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Jennie Paolone

Lucinda Jane "Jennie" (Miner) Turner Stevenson Paolone was born on July 24, 1856 near Humbert, Somerset County, PA, the daughter of Henry A. and Matilda (Rose) Miner.

She never learned to read or write, and signed her name with an "X" in official documents. In 1871, when she was 15, she and her parents and siblings moved to Connellsville, Fayette County, a booming coal and coke town where jobs were plentiful.

In 1879, at age 22, Jennie was either married to, or a significant other of, Abraham G. Turner ( ? - ? ). He was 15 to 20 years older than she was. That year, on May 13, 1879, their daughter Hannah Matilda Turner was born in Connellsville.

The Turners separated at some point in time.

At age 37, in 1892, Jennie resided in Washington County, PA. That year, on June 13, 1892, she eloped to Cumberland, Allegany County, MD to marry 47-year-old widower John Stevenson (1845- ? ), also of Washington County. The ceremony was performed by Rev. W.E. Bird of the Kingsley Methodist Episcopal Church.

The Stevensons settled in Connellsville.  In October 1902, John deserted her and spent several years away.  Jennie later told a judge that she was compelled to take on "washing and scrubbing" work to support herself and saved enough to buy a "small three-room house and lot" in Connellsville.  She later sued for divorce but it was never finalized.  John apparently came back home, and died on Sept. 15, 1910.

In 1906, the City of Connellsville celebrated its centennial anniversary. Jennie and her extended family of Miner siblings no doubt would have gone to see the Centennial Arch, located at the corner of Crawford Avenue and Pittsburgh Street. The famed arch was constructed completely of coal and coke, and was donated by her brothers' employer, the H.C. Frick Coke Co., part of the United States Steel Corporation. The initials of the company -- "H.C.F.C.Co." -- were lighted at the very top, and outlined in red.

On Oct. 7, 1911, at age 45, Jennie married Italian laborer Frank Paolone (1871- ? ), of Connellsville, who was 15 years younger than she. 

The marriage was rocky, and in 1915 she sued for divorce. His fate is unknown.

During the early 1910s, Jennie took care of her aged, widowed father. He died of gangrene at her home on July 26, 1912. The following year, she filed a claim with the federal government for reimbursement of her personal expenses in her father's final illness and burial. The Department of the Interior rejected the claim on the basis that he had left assets which, together with a Pennsylvania burial allotment, were sufficient to meet the expenses.

Jennie countered by writing a letter, a portion of which is seen here. The letter stated that outstanding debts and IOUs had wiped out the financial resources of the estate, and that she had paid these down "by working in the wash tub." 

She claimed to be "a broken down old woman" who had "nursed him for over six months before death came to his relief. I had to work washing to buy medicine for him and when he did I paid all the debts against him as fast as I could earn a dollar to pay upon them." Because she could not pen a letter herself, F.B. DeRoche performed the handwriting, and she signed with an "X." 

Jennie's surname on her father's medical bills and IOUs from 1912-1913 was spelled in various ways, such as Palona, Palogne and Bolone, and also as Stephenson.

When the federal census was taken in 1920, in an interesting arrangement, Hannah and her former husband Abraham Turner were living under the same roof in the home of their daughter Hannah, on 301 Connell Avenue in Connellsville. Also in the residence were Hannah's children Albert Giles, Sadie Giles, William Giles, Samuel Giles and Mabel Giles.

In 1929-1930, Jennie and her siblings attended the large McDowell-Miner Reunions held at Hillcrest Park in Connellsville. 

Jennie resided in her final years in the home of her grandson Samuel Giles at 301 Connell Avenue in Connellsville. She is enumerated there in the federal census of 1930, along with her sister Mary Ann Richter. Her grandchildren lovingly called her "Granny."

She suffered a fatal stroke in the Giles residence in late January 1936, and was unconscious for about two weeks. Her sufferings ended on Feb. 10, 1936, when she passed away, at the age of 79 years. The funeral was held in the chapel of John J.D. Sibel, and she was laid to rest at Hill Grove Cemetery. A local physician pronounced the cause of death as pneumonia and "cardiac degeneration."

Jennie's obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier noted that she was "survived by six grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. The grandchildren are Mrs. Hazel Evans, Albert and William Giles, all of this city, Samuel Giles of Whitsett, Mrs. Mabel Rosenbloom of Ambridge and Mrs. Sadie Straitiff of Scottdale." The obituary also noted that her maiden name was spelled "Minerd" and that she had come to Connellsville in 1871 "and had since resided here."

~ Daughter Hannah Matilda (Turner) Giles ~

Daughter Hannah Matilda "Anna" Turner (1879-1954) was born in 1879. 

She married William Ethelbert Giles Sr. (1873-1952), the son of John and Elizabeth "Lydia" (Caddy) Giles of Millsboro/East Bethlehem, Washington County, PA. The wedding took place on Sept. 10, 1895. They remained together for 56 years until separated by death.

The couple produced seven known children -- Arthur Seman Giles, Albert Franklin Giles Sr., William Ethelbert Giles Jr., Samuel A. Giles, Mabel Rosenbloom Robinson, Sadie Straitiff and Hazel Evans.

Sadly, son Arthur died at the age of two months on or about Oct. 9, 1918, with a one-sentence obituary printed in the Connellsville Weekly Courier newspaper.

Circa 1900, the Gileses resided in Swaugertown near Connellsville. William, whose father was a mine boss, is known to have worked at the Coalbrook Mine and H. C. Frick Coke Co. works at Davidson (Moyer) in Connellsville. He also as a steel mill laborer and a laborer at the Soisson Fire Brick Company. His name today is honored on the Coal Miners Memorial Website. 

Hannah was a member of the Salvation Army in Connellsville. During World War I, when William was age 45, he had to register for the federal military draft, but was never called to duty. Their home was at 301 Connell Avenue.

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1920, William and 18-year-old son Albert earned a living as a laborer in a steel mill. Hannah's mother and father lived under their roof at that time.

William was wounded in a freak shooting accident in late October 1943 which the Connellsville Daily Courier called "the first serious hunting accident of the season." While on the hunt on the farm of his cousin Charles "Red" Minor with cousin Harold Ethan Rose and friend "Heavy" Stillwagon, they "were in the underbrush when a pheasant flew up. The bird had risen only about six feet when Stillwagon is said to have blazed away with the bullets striking Giles, walking only a short distance away... Just a few minutes before the accident Giles had brought down a pheasant." Pellets struck William in the left eye and temple, and he was hospitalized in Connellsville State Hospital. 

In later years, following retirement, William earned income by working as a watchman in a coal yard.

The Gileses celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 10, 1945. The Daily Courier said they "enjoy good health."

William died after a lingering illness of organic heart disease at the age of 78 on March 29, 1952. 

