Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home

Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home is a family owned funeral home with locations in Wilkes-Barre City and Edwardsville Borough.

We offer friendly and compassionate services to families in there time of need.

Michael F. PhillipsAugust 7, 2025     Michael F. Phillips, 76, of Wikes-Barre, passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, ...
08/12/2025

Michael F. Phillips
August 7, 2025

Michael F. Phillips, 76, of Wikes-Barre, passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at his home following a brief illness.

He was born in Hanover Township, a son of the late Michael and Gloria (Collins) Phillips. Michael was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Wilkes-Barre and he attended King’s College. He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

Prior to working at Pride Mobility, he owned Phillips Creative Art Glass.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Phillips.

Michael is survived by his brothers, Robert Phillips and his wife, Noreen, of Pittston and Paul Phillips and his wife, Marianne, of Hanover Township; and by his sons, Michael Phillips, of New Jersey and Ryan Phillips of Wilkes-Barre; grandchildren Kiersten, Abigal, Gracie, Brennen and Victoria; great grandchildren, Sophia, Elliot and Katalina; and by several nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10 am in St. Robert Bellarmine Parrish at St. Aloysius Church, Barney & Division Streets in Wilkes-Barre.

Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the Mass at the Church from 9-10 am. Those attending the Mass and visitation are asked to go directly to the Church on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michael’s memory to Reaching Beyond Limits, 844 Market Street, Kingston, PA 18704.

Condolences may be sent by visiting Michael’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, 89 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre.

Edward M. Shiner1945-2025Edward M. Shiner, 80, of Brooklyn, New York, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on Jul...
07/21/2025

Edward M. Shiner
1945-2025

Edward M. Shiner, 80, of Brooklyn, New York, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on July 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, which he fondly called his “Lebanese village in Pennsylvania,” Ed was the son of Howard and Catherine (Shemas) Shiner.
Ed was preceded in death by his sister Charmaine, brother Howard, and sister LaVonne Elias.
He is survived by six adoring nieces and nephews: Howard J. Shiner III (Kimberly), James Elias, Catherine Shiner, Candice Shiner-Tohme (Zakaria), William Elias (Heather), and Annie Elias West (Robert). Ed was also cherished by numerous great and great-great-nieces and nephews and countless friends whom he considered family. He was “Uncle Ed” to so many!

A 1963 graduate of G.A.R. High School in Wilkes-Barre, Ed pursued his passion for music, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Piano Performance from Wilkes University (1967), followed by a Master’s in Music, History and Literature from Temple University (1970.) After a few years of teaching public school, giving private piano lessons, and being a ballet pianist, he entered the small family business full-time, Howard Shiner Candies, established by his brother and sister-in-law, Theresa. Following the sudden death of his brother in 1974, he continued the business for another nine years.

Ed’s professional journey was marked by his religious ardor, dedication and impact. In 1983, Ed moved to Brooklyn, New York, and accepted a newly created position as Executive Director of the National Apostolate of Maronites (NAM). He opened its national office in Brooklyn and over two decades, transformed NAM into a thriving organization with structured staff, scholarship programs, youth and adult ministries. His leadership strengthened ties of faith, heritage and service, leaving a lasting legacy. Ed’s counsel, laughter, and unwavering faith made him a trusted advisor and dear friend to many.

In 2006, Ed joined the Lebanese American University (LAU) as Director of Alumni Relations and Special Projects. His tireless efforts grew LAU’s North American alumni network into a vibrant community with fifteen active chapters. Ed organized countless galas, board meetings and special events, playing a pivotal role in establishing LAU’s New York presence. In honor of his upcoming retirement and his dedication to giving back, the “Edward M. Shiner Endowment Scholarship Fund” was created in Ed’s honor.

Ed loved “The Big Apple” and immersed himself in the city’s vibrant arts, theater, and cultural scene for 42 years. He was an expert tour guide for family, friends, and strangers alike, always eager to showcase New York City and its hidden gems. If you ever had the privilege of experiencing one of his private tours, you would know that no one ever found the perfect parking spot quite like Ed!

