YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Julia Lavern Ells, 84, of W. Warren Avenue, Youngstown, departed this life Thursday, February 20, 2020 at 7:05 p.m. at Omni Manor, following an extended illness.

She was born April 10, 1935, in Youngstown, Ohio, the daughter of William Oliver and Beulah Phifer Floyd.

She was employed with the Youngstown City Schools for many years as a lunchroom aide before retiring.

She was a member of Third Baptist Church.

Julia enjoyed baking, cooking and caring for her beloved husband and family. Family meant everything to Julia.

She married Donald H. Ells, Sr. June 3, 1961.

Besides her husband of Youngstown, she leaves to mourn one son, Donald H. (Molly) Ells, Jr. of Lino Lakes, Minnesota; one brother, Lamont Floyd of Youngstown; three sisters, Ms. Ethel Pusey of Youngstown, Ms. Joretta Cotton of Cleveland and Ms. Yolanda Jenkins of Youngstown; two grandchildren, Ms. Kiah Ells (Arnold Thao) of Winona, Minnesota and Donald H. Ells III (Maggie McNeal) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; two great-grandchildren, Kinsley Thao and Rowan Ells and a host of relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Doreen Ells and four brothers, Cornelius Floyd, William Floyd, Alfred Floyd and Louis Floyd.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Third Baptist Church, where calling hours will be from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Burial will take place later at Belmont Park Cemetery.

Arrangements of comfort were handled by the Sterling-McCullough Williams Youngstown Funeral Home.

NEWTON FALLS, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Marvin James London, age 71, of Newton Falls passed away peacefully into eternal rest on Sunday, March 1, 2020, at the University Hospital of Cleveland. 

He was born on July 1, 1948 in Pontiac, Michigan, the son of the late Robert James London and Mary Elizabeth (Thompson) London. 

Marvin married the love of his life, Wanda L. Rogers on June 4, 1971 and they have enjoyed 48 years of marriage together.

Marvin had lived in Newton Falls since 1973 working as a press operator at General Motors for  31-1/2 years before retiring in 2003.

He was a member of the U.S. Army serving during the Vietnam War, the VFW in Newton Falls, and the UAW #1112 in Lordstown. 

He was also a devoted member of the General Assembly Church of God for over 40 years. 

Marvin enjoyed bowling, baseball, camping and just being outdoors. He loved his animals and spending time with his grandkids. 

Marvin is preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Harold Martin with whom raised Marvin since the age of three and two brothers, Walter and William Shultz.

Memories of Marvin will be carried on by his loving family: his wife, Wanda L. London of Newton Falls; his three daughters, Nicki Berry, Shelly London and Kayla (Michael) Slater, all of Newton Falls; his sister, Beverly (Glenn) Sexton of Gladstone, Michigan and his three grandchildren, Tiffany and Zackery Berry and Raylin Slater.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at the James Funeral Home in Newton Falls from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. 

Funeral services will be at the General Assembly Church of God in Newton Falls on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Mitch Meadors and Rev. Glen Rader officiating.

Marvin will be laid to rest at Newton Falls Cemetery with full military honors performed by the Newton Falls Veterans Honor Guard.

The family would like all donations to please be made to the General Assembly Church of God, 2021 East River Road, Newton Falls, OH 44444 in memory of Marvin.

Family and friends may send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 6:43 a.m. WYTV, 9:32 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV.

HUBBARD, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Charlene A. “Char” Zuzik, age 65 of Hubbard passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 28, 2020 at home.

Charlene was born January 21, 1955 in Youngstown, Ohio a daughter of Charles and Margaret Mehley Rosko.

She was a 1973 graduate of Chaney High School.

Char was a secretary at Saint Patrick School in Hubbard for 25 years retiring in 2015 and a member of Saint Patrick Roman Catholic Church.

Char loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren. She had a love for all animals and a special place in her heart for her dogs.

She will be sadly missed and remembered by her family: her husband, Paul whom she married October 8, 1977; her daughter, Melissa (Brian) O’Rourke of Columbus; her sons, Brian (Kerry) Zuzik of Girard and Jonathan (Sarah) Zuzik of North Jackson and her grandchildren, Mason, Molly and Samuel, with Jonathan and Sarah expecting, which will add another grandchild making the total four. She also leaves her sisters, Patty Freedman of Port St. Lucie, Florida and Margaret (Glenn) Shaulis of Hubbard.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 4, 2010 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Saint Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Hubbard.