Hannah outlived him by two years and endured hardening of the arteries. She passed away at age 74 on April 26, 1954, and was laid to rest at Mount Olive Cemetery in nearby Bullskin Township. At the time of Hannah's death, she had 31 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

~ Granddaughter Hazel (Giles) Evans ~

Daughter Hazel Giles (1900-1982) was born on June 27, 1900 in Connellsville, Fayette County. 

She was united in marriage with Chauncey Lorenzo Dow "Russell" Evans Sr. (April 8, 1890-1959), son of Lorenzo and Rebecca Anna (Burkett) Evans of McKees Rocks. Russell also used the names "James" and "Chauncey."

They produced a family of eight children -- Russell Woodrow Evans, Rev. Melvin "Chauncey" Evans, Geraldine Lueck Booth, Eugene Evans, Elmer Evans, Annie Evans, Dolores Evans and Chauncey Lorenzo Dow Evans Jr.

When their son Russell was born in 1919, the Evanses dwelled in Hyndman, Bedford County, PA. Then in 1925, at the birth of son Chauncey, they were in Columbus, Franklin County, OH. In time, the couple returned to southwestern Pennsylvania, where Russell earned a living as a watchman and fireman for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in Pittsburgh.

Their home in the 1940s was on Elizabeth Street in Groveton/Coraopolis, near Pittsburgh, and by 1946 at 1214 Vine Street in McKees Rocks.

Having been afflicted with Hodgkins Disease of the colon and testicles, Russell passed away on Feb. 7, 1959 at the age of 68. A death notice printed in the Pittsburgh Press noted that he was survived by 21 grandchildren.

Hazel outlived her husband by 23 years, and died at the age of 81 in January 1982. They are buried together at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in McKees Rocks.

Son Russell Woodrow Evans (1919-2000) was born on Jan. 25, 1919 in Hyndman, Bedford County, PA. He grew up in Connellsville. In 1931, when he was age 12, Russell and his brother 11-year-old Melvin, who both were excellent swimmers, rescued cousins Bruce and Anna (Christian) Miner from drowning in the Youghiogheny River at Stony Point. The news was reported in the Monessen Daily Independent. Russell stood 5 feet, 8 inches tall in manhood, weighed 165 lbs., and had hazel eyes and brown hair. He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Betty Lydic ( ? - ? ). The couple did not reproduce. Russell was a veteran of World War II, enlisting on Aug. 8, 1941 and serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps with the rank of sergeant. After his honorable discharge in 1945, he returned home, and dwelled at 221 South Millvale Avenue in Pittsburgh. Later in 1945, when he filled out paperwork about his military service, he stated that he was unemployed and that his mother-in-law Nora Baldwin would always know his whereabout. He also disclosed that he had a scar on his head. Later, the Evans relocated to a home in McKees Rocks near Pittsburgh. He earned a living as a truck driver. He passed away on Aug. 24, 2000, at the age of 81. A notice of his death was published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Son Rev. Melvin "Chauncey" Evans (1920-1992) was born on Oct. 23, 1920 in Connellsville, Fayette County. In adulthood he stood 5 feet, 7½ inches tall, weighed 160 lbs. and had grey eyes and brown hair. On Nov. 6, 1943, when he was 23 years of age, he was united in holy matrimony with Theresa Carmella Calabrese (Dec. 31, 1923-1992), the daughter of Jennie Calabrese and a native of Glenfield, Allegheny County, PA. Because Theresa was age 19, her mother had to sign her legal consent to the union. Together, Chauncey and Theresa produced a large family of 14 children -- oldest to youngest Theresa Carmella Evans, Melvin Chauncey Evans Jr., James Edward Evans, Samuel Salvatore Evans, Russell Woodrow Evans, Melvina Larisa Evans, Francis Eugene Evans, William Robert Evans, Ronald Wayne Evans, baby girl Evans, Joseph Mark Evans, Hazel Idella Evans, twins Chauncey Lorenzo'dow Evans and Ida Laverne Evans, and Marri Ann Shanks. Sadly, eldest daughter Theresa died in infancy, and an unnamed daughter miscarried late in the pregnancy.

When he was a boy, while swimming in the Youghiogheny River in Connellsville, Chauncey found an axe that was thought to have been used in a 1932 triple murder considered the "bloodiest crime in Connellsville's history." The discovery generated top headlines in the Connellsville Daily Courier. In February 1942, he was required to register for the military draft during World War II. At the time, he lived with his parents in Groveton/Coraopolis near Pittsburgh, and was employed by a nearby glass factory, working for Mr. Daley. Circa 1943 -- the year of their marriage -- Chauncey was a pipe checker, and Theresa a welder, supporting the war effort at home. At some point he enlisted in the U.S. Army. Later, he served as a pastor of a Presbyterian church in Wilkinsburg, a suburb of Pittsburgh. The couple grieved in August 1982 at the death of their son James. Melvin passed away in Burgettstown, Washington County, PA on Sept. 29, 1992, and she died just three days later, on Oct. 2, 1992. The obituaries were printed in the Valley Independent of Monessen. They are buried in Economy Cemetery in Ambridge, Beaver County, PA.

• Grandson Melvin Chauncey Evans Jr. ( ? - ? )

• Grandson James Edward Evans ( ? -1992) was born in (?). He wedded Diane Turino ( ? - ? ). The couple established a residence in Sewickley, near Pittsburgh. They were the parents of Jamie Diane Evans and Holly Ann Evans. Sadly, James died without warning on Aug. 9, 1982. His remains were interred in the Temple of Memories Mausoleum in Allegheny Cemetery. A death notice was published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

• Grandson Samuel Salvatore Evans ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Russell Woodrow Evans ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Melvina Larisa Evans ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Francis Eugene Evans ( ? - ? )

• Grandson William Robert Evans ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Ronald Wayne Evans ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Joseph Mark Evans ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Hazel Idella Evans ( ? - ? ) has made a residence in Wintersville, OH.

• Grandson Chauncey Lorenzo'dow Evans ( ? - ? ) is a twin with his sister Ida.

• Granddaughter Ida Laverne Evans ( ? - ? ) is a twin with her brother Chauncey.

• Granddaughter Marri Evans ( ? -living) wedded Gerald Earl "Jerry" Shanks (May 11, 1948-2009), a native of Detroit and the son of Donald and Joyce Ann (Plaunt) Shank. They are the parents Gerald Wayne "Jerry" Shanks, Gregory Shanks, Jeffrey Shanks and Gina Shanks. The family dwelled in Oil City, Venango County, PA. Gerald earned a living as an electronics technician and assisted in designing remote control technology for use in the transportation field, especially applied to railroad locomotives. Grief swept over the family when Gerald suffered a massive stroke on Aug. 26, 2009 and was hospitalized. Unable to recover, the 61-year-old passed away on Nov. 7, 2009 in St. John Lutheran Care Center in Mars, Butler County, PA. His remains were cremated. Marri graciously has shared information for this biography and with her son Jerry has attended several of our national family reunions.