He was a volunteer for Recording for the Blind from 1987 until 2006. He was a member of the West Village Chorale since 1991. His 34-year dedication to the WVC has clearly left an indelible mark on the organization and its community. Growing the chorale from a small group to a robust ensemble of 70 singers, tackling a diverse and challenging repertoire, speaks to his vision and leadership. His versatility in roles like President and Treasurer, combined with his knack for problem-solving (“Ed had a guy”), highlights his resourcefulness and commitment.

A lifelong traveler, Ed’s adventures began as a chaperone and tour guide for young students, sparking a passion for exploration that took him across the globe. His frequent travels to Lebanon, particularly his beloved ancestral village of Hardine, reflected his deep pride in his Lebanese heritage.

Above all, his faith, family and heritage remained at the heart of Ed’s life. His immediate and extended family were an integral part of who he was; he took great pride in maintaining family connections. He worked extensively on a detailed family tree to preserve family history and helped to organize all family reunions.

Ed always quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson and aspired to live by these words:
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate and
to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”

Ed’s legacy, that of a honorable gentleman, a mentor and a legend in his own right, will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched and the communities he served with faith, humility, and love.

A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Friday, August 8, 2025 at St. Anthony and St. George Maronite Church. 311 Park Ave. Wilkes-Barre, PA. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9 AM until 10:45 AM at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lebanese American University or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Ed’s honor.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.
Online condolences can be made by visiting Ed’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com

07/16/2025

Edward M. Shiner
1945-2025

Edward M. Shiner, 80, of Brooklyn, New York and formerly Wilkes-Barre, PA entered his eternal resting place in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am Friday, August 8, 2025, from the St. Anthony and St. George Maronite Church, 311 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre, PA. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the church.

A full obituary to follow in the coming days.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Elizabeth Roper1958 – 2025Elizabeth “Libby” Roper, 67, of Plymouth and formerly Edwardsville entered into eternal rest o...
07/16/2025

Elizabeth Roper
1958 – 2025

Elizabeth “Libby” Roper, 67, of Plymouth and formerly Edwardsville entered into eternal rest on Sunday July 13, 2025, at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. She was born in Kingston the daughter of the late Robert G. and Charlotte Stull Murray. Libby graduated from West Side Technical School, class of 1976. She was a lifelong member of Dr. Edwards Memorial Congregational Church, Edwardsville.
A natural caregiver, Libby worked in various care giving roles including local day care centers and personal care homes, but her priority remained to be present for her children and later grandchildren, extended family and friends in whatever capacity she could be of service. Her warm smile and welcoming heart left everyone she met feeling seen, accepted and loved from their first meeting. She was affectionately known as “Mama Roper” to dozens of her children’s friends throughout the years and will be remembered always as a kind and loving presence in their lives. Libby was also a gifted writer whose heartfelt cards, letters, stories and poems will be among the pieces of herself that remain for her family and friends to cherish.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 27 years, Jonas W Roper, and sisters, Susan Swire and Carol Kennedy.
Survived by her children, Tara Roper (Marcus), Jonas R. Roper (Jessica), Eric Roper (Crystal), Sarah Roper (Benjamin) grandchildren, Elijah, Eric Jr., Angelina, Teyonna, Adryanna, Rylee, Lewis, Courtney, Evangelina, Alex, Princeton, James, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, Bella, who brought her many years of comfort and joy and has been entrusted to the care of her granddaughter, Teyonna.
Funeral Service will be held at Noon on July 26, 2025, from the Dr. Edwards Memorial Congregational Church, 668 Main Street Edwardsville with the pastor, Shawn Walker officiating.
A visitation for family and friends from 10:00 am until the time of service, at the church.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Edwardsville.
The Roper Family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the medical team, staff, and Libby’s fellow patients at Fresnius Kidney Care in Wilkes Barre whose care, compassion, and unwavering support were paramount to the success of her treatment for over a decade. Also, a heartfelt thank you is due to the nursing staff of Commonwealth General Hospital for their compassionate care during her most recent hospital stay.