A Mass of Christian Burial with the Rev. Michael Swierz officiating will be Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Saint Patrick Roman Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. with calling hours prior to the Mass from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home.

Family and friends are invited to visit the funeral home’s website at www.stewart-kyle.com to share memories.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 5:17 a.m. on WKBN, 8:39 a.m. on FOX, 5:21 p.m. on WYTV and 6:35 p.m. on MyYTV.

POLAND, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Erminio Malvestuto of Poland, Ohio, passed away Sunday morning, March 1, 2020 at St. Elizabeth hospital in Boardman.

Erminio was born March 15, 1929 in Sulmona, Italy. He was a son of Giuseppi and Maria Malvestuto.

Erminio traveled through South America working construction before moving to Canada and eventually, Youngstown, Ohio, where he was a member of Carpenter’s local union 171.

Erminio met his wife, Violet (Colangelo) and they married on July 29, 1961. They would have celebrated their 59th anniversary this year.

Before his illness, Erminio was an avid bowler and loved to play bocce and attend Youngstown State football games. He was a member of the Sulmona and Pacentrano clubs. He loved tending to his garden and enjoyed old western movies and Italian music. He loved spending time with his family, eating, laughing and making jokes.

Erminio leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Violet; children, Joseph (Toni) Malvestuto, Lou (Bonnie) Malvestuto, Mary (Calvin) Pannunzio and Theresa Malvestuto. He also leaves grandchildren that he loved greatly, Christopher (Lindsay) Lozano, Joey Malvestuto and Jeordie Malvestuto and a great-grandchild, Bentley Lozano. He will be sadly missed by sisters, Vincenza Bevilaqua, Anna (Sal) LaGuardia, Giovanna Lucente and Alma DiIorio; sisters-in-law, Judy Malvestuto, Josephine and her husband, Frank Rubino and a close-knit Italian family filled with a multitude of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was proceeded in death by a sister, Gina and her husband, Panfilo Iudiciani; a brother, Domenic Malvestuto and brothers-in-law, Felice Iudiciani, Tony Lucente, Benjamin and his wife, Barbara and Tony Colangelo.

A funeral service will be held 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020 at the Davis-Becker Funeral Home in Boardman.

Friends may call from 3:00 – 4:45 p.m. prior to the services at the funeral home on Thursday, March 5.

To send flowers to Erminio’s family, please visit our floral section.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV.

NEW CASTLE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Elizabeth “Betty” R. Black, age 93 of New Castle, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, February 28, 2020.

Betty was born in New Castle on February 18, 1927 to Ralph and Sandra (Farone) Covelli.

Growing up, she most enjoyed swimming downtown and yodeling on a local radio show. As an adult, Elizabeth took pride in her “at home” notary service and writing skills. She spent countless days at the library, conducting research for her novels and published poetry, as well but throughout her life, her passion was caring for the elderly, as a certified nursing assistant and home health care provider.

In her personal life, Betty’s greatest joys came from baking our favorite cookies for the holidays, wrapping hundreds of gifts and spending precious time with her beloved family.

She was married 48 years to the late James E. Black (Jim), who passed just 12 days before her. Jim loved Elizabeth beyond measure and it is apparent, that they could not exist apart.

The couple were business savvy and once owned multiple stores, including “J & E” grocery and pool hall on Mill Street. They also adored animals and were known to have exotic pets. Betty and Jim vacationed with relatives in Florida and were members of St. Vitus Church.

She prayed for us, using her beautiful rosary, with every sunrise and now, we shall pray for her. Elizabeth’s memory will be cherished eternally, by those blessed enough to have been a part of her life and words cannot express the sorrow felt by her family. For where there was a great love, there will be great grief.

