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Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. Obituaries

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. Obituaries

About Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc.

Located at 529 North Chestnut St., Derry, PA, 15627, Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. The funeral home is dedicated to helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A History of Excellence

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. has a long history of serving the Derry community. The funeral home was founded on the principles of compassion, integrity, and excellence, and these values continue to guide the staff today. Over the years, the funeral home has built a reputation for providing exceptional service, attention to detail, and a commitment to helping families navigate the difficult process of saying goodbye to a loved one.

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc.

Address: 529 North Chestnut St., Derry, PA, 15627
Phone Number: 1-724-694-8331
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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

James F. Hill - August 12, 1944 - April 05, 2022

Departed: 04/05/2022 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: James F. Hill, 77 of Millwood, died on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at his home. He was born August 12, 1944 in Bradenville, the son of the late James S. and Dorothy (Starry) Hill. Prior to retirement James worked at Latrobe Steel. He was a US Army Veteran having served during the Vietnam War. James loved fishing, Derry Trojan Football, all Penn State Sports, golfing with his brother, and watching his grandsons play football. Besides his parents, James is preceded in death by his wife Dianne S. (Skander) Hill in 2015, one daughter Leyna R. Shaffer, one sister Sandy Rowan, and two brothers Denny and Ronnie Hill. James is survived by one daughter Jamie L. Styfco and husband Scott of Berkeley Springs, WV; two brothers Thomas and Gary Hill both of Latrobe; three sisters Becky Hill of Latrobe, Cheryl Miller and husband Russ of IN, and Robin Pence and husband Duane of AZ; two grandchildren Casey and Cody Shaffer; one son-in-law Douglas Shaffer of Calumet and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Family will receive friends for James’s Life Celebration 4:30-6:30PM Friday April 8, 2022 at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331 The Latrobe-Derry Honor Guard will conduct Military Honors in the funeral home at 6:15PM in the funeral home Funeral service will follow at 6:30 PM in the funeral home with Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as officiant. Inurnment will be at later date in the St. Joseph Cemetery, Derry.
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Marion P. "Patty" Broadway - November 10, 1929 - March 15, 2022

Departed: 03/15/2022 (Derry)
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Catherine M. Hartshorn - August 15, 1943 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Derry)
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James A. Kuncher - September 21, 1956 - February 12, 2022

Departed: 02/12/2022 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: James A. Kuncher, 65, of Black Lick, died Saturday, February 12, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born September 21, 1956, in Latrobe, a son of late Herbert and Winona (Fisher) Kuncher. Prior to retirement James worked at Ames Transportation as a truck driver. He was a US Army Veteran. James enjoyed fishing and the outdoors. He is preceded in death by one infant son James Kuncher; one son Cody J. Kuncher; and one brother Thomas Kuncher. James is survived by his wife of 35 years, Susan L. (Rager) Kuncher of Blairsville; one daughter Brandi S. Kuncher of Blairsville; four grandchildren Lucian J., Cody R.J., Alexander C.T., and Georgia E. L. Duncan; and also several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. There will be no visitation or services. The family has entrusted the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331 with the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be made at www.merlinfuneralhome.com.
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Clifford W. Gunter - April 17, 1955 - February 11, 2022

Departed: 02/11/2022 (Derry)
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Calvin W. Sachs - September 14, 1942 - February 08, 2022

Departed: 02/08/2022 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Calvin W. Sachs, 79, of Seger, Derry, Twp., died February 8, 2022, at Excela Health Latrobe Hospital due to complications of COVID 19. He was born September 14, 1942, in Forbes Road, PA, the son of the late Harry and Armilda (Hafer) Sachs. Always a fixer of things, he owned Cal’s Repair Shop in Derry for 32 years prior to retiring. In addition to his family, he loved fishing, hunting, woodworking, and classic cars including his cherished 1971 Super Bee. In addition to his parents, Cal was preceded in death by his infant grandchildren Tristan and Celeste Lott. Cal is survived by his wife of 57 years Donna M. (Keffer) Sachs of Seger; three children Dawna M. Campbell and husband Lyle of Derry; Amanda M. Lott of West Chester, PA, and Calvin C. Sachs of Cisne, IL; two brothers, Harry and Leroy; and one sister, Henrietta. Cal’s grandchildren affectionately called him Pop Pop. Austin Woods, Olivia Woods and her partner Korey Reed, and Madeline Lott will miss him and his beautiful creations. Cal was thrilled to meet his great-grandson Karter Reed in 2020. Several nieces and nephews enjoyed a close relationship with “Uncle Cal.” He will be missed by his neighbors and many human friends, and one devoted chocolate lab, Diesel. Friends may call on the family on Thursday, February 10, at Gianelli’s II in Greensburg, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements with the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331.
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Robin L. Pennesi - October 22, 1953 - January 28, 2022