Edward L. Updyke1931-2025Edward L. Updyke, 94, of Courtdale passed away peacefully at home. He was born in Courtdale the...
07/09/2025

Edward L. Updyke
1931-2025

Edward L. Updyke, 94, of Courtdale passed away peacefully at home. He was born in Courtdale the son of the late Edward L. and Emily L. Lamborn Updyke. Edward was educated in the Courtdale public school system. He graduated from Kingston Twp. High School, class of 1949 and attended Penn State Technical Institute. Edward joined the Air Force serving during the Korean War. Prior to retirement he was employed by M.T. Transportation, Wilkes-Barre, Keller Wheelchair Lifts, Luzerne, and Courtdale Borough. Edward was a member of the Courtdale United Methodist Church and the Courtdale Fire Department.
He was preceded in death by his second wife, Ann Shramko Updyke, son, Edward L. Updyke II, grandchildren, Stephen M Greaney II and Dawn Browski.
Survived by daughters, Kym Baran and Desiree Parduski, companion and caregiver, Cheryl Cavalari, 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Noon on July 19, 2025, from Courtdale United Methodist Church, 225 Courtdale Ave. Courtdale.
A visitation for relatives and friends will be held from 10:00 am until time of service at the church.
Online condolences can be made by visiting Edward’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Edwardsville.

Leona M. KonopkaJuly 6, 2025Leona M. Konopka, 100, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 6...
07/09/2025

Leona M. Konopka
July 6, 2025

Leona M. Konopka, 100, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Elizabeth (Basler) Heck. Leona graduated from St. Boniface Parochial School and attended G.A.R. Memorial High School. She was a devoted member of St. Andrew Parish, Wilkes-Barre. Prior to its closure, she had been a lifelong member of St. Boniface Church, where she was active in the Ladies Sodality.
Leona cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. She had a gift for making those around her feel loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Chester F. Konopka; her son, Chester Konopka; and her brothers, Harry, Donald, Gerald, and Robert Heck.
Leona is survived by her children: Christine Konopka of Wilkes-Barre; Caryn Butler and her partner, Mark Zdanoski, of Scranton; and Kenneth Konopka and his wife, Bonnie, of Salida, Colorado. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Ryan Butler, Eric Butler and his wife, Dr. Meredith Sorensen, Bridget Butler and her spouse, Joe Brazil Jr., and Joshua Hale Konopka; and great-grandchildren: Rhys, Annalise, Cooper, and Eira Butler, and Leona Grace Brazil. In addition, she is survived by her sisters, Phyllis Heck and Lucille Schneikart; her brother, Edward Heck; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Leona enjoyed crocheting afghans for family and friends, and she loved working on puzzle books and jigsaw puzzles. She also generously gave her time as a volunteer for 10 years at the Saint Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Patrick Kerrigan and his staff, and to Erwine Home Health for their compassionate care.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. from the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, 89 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Andrew Parish, 316 Parrish Street, Wilkes-Barre. Rev. Paul McDonnell, Pastor of Divine Mercy Parish in Scranton, will officiate. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.
Family and friends may call on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Condolences may be shared by visiting Leona’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com.

Stanley S. FiedorczykJuly 6, 2025Stanley Steven Fiedorczyk, 89, of Wilkes-Barre passed away Sunday July 6, 2025, at Rive...
07/08/2025