Elizabeth is survived by her three children, Sandra Wilson (Lee Harmon) of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Rosanne Bradley (Steve) of New Castle and Albert Jurina, Sr. (Carol) of New Castle; one stepson, William Black (Suze) of Dunedin, Florida; three brothers, Frank Covelli, Sr. (Peggy), Richard Covelli, Sr. (Patty) and Robert Covelli, Sr., all of New Castle. Betty was also a proud grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of ten.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Black; a brother, Ralph Covelli, Jr.; a sister, Donna Venasco; her parents and a stepdaughter, Barbra Black.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue.

A Blessing Service will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home chapel; Deacon Dan Kielar will officiate.

Burial will be in St. Vitus Cemetery.

NEW CASTLE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Karen Sue McConnaughy, 66, of East Home Street, died Saturday, February 29, 2020 at her home in New Castle.

She was born in New Castle on August 5, 1953 a daughter of the late Charles and Nellie (Graham) Craven.

She was married to the late David E. McConnaughy who died October 29, 2010.

Karen worked in the kitchen at Golden Hill Nursing Home.

She enjoyed art, watching scary movies and spending time with her family.

She is survived by four children, Doug Mullins of West Pittsburg, William Mullins and his wife, Lori, of New Castle, David J. McConnaughy and his wife, Samantha, of New Castle and Ashley Alwahkyan of New Castle; one brother, Randy Carven of Florida; two sisters, Denise Bonzo of Florida and Sherry Humphrey of Grove City; 12 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

There are no services scheduled at this time.

Funeral arrangements are by the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue.

NEW CASTLE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Peter John Mangino, 62, of Martha Street died Monday, March 2, 2020 at his home in New Castle.

He was born in New Castle on March 1, 1958 a son of the late Andy and Delores (Bulisco) Mangino.

Pete was a truck driver for over 30 years working for numerous companies including CJ Long and McClymonds Trucking.

He also enjoyed riding Harley Davidson motorcycles and spending time with his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by two brothers, Richard “Rick” Mangino and his wife, Mindy, of Tennessee and Andy “Munj” Mangino and his wife, Janine, of New Castle and a number of nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Gray Mangino and one sister, Andrea Mangino-Styers.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 6, 2020 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue.

A blessing service will be held Friday, March 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at the William F. DeCarbo Memorial Chapel. Deacon John Carran of Holy Spirit Parish will officiate.

Burial will be at St. Vitus Cemetery.

SALEM, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Theresa M. Eichler, 60, died Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Salem Regional Medical Center.

She was born August 6, 1959 in Salem, a daughter of James and Carol (Rouse) Murphy.

Theresa was of the Catholic faith and attended St. Paul Catholic Church.

She was a 1977 graduate of Salem High School.

Her true joy and passion was her family.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Eichler of Salem, whom she married February 6, 1981; two sons, Chance and Tyler Eichler of Damascus; one stepson, Billy (Carina) Eichler, Jr. of Texas; her mother, Carol Murphy of Salem; two sisters, Patricia (Patrick) Reed of Illinois and Sharon (Mark) Culp of Salem; two stepgrandchildren, Carolyne Grace and Benjamin Eichler of Texas; a nephew, Bob Reed of Illinois and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Murphy and her cousin who was like a brother, Kevin Smith.

A funeral service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Stark Memorial with Father Robert Edwards officiating.

Friends and family will be received from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service on Thursday, March 5.

To send condolences or to send flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

To send flowers to Theresa’s family, please visit our floral section.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 6:43 a.m. WYTV, 9:32 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV.

PULASKI, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Peter Cefrick, Jr., 82, of Pulaski, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2020 at the Grove in New Wilmington with family at his side.  
  
Peter was born on May 29, 1937 to Peter and Helen M. (Tomer) Cefrick, Sr. in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania.

He graduated from West Middlesex High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy from Duquesne University.

He served in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Peter worked as a pharmacist for St. Elizabeth Hospital until his retirement.

On March 3, 1962 he married his wife, Roberta (Rodgers) Cefrick, who survives at home.
  
He was a member of St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church where he participated in many church activities, ushering and golfing in the church league.

In his younger years he played softball and umpired softball locally. Peter also enjoyed gardening. He loved to watch his grandsons play sports.
  