Departed: 01/28/2022 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Robin (Marshall) Pennesi, 68, of New Derry, died January 28, 2022 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh. She was born on October 22, 1953 in Indiana, PA, a daughter of the late William H. and Martha L. (Diven) Marshall. Prior to retirement Robin worked at the Westmoreland County Water Authority and the Derry Area High School cafeteria where she was well loved by all. She was a member of the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church in New Derry. Robin enjoyed vacationing with her sister Betsy, her girls and her yearly trips to Rehoboth Beach with the family. She loved her family, cooking, Sunday dinners, celebrating holidays and birthdays, playing cards, her swimming pool, gardening, cheering on her grandchildren, but most of all spending time with her husband at their camp “The Robins Nest”. Besides her parents, Robin was preceded in death by her brother William H. Marshall. Robin is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Louis J. Pennesi of New Derry, three children Kristen Gulibon and husband Jim of Latrobe, Nadine Myers of New Derry, and Louie J. Pennesi and Emily Fossi of New Derry; Fur Baby Cooper, two sisters Betsy A. Marshall of Clarksville, TN and Mary C. Chiesa of Tucson, AZ ; four grandchildren Jimmy Gulibon, Alexis Gulibon, Levi Myers, and Taylor Myers; one brother-in-law John Pennesi and wife Cheryl; one sister-in-law Lorraine Cerilli and husband Greg; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Visitation for the family will be private. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Saturday, February 5, 2022 in the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church, New Derry, with the Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as celebrant.
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Sarah C. Johnston - March 20, 1932 - January 12, 2022

Departed: 01/12/2022 (Derry)
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Beverly A. Haake - August 21, 1948 - January 02, 2022

Departed: 01/02/2022 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Beverly A. (Reffo) Haake, 73, of Derry, passed away Sunday, January 2, 2022 at Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg. Born August 21, 1948 in Latrobe, a daughter of the late Felix M. Reffo and Rita L. (Loughner) Reffo. Beverly was a member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Latrobe where she was an active servant of God. She served her church by participating in the church choir, a member of handbells, and supporting various programs including Meals On Wheels and Sunday School. She had devoted her life to her family as a homemaker and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Beverly also enjoyed bowling, puzzles, and computer games. In addition to her parents, Beverly is preceded in death by her son, Alvin S. Haake Jr. and a sister, Karen Bryant. Beverly is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Alvin S. Haake of Derry; two sons, Scott Haake and Becky Rizzo, of Loyalhanna, Shawn Haake and wife Kelly of Derry, and a daughter, Melinda Terney and Paul Brosnick of Latrobe; two brothers Felix “Mick” Reffo Jr. of Donegal and Keith Reffo (Michelle) of Derry; two sisters, Janet Bollinger (Charles) of Latrobe and Sandra Thomas of Pittsburgh; 10 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Family and friends will be received 2-4 and 6-8pm on Thursday January 6. 2022 at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331.
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Angela B. Campbell - January 25, 1974 - December 24, 2021

Departed: 12/24/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Angela B. Campbell, 47, of Blairsville, died Friday, December 24, 2021 at Cornerview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Pittsburgh. She was born January 25, 1974, in Latrobe, a daughter of the late Robert W. and Helen L. (Boring) Campbell. Besides her parents she is preceded in death by her sister Faith N. Campbell. Angela is survived by her sister Stacey L. Campbell of Blairsville; Uncle Larry Sauers of Blairsville; and also many cousins and friends. Viewing and services for Angela will be private. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements with the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 15627 724-694-8331. Interment will be private.
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Ann Pennesi - May 17, 1928 - December 13, 2021