Daughter Geraldine E. Evans (1922-2004) was born on Dec. 8, 1922. She was married twice. Circa 1953, she wedded her first husband, Joseph M. Lueck (Sept. 29, 1914-1962), a native of Maryland and the son of Helen Borris and an unknown father. He was divorced from Viola Bond ( ? - ? ) and brought these two offspring to the second union -- Corp. Bernard Joseph Lueck and Nancy Lueck. The two children born to Geraldine and Joseph were Michael T. Lueck and Judy Lynn Berman. Their home was on 1210 Third Street in McKees Rocks. Joseph was a veteran of World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Navy on July 15, 1942 and serving as a painter third class. He was discharged after four months and five days on Nov. 20, 1942. He continued his career in civilian life as a painter. Joseph appears to have had a temper, and in December 1950 was treated in the Connellsville hospital for a cut above his left eye, which he suffered in a fight. On the fateful day of July 27, 1962, while at work painting Shady Side Academy at 400 South Braddock Avenue in Point Breeze, the 47-year-old Joseph suffered a massive heart attack. He was transported to Columbia Hospital in Wilkinsburg, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. News of the incident was published in the Pittsburgh Press and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Interment of the remains was in Mount Calvary Cemetery in McKees Rocks. Later, she married Harry W. Booth (1921-1987). At one time her home was in Beaver Falls, Beaver County, PA. Later in life, she resided in Stowe Township, near McKees Rocks in Pittsburgh. Harry died on July 3, 1987, with a death notice appearing in the Press. Geraldine outlived her second spouse by 17 years. She passed away at the age of 81 on July 2, 2004. The Post-Gazette printed an obituary. She and Harry sleep side by side for all of eternity in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

• Step-grandson Corp. Bernard Joseph Lueck

• Step-granddaughter Nancy Lueck

• Grandson Michael T. Lueck may have dwelled in South Beaver Township, Beaver County, PA in 1992.

• Granddaughter Judy Lueck appears to have been married twice. Circa 1987, her married name was "Gutt." Then in 2004, it was "Berman."

Son Chauncey Lorenzo Dow Evans Jr. (1924-2008) was born on Oct. 28, 1924 in Columbus, Franklin County, OH. When he was 21 years of age, on Aug. 17, 1946, he married Ida Laverne Davis (1926-1995), daughter of Henry and Rhoda (Patton) DAvis and a native of New Castle, Lawrence County, PA. Their wedding ceremony was held in Pittsburgh and performed by alderman Leonard A. Civill. The couple's union endured for 49 years. The four children born to this marriage were Betty Jane Harris, Chauncey Evans III, David Evans and Ida Grimsley. At the time of marriage, Chauncey earned a living as a shipper. Said the Dover (DE) State News, he "enjoyed a 30-year career with the Pittsburgh and Ohio Valley Railroad, retiring in 1978 as train master. He served with the U.S. Navy during World War II." He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of Franklin Masonic Lodge 12 in Georgetown, DE, and was a past sachem of Nanticoke Tribe 21, Fraternal Order of the Redmen. In his free time he liked to fish and golf. Ida Laverne was a longtime member of the Pocahontas Anona Council of Georgetown. Stricken with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, Ida Laverne died at home on June 9, 1995. Her obituary was published in the Wilmington (DE) News Journal. Chauncey outlived her by a dozen-plus years. He passed away in Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, DE at the age of 83 on Jan. 13, 2008. He was laid to rest next to his wife at the Henlopen Memorial Park in Milton, DE. An obituary in the Delaware State News said that he was survived by nine grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

• Granddaughter Betty Jane Evans ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She wedded (?) Harris ( ? - ? ). Circa 1995, she made a home in Mechanicsville, VA. She was deceased by 2008.

• Grandson Chauncey "Buddy" Evans III ( ? - ? ) lived in Georgetown, DE in 2008.

• Grandson David Evans ( ? - ? ) was in New London, CT in 1995, and by 2008 had relocated to Conway, SC.

• Granddaughter Ida Evans ( ? - ? ) was joined in wedlock with (?) Grimsley ( ? - ? ). The couple established a residence in Roanoke, VA.

Daughter Dolores Lorain Evans (1930-living) was born on Sept. 24, 1930. She married Edgar Allen Chestnutt (Sept. 12, 1931-1994), a native of German Township, Fayette County and a son of Darrell Kenneth and Leona Margaret (Brown) Chestnutt Sr. (In an interesting twist, Dolores' sister Anna married Edgar's brother Darrell "Tex.") The couple produced two known sons -- Terrance Allan Chestnutt and Randall Curtis Chestnutt, and perhaps others. The family relocated by 1958 to Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, OH, where Edgar was employed as an assembler by Ford Motor Company. At that time, they lived in an apartment on Franklin Boulevard. Evidence hints that the Chestnutts moved back to McKees Rocks by the early 1990s and resided at 902 Page Street. Sadly, Edgar passed into eternity at the age of 62 on Valentine's Day 1994. His remains were lowered under the sod in McKees Rocks' Mount Calvary Cemetery, and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published a death notice. Dolores outlived him by many years. She was in Pittsburgh in 2008.

• Grandson Terrance Allen Chestnutt (1952-2016) was born on Aug. 29, 1952 in McKees Rocks. He grew up in Cleveland and remained there in adulthood. He died at the age of 63 in St. Augustine Manor on March 24, 2016. The remains were brought back to Pittsburgh for a Christian prayer service and burial.

• Grandson Randall Curtis Chestnutt (1956-2012) was born on Feb. 18, 1956 in Cleveland. He made his residence over the years in Lakewood and Valleyview, OH. He is believed to have been married on Feb. 18, 2012 in Florida, but to have died less than four months later on June 4, 2012.

Daughter Anna "Annie" Evans (1933-2015) was born on St. Patrick's Day 1933. She was united in matrimony with Darrell Kenneth "Tex" Chestnutt Jr. (June 8, 1928-2000), son of Darrell Kenneth and Leona Margaret (Brown) Chestnutt Sr. of Adah, Fayette County, PA. Darrell stood 5 feet, 9 inches tall, weighed 145 lbs. and had brown eyes and brown hair. He also bore a scar on his right knee. At the closure of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from June 30, 1946 to April 16, 1948. . The couple resided in McKees Rocks (Stowe Township) near Pittsburgh. Their three children were Diana Mainolfi, Linda Holloway and Darrell Chestnutt III. Tex passed away on April 22, 2000, at the age of 72. Anna survived him by 15 years. She died at the age of 82 on April 29, 2015. Funeral services were held in the Anthony M. Musmanno Funeral Home in McKees Rocks followed by burial in Mount Calvary Cemetery. At her death, her photograph and death notice were printed in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

• Granddaughter Diana Chestnutt was joined in marriage with Joseph "Joe" Mainolfi.