Peter is survived by his loving wife, Roberta; daughter, Lori Ann Cefrick-Jancso of West Middlesex; son, Paul Alan Cefrick of Pulaski; grandsons, Jonathan Peter Jancso and his fiancée, Alyssa Boyle and Jeremy Thomas Jancso and sisters, Cynthia (Robert) Bulick of Sharon, Patricia Taylor of New Wilmington and Helen Ruth Caldwell of Merrillville, Indiana.
  
He was preceded in death by his father, Peter Cefrick, Sr. and mother, Helen M. Cefrick.
  
Parastas prayer service will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. in the Sherman Funeral Home, 2201 Highland Road, Hermitage, PA 16148.

Friends may call Wednesday March 4, 2020 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home.

Panachida prayer service will be offered Thursday March 5, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Funeral Divine Liturgy will be at 11:00 a.m. in St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church with Rev. Kevin Marks, officiating.

Burial will take place in St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Cemetery.

HERMITAGE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – David William Lenhart of Hermitage passed away Saturday, February 29.

Per David’s request, there will be no services.

Arrangements handled by John Flynn Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV.

WEST SALEM TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Richard H. “Rick” Smith, Sr., age 68 of Clarksville Street, West Salem Township, passed away Sunday morning, March 1, 2020 after a courageous six month battle with Leukemia.

Rick was born in Greenville on September 30, 1951 to the late Robert and Margaret Smith.

He attended grade school at St. Paul’s and graduated from Reynolds High School in 1969.

He was employed with the Borough of Greenville in the Streets Department for 41 years. He also owned and worked with his wife, Mickey’s Cleaning. In addition, he also worked the Pro Shop at Hartstown Golf Course.

He married Marguerite “Mickey” Brown on September 7, 1974. He somehow got her to love two of his favorite past-times, riding his motorcycle and camping. Their favorite spot for many years has been their camper at Kibbie’s Island, Tionesta.

Over the years Rick was very involved with his son’s activities from being assistant Scout Master to Cub and Boy Scout Troop 99, receiving the District Award of Merit in 1988 and coaching Little League Baseball and Reynolds Pee Wee Football. From the early 1970’s to the early 1980’s Rick was well-known as Greenville’s Santa Claus’s helper, greeting children at Central Park and riding in the Christmas parades. Only special men are picked for a job as important as that!

Rick had many interests including fishing, old westerns, scrabble and chess; Rick took special pride in mowing his grass! He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates fan. He loved all animals……well except birds. His greatest joy came from his family. He adored Mickey and especially his grandchildren.

He leaves behind Mickey; sons, Rob and wife, Lori, of Girard, Ohio, Rick, Jr. and his wife, Shelly, of Boardman, Ohio and Matt of Greenville; a daughter, Michele Butler of Greenville; sister-in-laws, Debbie Smith of Jamestown, Becky and Doug Haylett and Gerri and Larry Davis both of Greenville; brothers-in-law, Mike and Diana Brown of Clarion, Dan and Carla Brown of Greenville, Bob and Kathy Brown of Hartstown and Bill and Tina Brown of Jamestown; ten grandchildren, Shane and Trevor Adams, Jesse (Jessica) New, Justin and Dylan Smith, Ciearra and Elizabeth Smith, Alix, Mia and Willow Smith and a great-grandchild, Hunter New. Also, Mickey’s large Brown family, of which he was a very important part. A very special friend who was like a dad to him, Sam Elia and many close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jeff Smith and an infant daughter, Sara.

Per Rick’s request, cremation was chosen and services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Greenville Pink Angels c/o The Northern Mercer County Foundation, 7 W. State Street #301, Sharon, PA 16146 or to Greenville High School Marching Band, c/o Alecia Eppley, 71 Chambers Avenue, Greenville, PA 16125.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to Loutzenhiser-Jordan Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 366-368 S. Main St. Greenville.

ELLWOOD CITY, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Ted C. Ford, 89, of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at Northview Estates in Ellwood City on Monday, March 2.

He was the son of the late Raymond and Ina Dunham Ford and was born on February 7, 1931 in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his wife, of 12 years, Hazel Beltz Ford, of Ellwood City; son, Ronald Ford of North Beaver Towmship, Pennsylvania; sister, Janine Nichol and her husband, John, of Colorado; stepchildren, Brenda Peffer and her husband, Vic, of Zelienople, Pennsylvania, Sharon Swortwood of Ellwood City and Pamela MacMurdo and her husband, Duke, of Zelienople, Pennsylvania; four stepgrandchildren and three stepgreat-grandchildren.

