Latest news with #TheRayenSchool
Yahoo
18-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Donna L. Bukovi, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Donna L. Bukovi, 86, of Youngstown's west side, passed away Sunday, April 13, 2025. Donna was born May 31, 1938, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Louis and Frances Brewer Lukanec and was a lifelong area resident. Find obituaries from your high school She was a 1957 graduate of The Rayen School and dedicated her life to raising and caring for her family. Donna found her greatest joy in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her beloved dogs — including her 'granddogs.' She especially loved decorating for Christmas, often filling her home with joy and cheer using extremely large trees and festive decor. Donna also had a green thumb and enjoyed growing flowers in pots throughout her home, always tending to them with care and pride. Donna is survived by her three daughters, Kim Bukovi (Larry), Pam (Robert, Sr.) Jones and Lisa Bukovi (Debbie) all of Youngstown; her five grandchildren, Robert Jones and Louis (Taylor) Jones, Michael Winland, Zachary (Marilyn) Bukovi and Destiny Lumby; her sister, Linda Diamond of Canfield; five great-grandchildren, Carter, Asher, Theo, Silas and Aniyah; her beloved beagle, Sassy and many extended family members. Donna will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her husband of 53 years, Louis T. Bukovi, whom she married May 8, 1958, died July 13, 2011; her son, Thomas 'TJ' Bukovi, is also deceased. Family and friends may call from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m., Monday, April 21, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and caregivers who went above and beyond in caring for Donna with compassion and dedication. To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Daphne Louise Taylor, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – With heavy hearts, we gather to celebrate the life of Daphne Louise Taylor, a cherished mother, sister and friend, who departed this world on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. She was born on June 11, 1957, to the union of Samuel Overton Sr. and Mattie Myles-Overton, in the quaint town of Central, South Carolina. Daphne's journey led her to Youngstown, Ohio, where she nurtured her family and built a legacy of love and resilience. Find obituaries from your high school Daphne attended The Rayen School and was a proud veteran of the United States Marines, enlisting in November 1979 and rising to the rank of Lance Corporal before her honorable discharge in July 1981. She carried the values of courage and commitment throughout her life, including her unwavering loyalty to the Miami Dolphins. An avid reader, Daphne found solace in the worlds created by Stephen King and she often dreamt of gracing the bright lights of Jeopardy! as a contestant. Daphne was a vibrant chef whose culinary prowess could brighten any gathering. Working in the culinary services at Mercy Healthcare, she poured love into every dish, mastering the art of lasagna, ribs, burgers and her famously delightful, deviled eggs. Her dream was to take her talents beyond the kitchen, as she aspired to create her own cooking show, 'Switching in the Kitchen with Daphne Taylor.' Bright and spirited, she was the type of person whose laughter could fill a room, donning her collection of chef hats and aprons with pride, a true symbol of her passion. Daphne cherished meaningful moments, always bringing good energy that made everyone smile. A people's persons, her signature salutation was always 'AHEY-HEY-HEY' which became her favorite tagline upon greeting others. Her infectious laughter, comic timing brought light and laughter to any event or gathering she attended. Daphne embraced family with an open heart, loving fiercely her children, LaShana Myles, Albert James Taylor Myles III, Sierra Whitney, Jolice Whitney, Jasmine Whitney and Justine Whitney; her brothers, Samuel (Mittie) Overton, Jr., Mark Overton, Timothy (Carolyn) Overton, Sr., Kenneth, (Sandra) Overton and Chris Overton, all holding a special place in her heart; along with her devoted companion, Daniel Floyd; she also leaves precious memories and moments with her bonus sisters, Maudessia Patterson and Diane Armour; Diane also cherished her 18 grandchildren; aunts, Eloise Myles, who reared her and Shirley (Rev. George) Wilkins; along with a score of family members including nieces, nephews and cousins. As Daphne answered the call to cross into eternity, she was reunited and invited to the ancestral table which included her parents, Mattie Overton and Samuel Overton; sister, Armenta Colyar and grandchildren, DeLove Whitney and Damon L. Irby, Jr. In the embrace of family, friends and memories, we bid farewell to a bright spirit who now dances among the stars. Daphne Louise Taylor will forever be missed, cherished and remembered for the love she poured into every dish and every laugh. As we remember Daphne, we invite you to join us to celebrate her life and the joy she brought to so many. A public viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m., with military honors where Pastor George Wilkins will officiate. The family will honor her legacy with a private committal ceremony before her interment within the sacred grounds of the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 14300 Decourcey, Rittman, OH, at a later date. As we say our farewells, let us carry forward Daphne's legacy of love and her remarkable spirit, forever alive in our memories and hearts. May she rest in peace, knowing she was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Daphne Louise Taylor honored her expressed wishes and entrusted the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500. Send flowers to the service of Daphne Louise TaylorCopyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Richard A. Benson, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Alfred Benson a.k.a. 'Pappy', 78 of Youngstown, Ohio, who left us on Saturday, March 29, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Rick was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who was a model and inspiration for his entire family. Rick was born on February 7, 1947, in Youngstown to Carl Arthur Benson and Maude Edith Benson (Storey). Rick spent his childhood on Thornill Road, with his siblings, Arthur T. Benson, Virginia Benson Ladig, R. Thomas Benson and Herbert L. Benson. Find obituaries from your high school He graduated from The Rayen School in 1965 and attended Youngstown State University. Rick went on to serve in the U.S. Navy up to the rank of Petty Officer Third Class, with a rating as a radarman. He was stationed on the USS Hancock, where he received several honors and awards, and was honorably discharged in 1969. Rick went on to a lifelong career at AT&T, where he was proud to serve as a union representative for the Communications Workers of America. Rick also was very involved with his church, First Presbyterian of Youngstown, where he served as both a Deacon and an Elder, and the American Legion and VFW Post 419 out of Girard, Ohio, where he served as Commander of the VFW Post for 16 years, up until his passing. Finally, Rick was a prior member of the Vasa Club, and was involved in the Boy Scouts of American Troop 55, where he was an Assistant Scoutmaster, District Commander of the Mahoning Valley Council, and currently was the charter organization representative with First Presbyterian Church. He also was previously affiliated with Troop 46 based out of Churchill United Methodist Church, where he served as Scoutmaster. As a result of his lifetime commitment to the Boy Scouts, he was awarded the Celtic Cross Award in 2021, from the National Association of Presbyterian Scouters. Rick loved camping, with some of his favorite memories taking place with his family and friends at Holiday Camplands in Andover, Ohio. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles, attending off-Broadway theater, and playing darts and bowling in local leagues. Rick is survived by his loving wife, Sandy (Milicich); his sons, Josh (Kim Burke), Matthew (Sarah Beasley) and Lucas (Libby Fawcett); his brother, R. Thomas Benson and his sister-in-law, Cindy Milicich. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Sydney (Jeremy), Olivia, Emily, Bridget, Jack, Maggie, Mary, Caroline and Cindy, who provided him with untold joy and happiness in his final decades. He additionally leaves behind his cherished pets, Zeke, Ruby, Louie, and Kato. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Arthur and Maude Edith; his brothers, Arthur and Herbert; his sister, Virginia and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Stephen Milicich and Mildred Milicich (Adamovich). Rick will be remembered for his kind heart, his jovial (and irreverent) sense of humor, and the endless love he had for his family. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy and spirit will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. Calling hours will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown on Friday, April 4, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. There will be additional calling hours on Saturday, April 5 at 10:00 a.m., to be followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown, Ohio. Arrangements handled by Lane Family Funeral Homes. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard, please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Wednesday, April 2 at the following approximate times: 6:47 a.m. on WYTV, 9:43 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Shalaunda 'Lala' Nakaia Adkins, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – In loving memory, we celebrate the life of Shalaunda Nakaia Adkins, affectionately known to many as 'Lala,' who left us on Thursday, February 27, 2025, just shy of her 50th birthday. Born to the union of Vickie Adkins and Nelson Kennedy, on March 7, 1975, in Youngstown, Ohio, Shalaunda was a vibrant spirit whose light touched everyone she encountered. Find obituaries from your high school A graduate of The Rayen School and a proud follower of her passion for fashion, Shalaunda was