• Granddaughter Linda Chestnutt was united in matrimony with Paul Holloway .

• Grandson Darrell Chestnutt III wedded Heather.

Son Elmer E. Evans (1936- ? ) was born on July 20, 1936. He made a home in Pittsburgh in 2008.

Son Eugene Evans (1938-living) was born on Sept. 19, 1938. He dwelled in Milton, SC in 2008 and was still living in 2015.

~ Grandson Albert Franklin Giles Sr. ~

Son Albert Franklin Giles Sr. (1901-1970) was born on Aug. 13, 1901 in Fayette County.

When he was 18 years of age, in 1920, he and his father were employed as laborers in a steel mill.

He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Minnie Bell Trump (Jan. 23, 1908-1976), daughter of Charles and Emma (Richter) Trump of Connellsville.

Their dozen children were Gladys Clark McCormick, Hazel Morris Chaney, Mabel Sanner, Mary Louise Means, Minnie Bell Gagean Bryner, Dorothy Hall, Albert Franklin Giles Jr., William Giles, Samuel Giles, Joseph Giles, James Giles and Paul Giles.

Their home in the late 1940s was in South Connellsville, at 405 West Cummings Avenue.

Circa 1954, they resided in Vanderbilt, Fayette County. Albert and Minnie were members of the Salvation Army Corps in Connellsville. When their two eldest daughters were in troubled first marriages, she served as their guardian in successfully filing divorce actions in court.

Following a lingering illness, Albert died at Connellsville State General Hospital on Nov. 7, 1970 at the age of 69. In an obituary, the Connellsville Daily Courier reported that his survivors included 51 grandchildren.

Minnie survived him by six years and lived at 407 Highland Avenue in Connellsville. In 1974, she endured the heartache of the tragic deaths of her daughter Mary Louise Means and grandson Larry Means in a housefire in New Jersey.

Having been admitted to Frick Community Hospital in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, Minnie passed at the age of 68 on July 15, 1976. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery. An obituary was printed in the Daily Courier.

Daughter Gladys "Skinny" Giles (1925-1973) was born on Dec. 28, 1925 in Connellsville. Evidence suggests that she was twice-wed. Her first husband was George A. Clark ( ? - ? ). They tied the knot in Connellsville on March 27, 1943, when she was 17 years of age. George then left to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. Upon his return on Dec. 8, 1946, the couple rejoined their union, but he became abusive. She filed for divorce in early January 1946, utilizing her mother as her guardian. The Connellsville Daily Courier reported in July 1946 that on "six of the seven days he was home on furlough ... she was struck by her soldier-husband for trivial causes. He blackened her eye and broke her nose in beatings administered at various times. Once he threatened to throw her over a bridge at Connellsville if she told anyone... First Clark used his open hand to slap her, the wife said, but later used his fist." Her weight during that period dropped 35 lbs. to 115 lbs. Later, she married Francis O. McCormack Jr. (March 29, 1925-1994). They produced one daughter together, Thelma Joyce McCormack. He was a longtime steel worker for U.S. Steel and "was a sergeant with the U.S. Army, having served in World War II," said the Daily Courier. Their address in 1973 was 315 Connell Avenue in Connellsville. Sadly, Gladys died at the age of 47 on Oct. 18, 1973. The Daily Courier published an obituary. Francis lived for another 11 years and passed on March 28, 1994.

• Granddaughter Thelma Joyce McCormack (1964- ? ) was born in about 1964. She lived with her parents in Connellsville in 1973. On July 14, 1986, she was married to William E. Nicklow (1955- ? ).

Daughter Hazel Elizabeth Giles (1927-2003) was born on Aug. 23, 1927 in Connellsville. As with her sister Gladys, Hazel was married twice. On Sept. 18, 1945, she wedded her first spouse, Enoch Noah Morris (1915?- ? ). The marriage was troubled, and he moved out eight months later on May 28, 1946. She sued for divorce, utilizing her mother to institute the case. The divorced was granted by Judge S. John Morrow in Uniontown on Nov. 26, 1948. Later, she wedded Howard E. Chaney (Dec. 29, 1915-1989). They produced seven children -- Edward Chaney, Howard Chaney Jr., Gladys Mae Brown, Gloria Raye Metzger, Alverta Herbert, LaFayette Chaney and Emmert Chaney. Their home for decades was in Connellsville. Howard died in 1989. Hazel lived for another 14 years as a widow. She remained in Connellsville. She succumbed at Select Specialty Hospital in Greensburg at the age of 76 on Nov. 13, 2003. An obituary noted that she was survived by 17 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery, with Rev. Bob Chambers leading the funeral service.

• Grandson Edward Chaney (1946- ? ) was born in 1946. On April 17, 1970, he married his first wife, Beth Ann Keffer (1951- ? ). They bore a son, James E. Chaney. Later, Edward wedded Deborah ( ? - ? ) and dwelled in Scottdale, PA in 2003.

• Grandson Howard Chaney Jr. (1951- ? ) was born in about 1951. On Feb. 2, 1973, he was united in marriage with Deborah Leigh "Debbie" Firestone (1952- ? ). In 2003, their home was in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Gladys Mae Chaney (1954- ? ) was born in 1954. On July 28, 1973, she wedded Robert F. Ray Jr. (1945- ? ). Later, she became the wife of (?) Brown. They resided in Camp Hill, PA in 2003.

• Granddaughter Gloria Raye Chaney (1957-2003) was born on Dec. 14, 1957. On July 24, 1976, when she was 18 years of age, she was joined in marriage with Scott W. Metzger Sr. (1956- ? ). Their two known offspring were Howard W. Metzger. and Hazel L. Metzger. Gloria Raye's social memberships included the Sons of Columbus, Polish Club and Dunbar Eagles Club. She was known for "her compassion and caring for others." The couple divorced, with Scott moving to Bullskin Township. Sadly, Gloria Raye died at the age of 45 on May 20, 2003 in Highlands Hospital in Connellsville. Pastor Robert Swope led the funeral service, with burial in Normalville Cemetery. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Alverta K. Chaney (1962- ? ) was born in about 1962. She was united in holy wedlock on June 21, 1986 with J. Ronald Herbert ( ? - ? ). They dwelled in 2003 in Dunbar, Fayette County.

• Grandson LaFayette Chaney (1964- ? ) was born in about 1964. On Aug. 16, 1986, he married Tammy Sue Firestone (1962- ? ) and lived in Connellsville.

• Grandson Emmert Chaney ( ? - ? ) was joined in wedlock with Debra ( ? - ? ). Their residence in 2003 was in Connellsville.