He was married to Hazel Beltz Ford and attended Christ Presbyterian Church in Ellwood City.

Ted was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving proudly from 1949-1953, during the Korean War and spent 17 months in Korea. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal with five Bronze Campaign Stars.

He was retired from Ellwood City Forge with 32 years of service.

He was also an avid golfer with a 7-handicap and was proud to have three hole in ones. Ted was also an avid hunter. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Norma Jean Meiter Ford; one brother, William Ford and a sister, Carol Rozanski.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., with full military honors to be rendered by the Veteran’s Honor Guard at 6:00 p.m. at the Turner Funeral Home, 500 6th Street, Ellwood City, PA. A Memorial Service will follow, at 7:00 p.m., with Reverend Todd Custer, officiating.

Inurnment will be in Wurtemburg Cemetery in Wayne Township, Pennsylvania at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to St. Jude, at stjude.org or the charity of your choice, in Ted’s name.

You may sign his guestbook, or send condolences at: www.turnerfh.com

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ted C. Ford please visit our Sympathy Store.

CANFIELD, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Fernando “Fred” Marinucci, 84, passed away Friday, February 28, 2020, at his home surrounded by his entire family.

He was born May 15, 1935 in Sulmona, Italy, a son of the late Antonio and Giovanna (LaMarca) Marinucci.

Fred grew up in Bugnara, Italy. At the age of 18 he immigrated to the United States with his sister to live in Youngstown with their mother.

He worked at Republic Steel Corporation/LTV for over 47 years.

Fred is survived by his wife of 56 years, Arleen (Scott) Marinucci; son, Daniel at home; two daughters, Gina (Kevin) McHenry of Canfield and Patricia (Kerry) Kimerer of Boardman; three grandchildren, Kelly McHenry, Scott (fiancée, Annie Holey) McHenry and Kyle Kimerer; sister, Mary Giancola of Struthers; niece, Mary Lou Dolson; nephew, Dean (Denise) Giancola; great-nieces and nephews, Stephanie (Ben) Goldman, Brian Dolson, Jenelle (Sahile) Chawla and Nicholas, of whom he was especially fond (Natalie) Giancola; a great-great-niece and a great-great-nephew. He is also survived by many cousins, as well as, his “Little Sis” Rae and Gary Pazak.

He was also preceded in death by infant brother, Dominic; brother-in-law, Antonio Giancola and nephew, Bill Dolson.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. at St. Christine Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m.

Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to Dr. James Stille who went above and beyond caring for his patient and friend. Dr. Stille’s kindness, compassion and dedication will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, material tributes may take the form of donations to St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Avenue, Youngstown, OH 44511 or the American Cancer Society, 525 N Broad Street, Canfield, OH 44406.

To send flowers to Fernando “Fred” Marinucci’s family, please visit our floral section.

POLAND, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Dr. Raymond Sesti Boniface, 95, of Poland, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2020. 

He was born on August 6, 1924, in the Bloomfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was part of a large family of one brother and five sisters who had a strong influence on his life and guided him through much of his educational endeavors.

Dr. Boniface was a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh and Duquesne University in 1948, where he studied German and Biology. 

His academic career was interrupted by military service in World War II, where he served in the United States Army as a rifleman with the 83d Infantry Division in Belgium, Holland and Germany and as a replacement of the casualties of the Battle of the Bulge. He earned two battle stars while serving with the 83rd Division. He then served one year during the Army occupation.

After returning from the war and completing his undergraduate degree, he received his medical degree from the University of Bologna in Italy, began his medical internship in 1952 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, opened his general medical practice in 1954 and then specialized in psychiatry in 1968 after a further medical residency at Western Psychiatric Institute at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Boniface was a consummate physician who loved and was loved by his patients.