Departed: 12/13/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Ann (Malarick) Pennesi, 93, of New Derry, died December 13, 2021 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. She was born on May 17, 1928 in New Derry a daughter of the late Stephen and Mary (Conner) Malarick. Prior to retirement Ann worked at Pennsylvania Container. She was a member of the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church and the St. Martin Rosary Altar Society. Ann loved going to casinos with her husband before he passed away, working outside on her flower gardens and landscape, and loved her family. Besides her parents Ann was preceded in death by her husband Eugene B. “Geno” Pennesi in 2005 and one sister Elizabeth J. “Betty” Nolan. Ann is survived by her two children Deborah Riley and husband Charles of New Derry and Richard Pennesi and wife Michele of Latrobe; one sister Gerri Esposito and husband Eugene of Blairsville; one brother-in-law Donald Slezak of Latrobe; one sister-in-law Rose DeCario of New Derry; four grandchildren Keegan and Rick Watson, Shannon and Zack Mazzoni, Jenna and Nick Keefer, and Nathan and Danielle Pennesi; seven great-grandchildren Riley, Jake, Sophia, Lola, Ella, Mila, and Lena; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. The St. Martin Rosary Alter Society will recite the Rosary 1:30 PM Thursday December 16, 2021 in the funeral home. Family will receive friends for Ann’s Life celebration 2-8PM Thursday December 16, 2021 in the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, 724-694-8331. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Friday December 17, 2021 in the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church, New Derry, with the Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as celebrant. Interment will follow in the St. Martin Cemetery, New Derry.
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James Harold Daugherty - November 29, 1949 - November 27, 2021

Departed: 11/27/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: James Harold Daugherty Jr., 71, of Export, died November 27, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born November 29, 1949 in New Kensington, the son of the late James H. Sr. and Mary Anna (Pritts) Daugherty. Prior to retirement James worked for the Municipality of Murrysville for 35 years as a truck driver. He was a member of the Italian American Club of Export and the Construction General Laborers and Material Handler Local 1058 of Pittsburgh. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother Richard “Dick” Daugherty and son-in-law Marc Holnaider. James is survived by his wife Cynthia L. “Cindy” (Visnick) Daugherty of Export; seven children James H. Daugherty III and wife Helen of Derry, Christian W. Daugherty of New Alexandria, Tracy N. Slezak and husband Aaron of New Alexandria, Casey L. Holnaider of Derry, Mary L. Aikins and husband Barry of Blairsville, Jesse R. Hempel and wife April of East Butler, and Jason R. Hempel of Manor; one brother David D. Daugherty of Wilmerding; father-in-law Robert Visnick of Export; aunt Rosetta Biondich of Apollo; 16 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Per James wishes there will be no visitation. There will be a private graveside service for the family in the Twin Valley Memorial Park, Delmont, PA. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements with the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Export VFD, 5815 Washington Ave., Export, PA 15632 or SPARRO, 142 Stark Drive, Plum, PA 15239. The family would like to give a special thanks to the friends and family who helped with Jim during this difficult time, especially his nurse Miranda, Vitas Heath Care, and McKnight Medical for their services.
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Rhonda Lyn Derry - January 28, 1964 - November 25, 2021

Departed: 11/25/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Rhonda Lyn (Fabian) Derry, 57, of Derry, died on Thursday, November 25, 2021, at Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital. She was born January 28, 1964 in Latrobe, PA, the daughter of Peter E. Fabian of Derry and the late Donna M. (Lepley) Fabian. Rhonda had worked for St. Vincent College in the Laundry Department. She enjoyed working on cars, quad riding, going to Smicksburg, and spending time with her dog Rocky at her camp that she help build with her husband. Besides her mother Rhonda is preceded in death by her sister-in-law Renee Derry. Besides her father, Rhonda is survived by her loving husband of four years, Elmer J. “Ricky” Derry of Derry; two sons Alec Murtha of Latrobe and Patrick Murtha of Greensburg; one daughter Jessica Murtha of Derry Twp.; three sister-in-laws, Carol Androstic of Greensburg, Anita Belik and husband Rick of New Alexandria, and Edie Lape and husband Donald of Derry; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation and services for Rhonda will be private for the family. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements to the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA (724)694-8331.
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Roberta Jo Rager - June 17, 1974 - November 16, 2021