Son Albert Franklin Giles Jr. (1930-1994) was born on April 7, 1930 in Greene County, PA. He served in the Korean War, and was a mechanic for Dunbar Township near Connellsville. In 1970, his home was in Vanderbilt, Fayette County. Albert was joined in the bonds of wedlock with a double cousin, Margaret A. "Peggy Sue" Jennings (June 27, 1932-2021), daughter of Edgar and Thelma (Johnson) Jennings of Connellsville. Peggy was related to her husband through her father, of the family of Alvin Howard and Lydia J. (Kemp) Jennings -- and through her mother, of the family of William Harrison and Ida (Hyatt) Younkin. They were the parents of eight -- Coletta Miller, Barry Lee Giles, Douglas Lee Giles, Chris D. Giles, Elaine Hope Weimer, Greg E. Giles, Larry Franklin Giles and Debra Ann Giles. Sadly, Albert Jr. passed away in 1994 at the age of 64. Peggy Sue endured for more than three decades as a widow. She liked to play the guitar and sing and performed in a band for a number of years. She bore the additional heartbreak of the deaths of her son Larry and daughters Colleta and Debra Ann. She was gathered away by the spectre of death, at the age of 88, on Jan. 6, 2021. Bishop Robert Swope Sr. officiated the funeral, followed by interment in Normalville Cemetery. The Connellsville Daily Courier published an obituary.

• Granddaughter Coletta Giles (1955-1993) was born on Sept. 15, 1955. On April 26, 1973, at the age of 17, she wedded 24-year-old Clifford "Dale" Miller Jr. (Sept. 14, 1948-2021), son of Clifford Dale and Dorothy (Camp) Miller Sr. of South Connellsville. The couple's two children were Peggy L. Hadley Sawadoga and Todd Allen Miller. Dale served with the U.S. Army as a rifleman with the 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry, and was deployed to Berlin, Germany. Later, he earned a living as a stone mason contractor. Grief blanketed the family when Coletta succumbed to death on June 26, 1993. Burial of the remains was in Normalville Cemetery. Dale outlived his wife by 28 years and made his home in Dawson, Fayette County. Another son was involved with this family, Clifford Dale Miller III. In his free time he liked to play guitar and fish. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 72 on April 1, 2021. An obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Officiating the funeral was a distant cousin of Coletta's, Pastor Lee Maley of the family of Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle.

• Grandson Barry Lee Giles (1957- ? ) was born on Aug. 14, 1957 in Connellville. He claimed that Lee Miller was his father. On Nov. 15, 1975, he married Diane Maria Goodwin (1958- ? ). They were the parents of three -- Jason Eric Giles, Barry Lee Giles Jr. and Heather Dawn Stoffa. The family was plunged into mourning with their eldest son Jason died just shy of his second-month of life on July 31, 1978. The couple may have divorced. Barry Lee resided in Connellsville in 2021 and in Belle Vernon, PA in 2023. He earned a living as a machine operator with William house. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, "Barry was a known jack-of-all-trades. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, numerous different cowboy movies and playing bingo." As his health plummeted, Barry became a patient at the West Virginia University Medicine Uniontown Hospital. There, he died at the age of 65 on May 2, 2023. An obituary was published in the Daily Courier. As he had done for Barry's brother-in-law Clifford "Dale" Miller Jr., distant cousin Pastor Lee Maley presided at the funeral service. Interment of the remains was in Normalville Cemetery.

  Great-grandson Barry Lee Giles Jr. has dwelled in Connellsville. He is the father of Nathan Giles and Noah Giles. In 2023, he was a companion of Amanda.

  Great-granddaughter Heather Dawn Giles wed Michael Stoffa. The couple's two children are Anthony Stoffa and Domenic Stoffa. They relocated to Reading, Berks County, PA, and were there in 2023. 

• Grandson Douglas Lee Giles Sr. (1958- ? ) was born in 1958. He resided in Connellsville. On May 15, 1985, he was united in holy matrimony with Carol Ann Kerr (1951- ? ). Two offspring were born to this union -- Douglas Lee Giles Jr. and LeAnne Wiggins. Circa 2021-2023, they were in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Chris D. Giles wedded Buzz Nicholson. They put down roots in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Elaine Hope Giles was united in matrimony with (?) Weimer. They dwelled circa 2021-2023 in Connellsville.

• Grandson Greg E. Giles (1962-2021) was born on Nov. 11, 1962 in Connellsville. He spent his life in the city and was employed as a laborer in the construction and masonry industries. He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Lynn Doyle ( ? - ? ). They bore a son, Greg E. Giles Jr. Lynn passed away at a young age. He later kept company with Tracy Sue Curry (May 8, 1965-2006), daughter of Evelyn (Butela) Curry. Although not married, they too produced a son, Blain Giles. Sadly, Tracy Sue died at the age of 41 on New Year's Eve 2006. Burial was in Mount Tabor Cemetery, and Rev. Bryan Tate Fulton, of the Albright United Methodist Church, preached the funeral sermon. Greg survived for another 15 years. He died without warning at the age of 58 on Aug. 29, 2021. His distant cousin Pastor Lee Maley presided over the funeral service. The body was laid to rest in Mount Tabor Cemetery, with an obituary appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Great-grandson Greg E. Giles Jr. has resided in Arizona and is the father of Greg E. Giles III.

Great-grandson Blain Giles lived in Connellsville in 2021.

• Grandson Larry Franklin Giles (1951-2006) was born on Jan. 7, 1951 in Connellsville. He married Elizabeth Duarte ( ? - ? ). He was the father of Stacey Manda and stepfather of Jennifer Bloyer. Larry joined the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War. He went on to earn a living in Connellsville with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. In time he joined New Jersey Transit and was employed as an engineer for 29 years. He eventually retired from the company. He made his final residence in Effort, Monroe County PA in 1994-2006. Sadly, he died at home in Effort at the age of 55 on March 10, 2006. His obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The remains were returned to Connellsville for a memorial service conducted by Pastor Robert Swope.

  Great-granddaughter Stancey Manda resided in Hummelstown, PA and in 2006 served in the Pennsylvania National Guard.

  Step-great-granddaughter Jennifer Bloyer has dwelled in Effort, PA. 

• Granddaughter Debra Ann Giles was deceased by 2021.

Daughter Mabel Catherine Giles (1934-2005) was born on July 30, 1934 in Connellsville. Circa 1950, when Mabel would have been about 16 years of age, she married Arthur Ray Sanner Sr. (Dec. 12, 1930-1997). They dwelled in Connellsville for many years. The Sanners produced seven children -- Kenneth R. Sanner, Charles "Chuck" Sanner, Elma Pavelek, Arthur Sanner Jr., Mary Jeffers, Laverne Parsons and Olive Bigley. Arthur was employed as a loader for 36 years at Anchor Hocking's plant in Connellsville. Mabel worked at Connellsville Sportswear, Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation and Bud Murphy's Restaurant. She also was a member of the Sons of Columbus, Dunbar Eagles, Slovak Club and served as president of the American Legion Post 301 Ladies Auxiliary. Arthur died on Oct. 12, 1997 at the age of 67. Burial was in Eutsey Cemetery in White, Fayette County. Mabel maintained her home in Connellsville and died there at age 71 on Oct. 3, 2005. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery, with a distant cousin, Rev. Lee Maley, officiating. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier numbered 30 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

• Grandson Kenneth R. Sanner Sr. (1951- ? ) was born in 1951. On April 13, 1971, he married Shirley V. Pritts (1950- ? ). Their only child was Kenneth R. Sanner Jr. Later, Kenneth wedded Robin. They have lived in Dawson, Fayette County.