Stanley S. Fiedorczyk
July 6, 2025

Stanley Steven Fiedorczyk, 89, of Wilkes-Barre passed away Sunday July 6, 2025, at Riverstreet Manor, Wilkes-Barre. He was born in Wilkes-Barre, the son of the late Stanley and Leona (Jamiolkowski) Fiedorczyk. Stanley was a 1954 graduate of Coughlin High School. He served in U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division, from October 1954 to September 1956. Prior to retirement, Stanley worked for Foster Wheeler Manufacturing in Mountain Top, Pa. for 32 years. During that time, he also served as U.E. Local 155’s Union President. Following the facilities closing, he worked for the Luzerne County Correctional Facility for 20 years in the Maintenance Department. Upon retirement, he volunteered as a van driver for the V.A. Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Stanley loved traveling south for the winter with his wife Stella, mainly to Myrtle Beach where he enjoyed vacationing with the rest of his family. “I’ll be down on the beach with the kids, don’t forget we’re going to Crabby Mike’s for supper.” Besides his love for going south and his family, he loved going “up the cabin,” where he would spend every moment he could relaxing with family and friends. He often said everyone was family there. At the cabin, he was known as one of the original Funnel Brothers, a grand title he shared with his lifelong friend Jay Ruhf. He would always greet you with a drink and give you the standard warning, “watch the cop in Meshoppen” when you were leaving.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Stella “Tootsie” (Piekanski) Fiedorczyk, his brother, John Fiedorczyk and by his brother-in-law Thomas Rudick.
Stanley is survived by his sons, Steven Edward Fiedorczyk and his wife, Mary Margaret (Feher) Fiedorczyk, Drums Pa. and Stanley (Bub) Joseph Fiedorczyk and his wife, Jill Francis (Maziekas) Fiedorczyk, Wilkes-Barre, Pa; grandchildren, Steven Fiedorczyk and fiancé Alison Schug, Brandon Fiedorczyk, Marcus Fiedorczyk, Sophia Fiedorczyk, Joshua Kaplowitz and Zackery Kaplowitz, He is also survived by his sister Marion (Fiedorczyk) Rudick Sellersville, Pa., brother-in-law Joseph Piekanski St. Lucie, Fl. sister-in law Paulette (Piekanski) Psolka Shavertown, Pa. as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am Friday July 11, 2025, from Our Lady of Hope Parish, 40 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday July 10, 2025, from Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, 89 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre.

Online condolences can be made by visiting Stanley’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com
In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorial donations to be made in Stanley’s name to American Kindey Fund 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300 Rockville, MD 20852 or go to https://give.kidneyfund.org

The family would especially like to thank the entire staff at the V.A. Medical Center Hemodialysis Department for their years of endless care and compassion, A Touch of Kindness Transportation Company, that made sure, even at a moment’s notice, he made it to everything, and all of the staff that took care of him like he was a family member at Riverstreet Manor. The family would also like to thank Serenity Hospice for the final care, and the many nurses, physical therapists, and aides that took care of him when he was home. And finally, everyone at Nat, Gawlas, Jordan Funeral Home for their incredible service for our Mother and Father.

Robert Edward DelescavageJune 24, 2025     Robert Edward Delescavage, 83, of Wilkes-Barre Township, passed away on Tuesd...
06/25/2025

Robert Edward Delescavage
June 24, 2025

Robert Edward Delescavage, 83, of Wilkes-Barre Township, passed away on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with his loving family by his side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre Township, he was a son of the late Edward and Sophie Witek Delescavage. Bob was a graduate of Wilkes-Barre Township High School, class of 1959 and he attended King’s College and served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves.

Bob was formerly employed at Foster Wheeler in Mountain Top, prior to its closing. He later worked at SCI Dallas and he retired from the Luzerne County Transportation Authority, where he served as the supervisor of the bus division.

He formerly served on the Wilkes-Barre Township Council and as Mayor for 2 terms. Bob was a member of the Wilkes-Barre Township American Legion Post 815, where he served on the Board of Directors. He was the coordinator of the annual Christmas Party and Easter Egg Hunt for children with the Georgetown Friars Club for many years.

Bob enjoyed golfing and playing cards. He was an avid Penn State and Cleveland Brown football fan and Cleveland Indians fan. He was proud of his grandsons and loved to attend their music events and football, soccer and volleyball games.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Gerald and Edward and his wife, Elaine.

Bob leaves behind his loving wife of 62 years, Maryann Turinski Delescavage and his sons, Bob Delescavage and his wife, Sue and Gary Delescavage along with his grandsons, Douglas, Bob, Nicky and Dylan; sister-in-law, Cindy Delescavage. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews and numerous dear friends.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 at 10 am from the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, 89 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre. Rev. John S. Terry will officiate. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025 from 2-5 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Georgetown Friars Club.

