Josephine Merenda

Josephine E. Merenda , 92, of Forbes Road, died Wednesday, Aug.11, 2021, in the Hempfield Manor. She was born July 17, 1929, in New Alexandria, a daughter of the late Charles and Elizabeth Merichko DiOrio. Josephine was a member of St. Bartholomew Church, Crabtree, and the former St. Mary's Church, Forbes Road, where she was the former president of the Rosary Altar Society and served as the Sacristan for the Church. Her family, friends and faith were very important to her. She enjoyed preparing our family holiday traditions. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Merenda in 1986, and a son, Brian Merenda in 1988.  She is survived by four children, Gary Merenda (Mary), of Dunnellon, Fla., Jerry Merenda (Cindy), of Hannastown, Samuel Jeffrey "Babe" Merenda, of Gay, Ga., and Denise Grabiak (Chris), of New Alexandria; seven grandchildren, Jason Merenda (Brigid), Samuel Aaron Merenda, Elizabeth Merenda, Anthony Merenda (fiance, Alisha Fultz), Jessica Kelley (Jason), Jennifer Falo (Dave) and Miranda Grabiak (fiance, Jon Ketzlach); five great-grandchildren, Sophia and Charlie Merenda and Anna, Michael and Madeline Merenda; two brothers, Lou DiOrio (Bev), of Hunker, and Charles DiOrio, of Norvelt; and numerous nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Josephine from 10 to 11:15 a.m. Friday, the time of parting prayers, in the CLEMENT L. PANTALONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 409 W. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, PA 15601, 724-837-0020. A funeral Mass will follow at noon in the St. Bartholomew Church, Crabtree, with Father Justin Matro, OSB, celebrating. Interment will follow in Calvary Hill Cemetery, Crabtree. At the family's request, masks will be required. The family would like to thank all the wonderful people at Hempfield Manor and Three Rivers Hospice for their love and support while caring for our mother.  Josephine's family has entrusted her care to the Pantalone Funeral Home, Inc., Greensburg. To share your memories and photos, offer your condolences or for directions, please visit us at www.pantalone.com. Natale N. Pantalone, supervisor.