• Grandson Charles Francis "Chuck" Sanner ( ? - ? ) wedded Roxanne ( ? - ? ), and they have made their home in Owensdale, Fayette County.

• Granddaughter Elma Sanner (1959- ? ) was born in 1959. On Aug. 20, 1977, she wedded Machan Pavelek (1952- ? ). In 2005, they resided in Butler, Butler County, PA.

• Grandson Arthur Ray Sanner Jr. ( ? - ? )was joined in holy wedlock with Ruby ( ? - ? ). Their home in 2005 was in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Mary A. Sanner (1963- ? ) was born in 1963. On July 3, 1990, she married Charles T. "Ted" Jeffers ( ? - ? ). Ted died an untimely death prior to 2005.

• Granddaughter Laverne Sanner (1968- ? ) was born in 1968. She was united in matrimony on May 30, 1987 with David R. Parsons (1968- ? ). They dwelled in Grovetown, GA.

• Granddaughter Olive M. Sanner (1970- ? ) was bornin 1970. She married Joel Bigley ( ? - ? ). They lived in Dunbar, Fayette County.

Son Samuel Earl Giles (1935-2000) was born on Sept. 12, 1935. He married Annie Christina Watson (Nov. 22, 1937-1981). They produced a large family comprised of a dozen children -- Amos Albert Giles, Sadie Elizabeth Buzzelli Bloom, Annie Christnia Buzzelli, Jackie David Giles, Paula Fay Brothers, Agnes Giles, Hazel Giles, Heather Giles, Jacqueline Diana Perryman, John Giles, Paul Frederick Giles and Samuel E. Giles Jr. Sadly, Annie died in 1981 at the age of only 44. Tragedy struck this family on March 6, 1989. Samuel passed away on Aug. 20, 2000.

• Grandson Amos Albert Giles (1959- ? ) was born in 1959. On Aug. 13, 1982, he was united in marriage with Karen Sue Cooke (1961- ? ). Later, on April 1, 1993, he wedded Christina M. (Hall) Maust (1970- ? ). The couple made their home in Dunbar, Fayette County.

• Granddaughter Sadie Elizabeth Giles (1962- ? ) was born in 1962. She was twice-wed. Her first husband, with whom she tied the knot on Nov. 2, 1979, was Robert D. Buzzelli (1954- ? ). In time she was united in wedlock with James Bloom ( ? - ? ). Sadly, she was deceased by 2016.

• Granddaughter Annie Christina Giles (1963- ? ) was born in 1963. She was joined in the bonds of wedlock on Aug. 17, 1981 with Mark Allen Buzzelli (1956- ? ). They have dwelled in Dunbar.

• Grandson Jackie David Giles Sr. (1964-1989) was born on Dec. 1, 1964. When he was 19 years of age, on April 6, 1984, he married April R. Dyer (1965- ? ). Their family of offspring were Jennifer R. Fletcher, Jackie David Giles Jr., Wendy Giles and Nicole Giles. Tragecy struck on March 6, 1989 when Jackie Sr. was killed "when a piece of machinery fell on him ... while dismantling machinery at the site of the former USX Homestead Works" in Munhall, near Pittsburgh, said the Connellsville Daily Courier. His remains were lowered under the sod in Normalville Cemetery. He is one of a disturbingly large number of cousins to lose their lives in connection with the coal, coke and steel industries in our nation.

• Granddaughter Paula Fay Giles (1966- ? ) was born in 1966. On Nov. 21, 1995, she was wedded to Richard L. "Rich" Brothers (1961- ? ). They have lived in Vanderbilt, Fayette County.

• Granddaughter Agnes Giles ( ? - ? ) made her residence in Dunbar.

• Granddaughter Hazel Giles ( ? - ? ) made her home in Dunbar.

• Granddaughter Heather Giles ( ? - ? ) married Ralph Anderson ( ? - ? ) and resided in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Jacqueline Diana Giles ( ? - ? ) was united in matrimony with Harry Perryman ( ? - ? ). Their home in 2016 was in Dunbar.

• Grandson John William Giles (1958-2016) was born on March 15, 1958 in Connellsville. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Later, he was employed by Sony Corporation and the County of Fayette as a security guard. John married Karen Hall ( ? - ? ). They resided in Dunbar, Fayette County and had two children -- Suzanna Ainsworth and Tiffany Thomas. John died at the age of 58 in UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh on Aug. 12, 2016. His remains were placed into eternal rest in Normalville Cemetery, with a distant cousin, Rev. Lee Maley -- of the family of Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle -- officiating at the funeral service, which included full military rites. The Connellsville Daily Courier published an obituary.

• Grandson Paul Frederick Giles ( ? - ? ) was deceased in or before 1981.

• Grandson Samuel Giles ( ? - ? ) was wedded to Beverly ( ? - ? ). Circa 2016, they lived in Connellsville.

Daughter Mary Louise Giles (1940-1974) was born on April 12, 1940 in Connellsville. She was joined in holy matrimony with Clyde Means ( ? - ? ). Their offspring were Larry Duane Means and Ruth Margaret Means. The family dwelled in 1970 in Connellsville and in 1974 were in Elizabeth, NJ. Tragedy enveloped this family on the morning of March 26, 1974, when a fire swept through their home and claimed the lives of Mary and her eight-year-old son Larry. News was published on the front page of the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Grandson Larry Duane Means (1966-1974) was born on Dec. 24, 1966 in Connellsville. As a boy he relocated to New Jersey with his parents. Tragically, he and his mother were victims of a fire in their home on March 26, 1974.

• Granddaughter Ruth Margaret Means made her home in Dawson, Fayette County in 1974.

Daughter Minnie Bell Giles (1947-2012) was born on July 21, 1947 in Connellsville. As a girl, she suffered a number of injuries requiring hospital visits, including bee stings and having her left thumb caught in a car door. She was twice united in wedlock. On Nov. 19, 1965, she was joined in wedded union with her first spous, Thomas Gagean (Jan. 21, 1944- ? ). The couple did not reproduce. In 1970-1976, their residence was in Connellsville at the address of 102 South Prospect Street. By 2000, she had remarried to David Bryner ( ? - ? ) and lived in the McKees Rocks community of Pittsburgh. She relocated to Bedford, VA and was there in 2008 and to the end of her life. She succumbed to the angel of death in Bedford at the age of 64 on July 17, 2012. Her remains were returned to Fayette County for funeral services at Bethel Baptist Church in Uniontown, led by Pastor Aaron Douthitt. An obituary was printed in the Greensburg Tribune-Review.