Martin J. Regan1948 – 2025Martin J. Regan, 76, was born July 31, 1948, to the son of the late William and Margaret Regan...
06/21/2025

Martin J. Regan
1948 – 2025

Martin J. Regan, 76, was born July 31, 1948, to the son of the late William and Margaret Regan. He passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by brothers William, Patrick, Joseph, Donald, Thomas, and Charles, sister, Margaret and grandson, Brayden Vassello
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betsy Wallace Regan, daughter, Casey and her husband Ryan, the love of his life granddaughter, Sophia, brother, Jerome and his wife Cathy, sisters, Pat Donnelly and her husband James, Marian and her husband Carlos Smith Jr., sister in laws, Jean and Kathleen Regan and several nieces and nephews.
Martin was a graduate of St. Nicholas High School, class of 1967. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. Martin was previously employed as property manager of Hilltop Apartments for 35 years, David Blight School of Dance, Wyoming Valley Motors, and was currently employed by Wyoming Valley West School District. Marty enjoyed being called the Godfather of this family. He was a life member of Franklin Hose Company, Edwardsville.

He enjoyed spending time with his family attending his granddaughter’s soccer games and school activities, but his greatest accomplishment in life was his daughter Casey. Martin was so loved and will be missed by many. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and loved going to the casino.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday June 25,2025 from Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home 89 Park Ave. Wilkes-Barre with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 a.m. from St. Nicholas St. Mary Parish 226 S. Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be in St. Nicohlas Cemetery, Shavertown.
A visitation for family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday June 24, 2025, at the funeral home.
En lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to WVW girls’ soccer booster club, Attn: Nick Gill, 150 Wadham Street Plymouth, PA 18651
Online condolences can be made by visiting Martin’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com

Dustin M. Eyerman1994 – 2025Dustin M. Eyerman, 30, of Dupont passed away unexpectedly Wednesday June 18, 2025, at Geisin...
06/21/2025

Dustin M. Eyerman
1994 – 2025

Dustin M. Eyerman, 30, of Dupont passed away unexpectedly Wednesday June 18, 2025, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains Twp. He was born in Wilkes-Barre. He graduated from Marlboro High School, Marlboro, NY class of 2014. He worked for Jr. & Sr. Landscaping and Exeter Borough Fire Department. He was a past member of Marlboro Hose Co. # 1, an active member of West Pittston Hose Co. # 1, Exeter Hose Co. # 1, Harding Fire Company, Germania Scuba Team, Avoca Hose Co. # 1, Plymouth Fire Department, and UBMC.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Wayne and Beverly Swartz Sr., Norma Grigas, Marion and George Cheatly, Francis Eyerman Sr., Roberta Jones and niece, Baby E.

Survived by daughter, Brynnlee Eyerman, parents, Diane and Joseph Grigas, father, Francis Eyerman Jr., sisters, Ariel Swartz, Faith Eyerman, brothers, Jonathan Eyerman, Francis Eyerman, Gabriel Rowe-Beiz, grandfather, Joseph Grigas, nieces and nephews, Gabrielle, Stephen, Emily, Hudson, and many cousins.
Funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Monday, June 23, 2025, from Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, 89 Park Ave. Wilkes-Barre.
A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.
A celebration of Life will be held from 4 pm to 9 pm Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at his parent’s house 101 Center Street, Hughestown.
En lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in Dustin’s memory to West Pittston Hose Co. # 1, P.O. Box 3130 West Pittston, PA 18643.

Online condolences can be made by visiting Dustin’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com

Sylvia Moore Russo1933-2025Sylvia Moore Russo, 91, of Laurel Run Borough, Pa., went to be with our Lord in the loving ar...
06/18/2025