His life will forever be cherished in by his loving wife of 65 years, Jacqueline Marie Clair; his children, Raymond (Nancy Gantt) Boniface of Youngstown, Phyllis (Robert Steele) Boniface of Ypislanti, Michigan, Thomas (Elisabeth Young) Boniface of Youngstown, Juliet (Jonathan) Krassenstein of Pittsburgh, Carla (Doug) Devlin of Pittsburgh, James (Christine) Boniface of Youngstown, Diane (John) Hopper of Bluffton, South Carolina and Robert (Amy) Boniface of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan; 28 grandchildren and surviving sisters, Lillian Paciotta and Dolores Boniface, both of Pittsburgh. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Filomina and Sesti Bonifacio; his brother, Ettore and his sisters, Matilda, Gilda and Geneva.

The family extends its deep gratitude to Dr. Santuccio Ricciardi and to Hospice of the Valley. 

Visitation will be 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2020, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel. 

A Mass of Christian burial will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020, at Holy Family Catholic Church, followed by interment at Poland Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market Street, Youngstown, OH 44512 or Raymond and Jacqueline Boniface/Young Scholarship Endowment, c/o Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) Foundation, 4209 St. Rt. 44, Rootstown, OH 44272, https://www.neomed.edu/give/bluefund

Condolences may be shared at www.higgins-reardon.com.

To send flowers to Dr. Raymond Sesti Boniface’s family, please visit our floral section.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 5:17 a.m. on WKBN, 8:39 a.m. on FOX, 5:21 p.m. on WYTV and 6:35 p.m. on MyYTV.

CAMPBELL, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Tony Cougras, local football legend, dies at age 85.

A trifecta Athletic Hall of Fame inductee for Youngstown State University, Campbell Memorial High School and The Curbstone Coaches’ Association, valley native Tony Cougras passed away peacefully in the home that he had built for his family, on Sunday morning, March 1, after an extended illness and a heartwarming evening with his family and caretakers who all rallied around him.

A loving husband, an amazing patriarch, grandfather, great-grandfather, leader, mentor, coach, teacher, athlete, teammate and businessman, Tony’s greatest attribute was that he had a heart big enough to embrace us all. He had an impact on everyone he touched in each of these roles during his full life of 85 years.

Most widely known in the valley for his athletic prowess, Tony was a lifelong Campbell native who played football for legendary Red Devil Head Coach John Knapic. A 1952 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, he was a letterman from 1949-1952 in 3 sports – baseball, football and track. In 1951, he helped lead Campbell to their first ever Steel Valley Conference crown on the baseball diamond. It is as a football player, however, that he made his mark as an athlete and what an athlete he was! His play was as hardnosed as it comes, contributing to very competitive SVC league titles in 1950 and 1951 for his alma mater. At the tender age of 16, he served as Co-Captain of the 1951 squad and thereafter until graduation, earning First Team All-Steel Valley laurels as a junior and senior, also having been selected as the team’s MVP and an All-State selection as a senior.

Recruited by Ohio State, Indiana, Purdue and Arizona among other colleges and universities, Tony actually abandoned the train station while on his way to Arizona as he decided he could not leave his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Doris and choosing to attend the then Youngstown College instead. It was a decision that he never regretted and one that made the late, great Penguin Head Coach Dwight “Dike” Beede and his staff very happy. He was a regular on the Penguin grid squad from the moment he stepped foot on the campus when you were only permitted one substitution per quarter. He started four seasons for the Penguins earning four letters while serving as Captain of the team as a senior. Selected by a panel of sportswriters, sportscasters and college officials as the Alpha Phi Delta Outstanding Athlete for the 1956-57 season, he was also afforded Little All-American honors in his senior season. A member of Theta Chi Fraternity, he was named to Williamson Rating System Mid-Bracket All-American Squad, also garnering All Ohio Collegiate All-American Honors according to the UPI wire service in 1956. Known as the “glue-tip-fingered-end” because he never dropped the ball once he received it, he graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education with the dream of becoming a teacher and football coach in the place that he always called home.

There was no NFL Draft at that time, but Tony received invitations to try out for numerous professional football teams, namely the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Colts. Once again, he opted to stay home for reasons of love, marrying his high school sweetheart, the former Doris Jean Poulos, turning his high school’s Homecoming Queen into his queen for life on June 8, 1957.