Departed: 11/16/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Roberta Jo “Bobbi Jo” Rager, 47, of Blairsville, died on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at her home. She was born June 17, 1974 in Latrobe, PA, the daughter of Robert L. Rager of Blairsville and the late Sandra L. (Cramer) Rager. Bobbi Jo was a 1993 graduate of Derry Area High School. She had worked at Reese Brothers in Indiana as a telemarketer. Bobbi Jo enjoyed music and cats. Besides her father, Bobbi Jo is survived by her two sons Christopher and Samuel Palmer of Blairsville; one sister Kellie Taylor of Blairsville; one nephew Andrew Taylor; and several cousins and friends. Bobbi Jo’s memorial service will be held at a later date. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements to the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA (724)694-8331.
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Linda P. Willnecker - May 14, 1956 - November 12, 2021

Departed: 11/12/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Linda P. Willnecker, 65, of Altoona, died on Friday, November 12, 2021, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. She was born May 14, 1956 in Altoona, the daughter late Raymond H. and Helen G. (Troutman) Willnecker. Linda was a 1974 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School and a 1977 graduate of the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. Linda was a Nurse at Altoona Hospital, where she worked in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit and the Surgical Center. Linda was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She is survived by her sister, Susan H. McFee, nephew, Brian (Molly) McFee, niece, Kristen Hamilton, and the following great-nieces and nephews; Taylor (Joshua) Fullen, Isabella McFee, Courtney Hamilton, Christian Hamilton, Xavier Hamilton, Kilian Hamilton, Maksym Hamilton, Lucas McFee, Dominic McFee, Sam McFee, Nathan McFee and great-great niece, Aubrey Fullen. A funeral Mass will held 10AM December 11, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Altoona. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements to the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA (724)694-8331. Inurnment will be at the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Altoona.
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Rev. Fr. Thomas James Smith - August 27, 1953 - October 21, 2021

Departed: 10/21/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview:
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Jessica Lynn Cole - July 19, 1981 - September 25, 2021

Departed: 09/25/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Jessica Lynn Cole, 40, of Cheswick, died on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at her home. She was born July 19, 1981 in Latrobe, PA, the daughter of Rose Ann (Vernino) Patrick and husband Marty of Greensburg and the late Joseph Downs. Jessica was a self-employed sales person. She enjoyed art, animals, and the outdoors. Besides her mother and step father, Jessica is survived by her two daughters Nadia Cole and fiancée Zachary Nicholson of Bradenville and Ariana Downs of Youngwood; one brother Kenneth Stape of Greensburg; one sister Melissa Stape of Greensburg; and several cousins and friends. At the family’s request the services will be private. The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements to the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA (724)694-8331.
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Paul J. Demangone - June 09, 1951 - September 23, 2021

Departed: 09/23/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Paul J. Demangone, 70, of New Derry, died Thursday, September 23, 2021, at his home. He was born June 9, 1951, in Latrobe, a son of the late Charles P. Sr. and Catherine M. (Sledge) Demangone. Prior to retirement Paul worked for Blairsville Machine and his family store. He was a member of the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church, New Derry. Paul enjoyed carpentry, cars, gardening, and landscaping. Paul is survived by his son Todd K. Demangone and wife Lori of Avalon; one step son Patrick J. Richards and wife Kathy of North Huntingdon; eight siblings Frances Kutzer and husband Mike of Latrobe, Mary Maher and husband Christopher of Latrobe, Charles Demangone Jr. of New Derry, Lawrence Demangone of New Derry, Robert Demangone and wife Nancy of Derry, Dominic Demangone and wife Michelle of Latrobe, Martin Demangone and wife Dawn of Pine Ridge, FL, and Richard Demangone of New Derry; one grandson Anthony Demangone; two aunts Helen Myers of Rockwood, MI and Ferne Demangone of Scottdale; former spouse Lois Perillo of Avalon; and also several nieces, nephews, and friends. The family will receive friends for Paul’s Life Celebration, on Monday September 27, 2021 from 4-8PM at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00AM Tuesday September 28, 2021 at the St. Martin Roman Catholic Church, New Derry with Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as celebrant. Interment will follow in the St. Martin Cemetery, New Derry.
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Judith E. Asbee - August 26, 1948 - September 05, 2021