Daughter Dorothy M. Giles (1952- ? ) was born in 1952. On Sept. 23, 1970, at the age of 19, Dorothy wedded to David Hall (1952- ? ). They lived in Connellsville in 1970, in California in 1973 and in Bedford, VA in 1976-2000. Dorothy was still living as of 2012.

Son William E. "Pete" Giles (1932-1994) was born in about 1932. In the early 1950s, he joined the U.S. Air Force and was posted in Shreveport, LA. After his service ended, he remained in Louisiana, making a home in the community of Bossier City. William was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Marilyn ( ? - ? ). The couple produced seven offspring -- Carolyn Ann Cheney, Peggy Marie Giles, Mary Elizabeth Giles, Minnie Bell Giles, Mark S. Russell, William E. Giles Jr. and James Giles. He was employed for 19 years for the Veterans Administration Medical Center from which he retired. At age 61, after suffering an extended illness, he passed into the realm of the eternal on March 6, 1994 while a patient in Bossier Medical Center. An obituary was printed in the Shreveport Times. Interment of the remains was in Hill Crest Memorial Park, with funeral services preached by Rev. Ray Hall of Metro Baptist Church.

• Granddaughter Carolyn Ann married (?) Cheney.

• Granddaughter Peggy Marie Giles

• Granddaughter Mary Elizabeth Giles

• Granddaughter Minnie Bell Giles graduated in 1982 from Airline High School.

• Grandson Mark S. Russell

• Grandson William E. Giles Jr.

• Grandson James Giles

Son Joseph A. "Joe" Giles (1937- ? ) was born in about 1937. As a boy of seven, he was hospitalized in Connellsville when knocked down by a moving vehicle on Crawford Avenue ans suffering lacerations of his toes. Then at age 12, in 1949, while riding his bicycle on Fairview Avenue, he was struck by a car and hospitalized. Circa 1955, he served with the U.S. Air Force as an airman first class and was based at Sampson Air Force Base in Geneva, NY. Once he completed his service, Joseph returned to Connellsville. Then at the age of about 19, in about March 1956, he was united in holy matrimony with Patricia C. Beere of McKees Rocks near Pittsburgh. The couple dwelled in McKees Rocks in 1970 and relocated to the State of Indiana by 1974.

Son James Edward "Jim" Giles (1938-2008) was born on Oct. 22, 1938 in Connellsville. On March 10, 1973, in a ceremony held in Laurel, IN, he was joined in wedlock with Shirley Mae Rose ( ? -2003). Their six children were Cheryl Woods, James Edward Giles Jr., (?) Giles, Howard Giles, Charles Giles and Dallas Day Jr. They dwelled in Texas for many years and lived in Louisiana in the early 1970s and in Connersville, IN in 1973-2000. He enjoyed attending Community Gospel Church, and earned a living in Connersville in maintenance and lawn care for Heritage House and at Dale Cemetery. Sadly, Shirley Mae died on Sept. 29, 2003. James survived his bride by a little more than four years. He passed away at the age of 69 on Jan. 29, 2008 in the emergency room of Fayette Regional Health System. Burial was in Everton Cemetery, with Rev. Robert E. Lee officiating the service from the family church.

• Granddaughter Cheryl Giles married Scott Woods. In 2008, their home was in Cloverdale, IN.

• Grandson James Edward Giles Jr. lived in Fort Myers, FL.

• Grandson (?) Giles resided in Little Rock, AR.

• Grandson Howard Giles married Laura and dwelled in Fort Myers.

• Grandson Charles Giles made his home in 2008 in Fort Myers.

Son Paul F. Giles (1941-2013) was born on July 28, 1941 in Connellsville. He resided in 1970 in Connellsville, in 1973 in Uniontown and in 1974 again in Connellsville. On Oct. 3, 1997, he was united in marriage with Nola Lucas ( ? - ? ). She had been married before and brought these children to the marriage -- Robert Smith, Terri Johnson, Micki Walters, Vicki Paxton, Paula Bulmer and Jeff Case. Paul had two children of his own, Paul F. Giles Jr. and Mickey Giles. While in Connellsville, he earned a living working at Al Renzy Bowling Alley. Then, after relocating to Connersville, IN, he was employed at Heritage House Nursing Home. It's been said that he enjoyed sports, horseshoes, bowling, pool and oldies music. Paul was admitted to Heritage House where he died in at the age of 71 on July 11, 2013. Burial was in Columbia Cemetery, with services led by Rev. Richie Ware. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

• Grandson Paul F. Giles Jr.

• Grandchild Mickey Giles

~ Granddaughter Sadie (Giles) Straitiff ~

Daughter Sadie Giles (1904-1972) was born in July 1904.

She married Lafayette Straitiff (Feb. 20, 1896-1965). A veteran of World War I, he was the son of William P. and Ruth M. (Kelley) Straitiff of Mount Union, PA.

They together produced four children -- William P. Straitiff, Patricia Mattis, Edward Dale Straitiff and Pearl Martin.

Lafayette earned a living over the years as a blacksmith and coal miner.

The Straitiffs' residence in the mid-1930s was in Connellsville. By 1940, when the federal census enumeration was made, they relocated to Fairchance, Fayette County. Their address during the 1960s was at 119 North Main Street in Fairchance, Fayette County.

They were members of Trinity Methodist Church in Fairchance. Sadie also belonged to the Fairchance Firemen's Auxiliary, Fairchance Hospital Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary and Protective Home Circle of Uniontown.

Lafayette was diagnosed with cancer of the spinal cord in 1963. After a two-year decline, added to heart valve and electrolyte imbalance, he died at the age of 69 on Sept. 10, 1965. Burial was in Uniontown's Park Place Cemetery, with Rev. Harry L. Humbert officiating, and a death notice printed in the Uniontown Morning Herald.

Sadie lived for another nine years as a widow. In 1970, she suffered the death of grandson Melvin Paul Fike II.

She died at the age of 68, in Uniontown Hospital, on July 9, 1972. A death notice published in the Morning Herald noted that her survivors included seven grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Son William P. Straitiff (1920-1999) was born in 1920. In about 1947, when he was 27, he wedded Nevada (Victor) Link ( ? -1992). News of their marriage license was printed in the Uniontown Morning Herald. He served during World War II as a paratrooper with the A Company of the 506 PIR, 101st Airborne Division. This included a jump into France during the D-Day invasion. The Morning Herald said that he "was the only serviceman from Fairchance during World War II to serve with the paratroopers." Nevada also provided military service during the war in the Women's Air Corps. Circa 1965, his home was in Glen Riddle, PA. By 1972, he relocated to Claymont, New Castle County, DE. Their address in 1992 was 22 Denham Street. Nevada died at home on Nov. 10, 1992, with an obituary appearing in the Wilmington News Journal. William outlived his wife by seven years. He joined her in eternity on April 10, 1999.