From the playing field to the coaching box, Tony’s career in football did not skip a beat when his playing days were over, beginning his coaching career in 1957 as an assistant coach in Lowellville then at North High School in Youngstown, returning to his alma mater in 1964 as an assistant until he was recruited back to YSU to coach under his own college coach, Dike Beede, in 1966.

There aren’t many former athletes who can boast that they had a chance to serve their alma maters as a player and a coach, but Tony had that opportunity in 1967 when he was hired as Head Coach of the Campbell Memorial Red Devils, holding that post until the end of the 1973 season. During his tenure with the Red Devils, he led them to a top 10 ranking in the final 1971 OHSAA grid poll in Class “AA” when the Red Devils were ranked 9th in the state that year, earning Mahoning Valley “AA” Coach of the Year honors the following season. He is credited with being very instrumental in helping his athletes pursue college football careers and developing young men of character. Regional Director of The Ohio High School Football Coaches Association for several years, he was chosen President of the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association in 1971, where he continued to serve on the Executive Board, developing friendships with many area coaches including Don Bucci of Cardinal Mooney High School who gave the address at his Testimonial Dinner in 1974.

Upon his retirement from teaching in the Campbell City Schools, Tony began a painting business, Anthony Painting and employed his sons in their early work years from which they made many memories working together.

A member of Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, Tony served on the Parish Council at one time and was also a member of the Prodromos Kalymnian Society in his younger years.

Although football was his first love, it took a backseat to his love for his family and in return, he was loved abundantly by them. His beloved wife of 63 years, Doris, was the love of his life and his most devoted caretaker. Tony leaves as a legacy in his loving children, Maria (Pappas), Cathy (Jerry) Suess, Christine (Jim) Ciccolelli, Ted (Sheila) and Tony Cougras who, through their care and sacrifices, made it possible for him to remain in his home during an extended illness. He will leave a great void in the lives of his precious grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Doris Jenna (John) Stanko, Elizabeth Suess, Jim (Arianna) Ciccolelli, Anthony Ciccolelli, Theodora Taylor, Michael Theodore and Concetta Maria Cougras who love and adore him with all of their hearts. He also leaves a great-granddaughter, baby Aiana Christine Ciccolelli and a host of nieces and nephews who all admire him.

Preceding him in death were his beloved parents, Theodore and Maria Koumianou Cougras; a sister, Katharine Darkadakis; an infant son, Theodore Peter; an infant grandson, Anthony James Cougras and a daughter-in-law, Pamela DeNiro Cougras.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2020, at Noon at Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, 401 12th Street, Campbell. The family will accept condolences at the church two hours prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Tony’s memory to the church or to YSN (Your Sports Network), a media company that broadcasts local sporting events via live streaming. Their website www.YSNlive.com enabled Tony to enjoy watching his grandchildren, Michael and Connie, compete as star athletes for the Poland Bulldogs while he was homebound, which brought such joy to his life. Contributions can be sent to YSN, 169 East Taggart Street, East Palestine, OH 44413.

Arrangements handled by Wasko Funeral Home.

To send flowers to Anthony M. “Tony” Cougras’ family, please visit our floral section.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 6:43 a.m. WYTV, 9:32 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV.

NEW CASTLE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – On Saturday, February 29, 2020, Albert Derwin Rodgers, Sr., age 64, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, passed into the Lord’s embrace.

He was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania on September 30, 1955 to Wilbur Coburn and Blanche (Kettler) Rodgers.

Albert is survived by his children, Jamie (Chip Billings) Mitteff of Rostraver, Pennsylvania, Albert D. (Tina) Rodgers, Jr. of New Castle, Pennsylvania, April D. (Danny Shaner, Jr.) Rodgers-Berresford of New Philadelphia and Elizabeth M. (Pete Lingenfelter) Rodgers of Edinburg, Pennsylvania; 23 grandchildren; one great-grandchild and one on the way; sister, Linda (James) Caruso of New Wilmington, Pennsylvania; sister-in-law, Loretta Mills-Rodgers of New Castle, Pennsylvania and former spouse, Mary Ellen Rodgers of Boardman.

Besides his parents, Albert was preceded in death by his siblings, Delores Marciante, Eugene, Monroe, Willie and Martin Rodgers.