Departed: 09/05/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Judith E. (Durasin) Asbee, 73, of Segar, died September 5, 2021 at Excela Health Latrobe Hospital. She was born on August 26, 1948 in Seger a daughter of the late John and Katherine (Skander) Durasin. Prior to retirement Judith worked for Derry School District in the cafeteria. She was a member of the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church and the Croatian Society. Judith enjoyed sewing, taking pictures, and scrapbooking. Besides her parents Judith was preceded in death by her three brothers John, Stephen, and Matthew Durasin; one sister Katherine Pozik, and her close cousin Diane Yakopovich. Judith is survived by her husband of 50 years Robert G. Asbee of Seger (Derry); two sons Gregory R. Asbee and wife Patricia of Latrobe and Joshua M. Asbee and wife Christine of Brenizer; one grandson Joshua “J.J.” Asbee Jr.; one granddaughter on the way Isabella Judith Asbee; two close cousins Kathy Yakopovich and John Yakopovich and his wife Nancy; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Family will receive friends for Judith’s Life celebration 2-4 and 6-8PM Tuesday September 7, 2021 in the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, 724-694-8331. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Wednesday September 8, 2021 in the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Derry, with the Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as celebrant. Interment will follow in the St. Joseph Cemetery, Derry.
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David G. Haering Jr. - February 08, 1934 - August 22, 2021

Departed: 08/22/2021 (Derry)
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James R. Romansky - February 13, 1946 - August 18, 2021

Departed: 08/18/2021 (Derry)
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Daniel P. McDowell - January 23, 1964 - August 17, 2021

Departed: 08/17/2021 (Derry)
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Floyd M. G. "Gib" Kestner Jr. - November 06, 1936 - July 17, 2021

Departed: 07/17/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: Floyd M. Gilbert “Gib” Kestner Jr., 84 of Mount Dora, FL, died Saturday, July 17, 2021. He was born November 6, 1936, in Derry, a son of the late Floyd M. G. Sr. and Sarah “Sally” (Plummer) Kestner. Floyd attended the University of Pittsburgh. He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Cuban Crisis. He served 25 years active duty and reserves before retiring. After his active duty years, Floyd went to work for Kennametal, Inc., an industrial tool supplier. He worked in sales and management and retired after 38 years. Gib, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, enjoyed woodworking. As a young man, he was in several drum corps. He moved to Florida from Woodridge, Illinois in 2005. Floyd was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora, where he was very active in the church. Besides his parents Floyd is preceded in death by one sister Patricia Henderson and one brother Barry Kestner. Floyd is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Evelyn R. (Riffle) Kestner of Mount Dora FL; one son Michael G. Kestner and wife Sherry of Pacifica, CA; two daughters Margie L. Gray and husband Jackie of Dilworth, MN and Beth A. Trupiano of Mount Dora, FL; two grandchildren Chandler Gray and TJ Adamson; niece and nephew Cathy and Timothy Adamson of Greensburg, and also many other nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. The family will receive friends for Floyd’s Life Celebration, on Friday July 23, 2021 from 2-4 and 6-8PM at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331.
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David Raymond Morris - August 15, 1956 - July 14, 2021

Departed: 07/14/2021 (Derry)
Obituary Preview: David Raymond Morris, 64, of Derry, died Wednesday, July 15, 2021, at his home. He was born August 15, 1956, in Greensburg, the son of the late Newlon R. and Ruth (Cummings) Morris. Prior to retirement David worked at Eighteenth Century Hardware. He was a member of the Derry Rod and Gun Club. Besides his parents David is preceded in death by his sister Judy Smoker. David is survived by his brother Lonnie J. Morris and wife Darce of Latrobe; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Services for David will be private for the family. The family has entrusted the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc., 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 15627, 724-694-8331, with the funeral arrangements.
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Terry L. Gunter - February 22, 1967 - July 08, 2021

Departed: 07/08/2021 (Derry)
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Funeral Services

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. offers a range of funeral services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services and memorial gatherings, the funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's life. They understand that every family is different, and they will take the time to listen to your needs and preferences to ensure that every detail is taken care of.