Sylvia Moore Russo
1933-2025

Sylvia Moore Russo, 91, of Laurel Run Borough, Pa., went to be with our Lord in the loving arms of her daughter on Friday June 13, 2025.
She was born in Laurel Run Borough, the daughter of the late Charles and Jennie Moore.
Sylvia graduated from James M. Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
She was one of the last remaining residents of the original town of Laurel Run which was situated on Giants Despair but no longer exists due to coal mine fires. She loved to recount many stories of this wonderful little town where she grew up and she made you feel like you were actually there through her expert story telling.
After marrying her beloved husband, Marty Russo, she resided on Washington Street in Wilkes Barre, Pa. Later in life she returned to Laurel Run Borough.
Sylvia was accepted to Beth Isreal Nursing School after graduating high school. But she selflessly gave up her dream of becoming a nurse to care for her mother who was stricken ill. Even though she set aside the dream of a career in nursing; she spent her entire life caring for family members who were elderly or infirmed. She continued throughout her life to have a passion for learning about medicine and health care.
She was a lifelong member of the Laurel Run Primitive Methodist Church where she served as Communion Stewart for many years.
Sylvia was employed as a banquet waitress at the Carriage Stop Inn. During which time she returned to school and obtained a Phlebotomy degree where she was named Valedictorian of her class.
She loved to entertain. Nothing made her happier than having a house full of friends and relatives. She was always planning the next party.
Sylvia loved dogs and had many over her lifetime. She was always fond of her first dog and told stories about her beloved Brownie on many occasions. She was an avid reader and could always be found immersed in a good book. She loved to be outside gardening and working on projects around her homes. She always had time for fun adventures and loved going out for dinner. She had a great sense of humor and always had a great one liner to make people laugh. Above all, she was a loving and very dedicated wife and mother.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marty Russo. Sylvia is survived by her son; Scott (Betty) Russo, Pittston, Pa., Daughter; Cynthia Russo, Laurel Run, Pa., Dog; Cooper, Laurel Run, Pa. Nieces and Nephews; Sharon (Michael) Phillips, Hamlin, Pa., Daryl Metric, Ashley, Pa., Sheldon Hannis, Ashley, Pa., David Rosenko, Wyoming, Pa., Jack (Connie) Myers, NJ., Richard Ermish, White Haven, Pa. Great nieces and nephews: with special mention to Jamie Metric. And special mention to her lifelong friend Sylvia Shaffer.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Friday June 20, 2025, from the Laurel Run Primitive Methodist Church 3835 Laurel Run Road, Laurel Run, PA with Pastor William Birch officiating. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 am until time of service at the church.
Interment will be in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Carverton.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.
Online condolences can be made by visiting Sylvia’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Sylvia’s name to Laurel Run Primitive Methodist Church, 3835 Laurel Run Rd. Laurel Run, Pa. 18706.

Rose Lynn DePietropaolo1949- 2025Rose Lynn Ritz DePietropaolo, of Pittston Township, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2...
06/18/2025

Rose Lynn DePietropaolo

1949- 2025
Rose Lynn Ritz DePietropaolo, of Pittston Township, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at General Hospital following a brief illness.
Born on September 3, 1949, Rose Lynn was the daughter of the late Michael and Elizabeth (Constantino) Ritz.
A 1967 graduate of Pittston Area High School, Rose Lynn went on to work as a waitress at the Woodlands Inn and later in the Environmental Services Department at Geisinger Wyoming Valley’s Emergency Room. She was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, she poured love into every dish she prepared. Her sons, grandchildren, and friends all knew that if they walked through her door, there would be a plate waiting — and she wouldn’t let them leave without eating something.
Working in her yard was one of her greatest joys — a space where she found both peace and purpose, nurturing life with the same care she gave to her family.
Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing her spirit lives on in the values she instilled and the lives she touched. She will be missed more than words can express.
Rose Lynn is survived by her two sons, Jason of Pocono Pines, and Michael of Corpus Christi, Texas; and her beloved grandchildren, Gianna and Luca DePietropaolo of Jenkins Township, and Mia and Dominick DePietropaolo of Corpus Christi, Texas. She is also survived by her best friend and sister, Barbara Ritz Foster, with whom she resided and was rarely seen without. Their bond was one of deep love, laughter, and unwavering support — a true example of lifelong companionship.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 9:30 AM at St. Joseph Marello Parish, 237 William Street, Pittston.
Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.
Friends may call at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you plant something beautiful in your yard in her honor — just as she would have done.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of the General Hospital Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Rose Lynn’s final days.
Arrangements are by the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre.

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