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat, Inc. Share memories or send condolences by visiting: www.crematepa.com.

To send flowers to Albert’s family, please visit our floral section.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV.

WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – On Thursday, February 27, 2020, Ashlei Marie Jenkins, age 36, passed into God’s care.

She was born in Warren, Ohio to William and Charlene (Martz) Jenkins. 

Arrangements by by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S. Silvat, Inc. Share memories or send condolences by visiting: www.cremateohio.com.

To send flowers to Ashlei’s family, please visit our floral section.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m., Friday, March 6, 2020, at F. D. Mason Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., for Mrs. Terri L. Davis, 68, Youngstown, who departed this life on Thursday, February 20, 2020 in St Elizabeth Health Care in Youngstown.

Mrs. Davis was born May 25, 1951, in East Liverpool, Ohio, a daughter of Robert E. Hall and Anna M. Duck.

She was a social worker for The Greater Youngstown Point and also went to school of nursing.

She leaves her children, Shawn and Jason Farley, Jessica (Daryl) Duck, Alecia (Willie) Davis and Amanda (Isaiah) Davis; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; her fiancé, Richard Stringfield and a host of other relatives and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Jamie Farley.

Friends may call from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 6 at the F. D. Mason Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. prior to services.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Mr. Antwan Matthew Daye, 41, transitioned to eternal rest Thursday, February 20, 2020.

Mr. Daye was born June 26, 1978, in Youngstown, Ohio, son of Tommy Lee Brown and Pearlene Daye. 

He attended South High School.

Antwan was a lyricist and positive rapper. He traveled extensively with several bands. He enjoyed traveling, fitness, nutrition and laughter. 

Antwan was a warm, compassionate, and lively person. He hated to see anybody sad and went out of his way to cheer him or her up. He often expressed deep concern for suffering in the world and black communities. He had a strong desire to improve himself and the world through messages of hope and understanding. Antwan was really into fashion and had a very distinguished style. 

He leaves to mourn his two children, Arin Levy of South Carolina and Ahyla Rose Daye of Ogden, Utah; one grandchild, Joshua Levy; eight siblings, Floyd Daye of Fresno California, Cornell Daye of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Shantel Daye of Ogden, Utah, Sekenah (Jesse) Daye Tennison of Saint Joseph, Michigan, Tamika Irby of Chesapeake, Virginia, Duwan Irby of Austin, Texas, Sherika Irby of Youngstown and Tiffany Irby of Elyria; parents, Tommy Lee Brown of Youngstown, Ohio and Pearlene Daye of Saint Joseph, Michigan; grandparents, Matthew and Mary F. Tidmore Brown and a hosts uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Fred and Ruby Daye.

Services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2020, at Temple Emmanuel Seventh Day Adventist Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Calling hours will be 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to services.

Arrangements are entrusted to F. D. Mason Funeral Home. 

A television tribute will air Wednesday, March 4, at the following approximate times: 5:17 a.m. on WKBN, 8:39 a.m. on FOX, 5:21 p.m. on WYTV and 6:35 p.m. on MyYTV.

NILES, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – William F. Craig, Sr., 76, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at Addison Health Care in Masury.  

He was born April 12, 1943 in Baltimore, Maryland, the son of Frank and Pearl (Learn) Craig. 

He was raised in Marion Center, Pennsylvania and moved to Ohio in 1968.

Bill served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force, retiring from the Vienna Air Base at the rank of Master Sergeant. He served on the USS Enterprise during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  

He worked as a truck driver, enjoyed hunting and spending time with family and attended Central Baptist Church in Niles.

He is sadly missed by four sons, William F. Craig, Jr. of Austintown, Paul Craig (Helen) of Leavittsburg, Michael Craig of Brookfield and Steve Craig of Niles and five grandchildren, Samantha Craig, Kristina Craig, Mark Craig, Marybeth Craig and Josh Craig.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his beloved wife, Mary Jane (Bellish) Craig, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage before her passing January 22, 2015 and a sister, Betty Ressler.

Services are 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2020 at Staton-Borowski Funeral Home. Friends may call 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to services.

Interment will follow at Howland Township Cemetery.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, 330-394-6200. Dedicated To Serving Your Loved Ones. Condolences may be sent to www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com.