Breaking News

Obituaries

Carolyn Jane Johnson

Carolyn Jane Johnson, 94, of Tyrone, most recently of Garvey Manor, died Thursday at UPMC Altoona. She was born in Philipsburg, a daughter of the late Harry “Newt” and Dorothy (Ross) Husted. On Aug. 22, 1952, she married Gene A. Johnson, who died Aug. 24, 2015. She is survived by a son, Gene A. “Sparky” Johnson of Roaring Spring; a daughter, Jill Johnson of Tyrone; her grandchildren: Jennifer Panasiti, Susannah Miller and Naomi Johnson; great-grandchildren: Jenna Panasiti, Oaklee Panasiti, Landon Johnson Miller and Naomi Johnson; and siblings: Peggy (Stuart) Naismith, ...

Anthony Francis Kubica

Anthony Francis Kubica, 77, of Altoona passed away Wednesday. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Martin and Suzanne Kubica. Surviving are his wife, Judy; daughters, Crystal and Rebecca Kubica; grandchildren: Jasmine Biddle and Jaden and Solomon Kubica; and a great-grandson, Weston. He was preceded in death by siblings: Veronica, Michael and Joseph Kubica. Anthony was a U.S. Army veteran. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards and collecting coins. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at Sorge Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., Hollidaysburg.

Phillip Perry Leaper

Phillip Perry Leaper, 69, of Duncansville, formerly of Williamsburg, passed away Saturday. He was born in Canoe Creek, son of the late Raymond S. and Dorothy V. (Blackstone) Leaper. Phillip was a graduate of Hollidaysburg High School, and a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and NASCAR. He was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister. Surviving is his son, Colin William Leaper of Browns Mills, N.J.; as well as numerous brothers and sisters. At Phillip’s request, no services will be held. Arrangements are by Fink & Stone Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., Williamsburg.

Terry F. Merritts

Terry F. Merritts, 84, of Altoona, passed away Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, after an extended illness, surrounded by his loving family at UPMC Altoona. A complete obituary will appear in the Mirror at a later date. Arrangements are by The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona.

Karen McElheny-Feather

Karen McElheny- Feather, 71, formerly of Loretto, died Dec. 31, 2025. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Robert and Rosalie (Krise) McElheny. She was also preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Thomas Feather. Surviving are her husband, James; brother, Kevin; brothers-in-law: Harry, David and Robert; and sister-in-law, Lovann Feather. Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, at Askew-Houser Funeral Homes Inc., 300 North Julian St., Ebensburg. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at the Basilica of St. Michael the ...

Dawn Marie (Rago) Showalter

Dawn Marie (Rago) Showalter, 62, of Altoona, passed away Monday at UPMC Altoona surrounded by her loving family, after brain distress following cardiac arrest. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Domenick and Rose Marie (Colabove) Rago. Dawn was a member of Our Lady of Mount ...