Barbara Vanats Obituary
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Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Barbara lived the majority of her life in Monaca. Barbara was a daughter of the late Keith Thomas and Ella Gertrude (Locke) Ely. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband's Stephen Phillips and Carl Vanats, her brothers Chuck (Rita) Ely, Keith Thomas 'Tom' (Barb) Ely, Ralph Ely, and her sisters Pearl Louise Ely, Beatrice (William) Knowlson, Mary Lou (Jack) Jeffers, and Sandy Hunter.
Barbara was a devoted mother and is survived by her loving children: Deborah (Mike) McDonald, Stephen Phillips, Alex (Lonnie) Phillips, Daniel (Tammie) Phillips, and William (Teresa) Phillips. Sisters Rosetta Baker and Beverly Crisman. She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.
After dedicating her life to raising her five children, Barbara entered the workforce, taking on various part-time jobs. It was in these roles that she continued to touch the lives of many, making friends wherever she went. Her radiant smile, kindness, generosity, humor, and loving nature were her trademarks, and she was always ready to welcome new friends into her life.
She had a passion for playing cards and games, and she cherished the time spent with her family above all else. These activities were not merely hobbies for Barbara; they were extensions of her warm, inviting personality and her way of nurturing the bonds she held so dear.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 26st from 2 pm – 8 pm at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca where services will be held on Thursday at 10 am with Reverend Dr. Richard Herbster, officiating. Interment will follow in St John the Baptist Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank Pinnacle Hospice and Celebration Villa of Chippewa for the kindness and compassion that was shown to Barbara and her family.
To share online condolences, view Barbara's video tribute, get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Barbara Vanats, please visit our Tree Store.
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