Burial Options

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. offers a range of burial options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer traditional in-ground burial, above-ground entombment, or cremation, the funeral home can help you make an informed decision. They have established relationships with local cemeteries and can assist with selecting a final resting place that is both meaningful and affordable.

Cremation Services

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For families who prefer cremation, Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. offers a range of options. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, the funeral home's staff will guide you through the process with compassion and understanding. They can also assist with selecting an urn or other memorialization options to honor your loved one.

Pre-Planning

While it may be difficult to think about planning for our own passing, pre-planning can bring peace of mind and relieve loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions during a difficult time. Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. offers pre-planning services, allowing you to make your wishes known and ensure that your final arrangements are carried out according to your desires.

Supporting Families

Losing a loved one is never easy, but Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. is committed to supporting families throughout the grieving process. They offer bereavement resources and referrals to local support groups, as well as online grief support resources. The funeral home's staff understands that grief is a journey, and they are here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the services offered by Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc., please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Their experienced staff is always available to provide guidance and support during this difficult time.

Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has served the Derry community for many years. With their commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and dedication to supporting families in their time of need, they are an ideal choice for anyone seeking funeral services in the area. Whether you're planning ahead or have recently lost a loved one, the staff at Matthew X Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. is here to help you navigate this difficult time with dignity and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a permanent record of the person's life and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to fill out.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about memorial services, donations in lieu of flowers, and other details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's wishes. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the notice and help people remember the person who has passed away.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication. You can usually find submission guidelines on the publication's website or by contacting their obituary department directly.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, length of the notice, and other factors. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may have flat fees.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life is remembered in the way they want. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is typically a brief announcement of a person's passing, while an obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include humorous stories or personal anecdotes in an obituary to make it more engaging and reflective of the person's personality.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or conflicts within the family, it's best to approach the writing of the obituary with sensitivity and tact. Consider consulting with other family members or a trusted advisor to ensure that everyone is comfortable with the content.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person who has passed away.

How long after a person's passing should an obituary be published?

The timing of publishing an obituary varies depending on cultural and personal traditions. In general, it's common to publish an obituary within a few days to a week after the person's passing.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, many families choose to publish an obituary online only, either through social media platforms or dedicated online obituary websites. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

What if I need to make corrections to an already-published obituary?

If you need to make corrections to an already-published obituary, contact the publication directly as soon as possible. They will typically work with you to correct the error and republish the revised notice.

Can I reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications?

Yes, you can reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications. However, be sure to check each publication's submission guidelines and formatting requirements beforehand.

How do I ensure that my loved one's obituary is accurate and respectful?

To ensure accuracy and respectfulness, take your time when writing the obituary, proofread carefully, and consider having others review it before submission.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're not comfortable writing an obituary yourself, consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend or family member. Alternatively, many funeral homes or crematoriums offer assistance with writing and submitting obituaries.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include quotes or poems that were meaningful to their loved one in the obituary. This can add a personal touch and help capture their spirit.

How do I handle conflicting opinions within the family about what to include in the obituary?

If there are conflicting opinions within the family about what to include in the obituary, try to find common ground and prioritize accuracy and respectfulness above all else. Consider seeking guidance from a trusted advisor or mediator if necessary.

Can I update an existing online obituary with new information?

Yes, many online obituary platforms allow you to update existing notices with new information. Check with the specific platform for their policies and procedures.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

If you're unsure about what information to include in an obituary, consider consulting with other family members, friends, or a trusted advisor. You can also look at examples of other obituaries for inspiration and guidance.

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About Jeffery Isleworth

Jeffery Isleworth is an experienced eulogy and funeral speech writer who has dedicated his career to helping people honor their loved ones in a meaningful way. With a background in writing and public speaking, Jeffery has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting heartfelt and authentic tributes that capture the essence of a person's life. Jeffery's passion for writing eulogies and funeral speeches stems from his belief that everyone deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect. He understands that this can be a challenging time for families and friends, and he strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Over the years, Jeffery has helped countless families create beautiful and memorable eulogies and funeral speeches. His clients appreciate his warm and empathetic approach, as well as his ability to capture the essence of their loved one's personality and life story. When he's not writing eulogies and funeral speeches, Jeffery enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling. He believes that life is precious and should be celebrated, and he feels honored to help families do just that through his writing.