a true trendsetter, pursing a degree at Youngstown State University for Interior Designing. Always dressed to impress, her zest for life was matched by her love for the Dallas Cowboys and her strong spirit as a first female enforcer of the Joker's MC, known as 'Xclusive Monroe.' Shalaunda's presence was magnetic; her laughter infectious, and her ability to demand respect was unparalleled. Those who knew her felt her strength and were captivated by her love—a unique blend of discipline and warmth that made her a compassionate leader in all facets of her life, including her faithful presence at Christ Centered Church. A beloved member of the community, Shalaunda dedicated her professional life to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities through her work at Invision. She approached her role with fierce dedication and a heart full of compassion, reflecting her strength as a person and her unwavering commitment to uplift those around her. Shalaunda was more than her career. She was a devoted mother, nurturing her children, Jujuan Adkins-Pinkard, Sr., Jontae Rivere, Reginald Jones, Jr., Jalazia Green and Annjalasha Martinez, with love and tenacity. Lala remains deeply cherished and embedded in the hearts of her father, Nelson Kennedy; brother, Durwin L. Adkins and sister, Latisha Alexander. Lala was a beloved 'Gaga' to her 11 grandchildren, showering them with affection and wisdom, creating memories that will forever echo in their hearts. Her legacy will remain vibrant among a score of family and friends. As Lala crossed the celestial shores into eternity, she was reunited with the ancestors who preceded her including her beloved mother, Vickie Adkins and sister, Keishma Adkins. As we remember Shalaunda, a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, friend, and fierce advocate for love, we cherish the legacy of strength and compassion she leaves behind. Her departure leaves a space that will forever be filled with the memories we created together, and her spirit will continue to guide us. The community will gather to honor Lala's incredible journey with a 'Fifty Shades of Blue' Celebration of Life to be held on her 50th Birthday. Friends and family are invited to join the Adkins family on Friday, March 7, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Club 221, located at 166 Mahoning Avenue. In the spirit of Shalaunda's vibrant personality and favorite color of hues of blue, all attendees are encouraged to 'dress to impress' in the theme color of blue. The family of Shalaunda 'Lala' Nakaia Adkins entrusted the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements, to J. E. Washington Funeral Services, located at 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio. For any inquiries, please call 330-782-8500 Send flowers to the service of Shalaunda 'Lala' Nakaia 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Rochelle Lynette Lemon-Madison, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Dr. Rochelle Lynette Lemon-Madison, 55, of Youngstown, transitioned from this earthly life on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. Dr. Lemon-Madison was a proud organ donor. She was a psychologist with the Department of Correction for over 20 years. She was the daughter of Murray Carter and Rhonda Lee Lemon-McKee. Find obituaries from your high school She loved to travel and enjoyed taking vacations with family and friends and was a faithful patron for the Yo. to The Bus reunions. She was the co-salutatorian of her class and a student council officeholder, and the president of her high school social club called Popular Demand. Rochelle was voted most likely to succeed when she graduated from The Rayen School, in Youngstown, in 1987. She faithfully supported the Rayen Tigers until the end. She later attended college at Youngstown State University and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 1991 with a minor degree in Math. With determination and hard work, she later received her Master of Arts degree as well as her PhD in Psychology at the University of Akron. Her hobbies were shopping and watching Grey's Anatomy. She was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. She leaves to cherish her beloved memory and celebrate her life and legacy, her father, of Warren; her aunt and caregiver, Jacquelyn D. Lemon of Struthers; cousins, Kimberly Smith of Maryland, Shirell Jackson, Candace Lemon and Philip Lemon Sr. all of Youngstown; two goddaughters, Sierra Lemon of Youngstown and Keesah Gaddy of Columbus; her significant other, Kevin Madison of Columbus and his parents, Kermit Blunt of Youngstown and Karen Harris of Youngstown; godmother, Barbara Winston; god-aunt, Yvonne Lawrence; and a host of other family and friends. Visitation: February 21, 2025 – 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Celebration of Life: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Arrangements are being handled by the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rochelle Lynette Lemon-Madison, please visit our floral store. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
