives.

Violette W. McLitus, 95, of Wellsboro, passed away, Friday, March 21, 2025, at her daughters home, with whom she lived.  She was born on January 16, 1930, in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of the late Thomas Welsh and Violette (Heineken) Hoaglin.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jude A. Zimmett, of St. Marys. Jude passed away on March 20, 2025 at the Mountain Laurel Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Clearfield, PA.

He was a beloved son, husband, father, and friend, whose kindness and warmth touched all that knew him. Whether through his unwavering support for family, dedication to his wife, or simply a kind word to a stranger, Jude left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Jude was born on September 20, 1952, a son of the late Alvin Zimmett and Shirley Braun Zimmett, who survives of St. Marys.

Andrew E. Agosti, 48, of 1439 Rosely Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Thursday, March 20, 2025 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. 

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Diana Lynn Sherman, age 73, passed away on March 19, 2025, after an acute illness.

She was the daughter of Robert L Sherman and Rebecca Guilds Sherman Outman. Diana was the eldest of nine which proved to mold her into a person who always stuck up for the underdog.

Even though she resided in several different locations throughout her life, her heart always yearned for home (Potter County). She didn’t mince words or sugar coat things. She took great pride in her dedication and work ethic. Her most fulfilling job was being a traveling photographer for a large chain store.

Dr. Anita J. Herbert, 87, formerly of Derrick Road, a resident at Chapel Ridge, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Esther A. Williams, 57, of Coudersport, PA, passed away at the UPMC Williamsport Hospital on March 17, 2025.

Born August 16, 1967, to the late Harry and Nellie (Gleason) Smith, Esther was a 1986 graduate of the Dundee Central School. In the fall of that year, she married the love of her life, Eric Williams. Esther loved her life as a homemaker as it gave her time to crochet and enjoy moments with her children. She was a loving wife and would always take time to help anyone in need.

Michael Bero

Michael R. Bero, 65, of Warren, PA., died Thursday afternoon, March 20, 2025. 

A visitation will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA.

A complete obituary will be announced when available.

Mark G. Willcox, 65, of Port Allegany, passed away Wednesday (March 19, 2025) at Buffalo General Medical Center, Buffalo, NY.

He was born June 3, 1959 in Port Allegany, the son of Alan and Genevieve Willcox. He was married to Margaret Kochel who preceded him in death.

Mr. Willcox was a laborer, employed by Pittsburg Corning Corporation in Port Allegany.

Anita L. McDowell, 87, of Crosby, passed away Thursday (March 20, 2025) at Sena Kean Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.

She was born December 28, 1937 in Farmers Valley, the daughter of Walter and Violet (Hibbard) Russell. On January 29, 1955, in Farmers Valley, she married James R. McDowell, who died February 22, 2024.

Anita attended Smethport schools and was employed at the former Smethport Diner as a cook for a period of time and then for Backus Company of Smethport, retiring in 2000 after 36 years of employment.

Anita loved family get-togethers where she could cook for the holidays, host summer picnics, and celebrate birthdays. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. She loved attending as many sporting events, concerts, and school activities as possible. She became a “Grandma” to all the kids that she touched with her smile, kindness, and support.  Anita was known for knitting the most beautiful baby sweaters and toddler zip-ups with pictures on the back. She also donated many mittens and hats. You could always find her in her chair knitting while watching her favorite game shows, rooting for her Pittsburgh Pirates and beloved Buffalo Bills.  Anita and Jimmy attended several NASCAR races in Dover, DE and Charlotte, NC.  They also traveled to Wheeling, WV to see country music entertainers and embarked on a family cruise to the Caribbean in 2009.  Anita also traveled with her sisters to San Francisco and New England. She had a full life, loved being with people, and will be missed by many.

Mark G. Willcox, 65, of Port Allegany, passed away Wednesday (March 19, 2025) at Buffalo General Medical Center, Buffalo, NY.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.

Larry L. Saar, 83, of Bradford, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family and little dog, Penny.

He was born on October 17, 1941 in Bradford, a son of the late James and Frances Ward Saar.

He was a 1960 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.

On October 31, 1964 in the West Branch United Methodist Church; he married Kathleen Clark who survives.

Nina J. Neel

Nina J. Neel, 99, of Warren, PA went to be with the Lord on Sunday evening, March 16, 2025, in the Warren Manor.

She was born in Dayton, PA on September 16, 1925, the daughter of the late Joseph and Mildred (Cochran) Bish.

Donna K. Matheson, 87, of Ridgway, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Christ the King Manor following a lengthy illness.

She was born on June 10, 1937, in Ridgway, the daughter of late Sherwood T. and Ethel H. Holm Matheson.

Donna was a lifelong resident of Ridgway and a proud and faithful member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Donna dedicated many years of her career to the printing department at Stackpole, and later became the tax collector for the Ridgway Borough. A lover of simple pleasures, Donna cherished her daily routines of savoring coffee, nurturing her garden, and decorating.