Daughter Pearl Straitiff (1924- ? ) was born in about 1924. She grew up in Connellsville and Fairchance, Fayette County. She was joined in matrimony with Fred Martin Jr. ( ? - ? ). Together, they bore a family of three -- Lorraine Martin, Twila Martin and Kenneth Martin. Pearl dwelled in Markleysburg, PA in 1960-1972.

• Granddaughter Lorraine Martin grew up in Fairchance.

• Granddaughter Twila Martin

• Grandson Kenneth Martin

Son Edward Dale Straitiff (1943- ? ) was born in 1943. He married Sandra Agler ( ? - ? ), daughter of William Agler of Lakewood, OH. During the Vietnam War, at the age of 17, in 1960, he joined the U.S. Armed Forces and trained as a paratrooper at Fort Knox. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, Company 506, based at Fort Campbell, KY. Later, he was shipped overseas to Vilsock, Germany. They produced at least two children, Duane Edward Straitiff and Lafayette Michelle "White Cloud" Straitiff. By 1965, his residence was in Bennettsville, SC. Then circa 1972, he made his home in Claymont, New Castle County, DE. In 1982, his wife was named in the Wilmington News Journal as "Peggy." Did he also marry Doris McGhee ( ? - ? )?

• Grandson Dwayne Edward Straitiff (1963- ? ) was born in 1963.

• Granddaughter Lafayette Michelle "White Cloud" Straitiff studied during her junior and senior years of high school at the Arkansas School of Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts, a residential high school for academically advanced students.

Daughter Patricia Eugenia Straitiff (1948- ? ) was born in about 1948 and grew up in or around Fairchance. On March 20, 1971, she married Frank Mattis ( ? - ? ). They lived in Uniontown in the 1970s, with Frank employed by Solomon & Teslovich and Patricia by E.J. Monaghan Chevrolet. As bestowed by the Hutchinson Sportsmens Club in July 1977, they were named Potato King and Queen. That same year, they were injured when their motorcycle collided with a truck on Route 40 in Hopwood.

~ Grandson William Ethelbert "Bill" Giles Jr. ~

Son William Ethelbert "Bill" Giles Jr. (1907-1983) was born on Dec. 10, 1907. 

He married Mildred Gladys Swink (Dec. 1, 1907-1975).

They produced six children -- Mildred M. Stull, Paul E. Giles, Constance June Harr, Gloria Wilfong, Robert L. Giles and Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Giles. 

He was a coal miner for Republic Steel Corp., and worked as a custodian for the Connellsville Area School District. He also was a deacon and trustee at Faith Bible Church. Circa 1928, they resided in Fitz Henry, having moved from Connellsville. 

Sadly, just after the New Year's holiday in 1929, their five month old daughter Mary Elizabeth Giles passed away. The child's burial was in Hill Grove Cemetery. 

Mildred died on Dec. 30, 1975, and was buried in Green Ridge Memorial Park. William married again, to Esther (Whoric) Welling (1915-1982). 

William lived for another seven-plus years and endured the passing of his second wife on July 24, 1982. He was swept away by the Angel of Death on March 6, 1983. The couple sleeps for all time in Green Ridge Memorial Park in Pennsville near Connellsville.

Daughter Mildred "Pat" Giles (1929-2007) was born on Sept. 12, 1929 in Connellsville. On April 13, 1952, she married Wallace Eugene "Gene" Stull (1927-1999). The pair went on to bear four children together -- Debra Catherine Cauffiel, Suzanne Kinzey Buzzelli, Candice Marie Stull and Sandra Lane Neufeld. The family grieved at the untimely death of daughter Candice. For many years, Mildred earned a living as a lead cook for Connellsville State General Hospital and then Highlands Hospital. The family were members of Faith Bible Church. In her spare time, Mildred liked to play cards in local clubs including the Ladies Card Club, with which she was affiliated for 52 years. Wallace passed away on Oct. 1, 1999. Mildred outlived her husband by eight years. As her health declined, she was admitted to Laurel Ridge Care Center in Uniontown. She succumbed there at the age of 77 on July 31, 2007. Rev. Barry Witt officiated at the funeral service. Interment followed in Green Ridge Memorial Park in Pennsville near Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Debra Catherine Stull (1955- ? ) was born in 1955. On Sept. 11, 1977, she wedded David John Cauffiel (1953- ? ). They are the parents of Lindsay Cauffiel, Lauren Cauffiel and Corey Cauffiel.

• Granddaughter Suzanne Stull (1958- ? ) was born in 1958. She appears to have been married twice. Her first spouse, whom she wed on June 30, 1978, was Garry Lee Kinzey Sr. (1955- ? ). They produced a son, Garry Lee Kinzey Jr. Later, she was joined in matrimony with Robert Buzzelli ( ? - ? )..

• Granddaughter Candice Marie Stull ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 1999.

• Granddaughter Sandra Stull Lane ( ? - ? ) was joined in marriage twice. Her first husband was (?) Lane ( ? - ? ). Their two children were Nicholas Lane and Alysia Lane. In time, she married again to Phillip Neufeld. In 2007, her home was in Hawaiian Gardens, CA.

Son Paul E. Giles (1932-1996) was born on Jan. 27, 1932. He wed Melva L. Overly (July 14, 1931-2021), the daughter of William Franklin and Nettie May (Keller) Overly. The four sons they produced together were Paul E. Giles Jr., Jeffrey L. Giles, William Brian Giles and Corey Giles. Melva held a membership in the Faith Bible Church. Sadly, Paul died on Jan. 29, 1996 at the age of about 64. Interment took place in Green Ridge Memorial Park. Melva outlived her husband by almost 26 years and maintained a home in Connellsville. At the age of 90, on Dec. 17, 2021, she succumbed to the spectre of death as a patient in Excela Health Frick Hospital. Her obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier reported that Rev. Barry Witt officiated the funeral service, with burial following in Green Ridge.

• Grandson Paul E. Giles Jr. (1955- ? ) was born in 1955. On Oct. 27, 1984, he married Marianne Lucy (1962- ? ). Then on Sept. 12, 2003, he wedded a second time to Mary Louise (Stanley) Pulliam (1957- ? ).

• Grandson Jeffrey L. "Jeff" Giles Sr. (1957- ? ) was born in 1957. On Aug. 25, 1979, at the age of 21, he was joined in the bonds of matrimony with Anita Louise Ciliberti (1961- ? ). Their only known son was Jeffrey L. Giles Jr. By 2021, he had married again to Candice ( ? - ? ).

• Grandson William Brian Giles (1958- ? ) was born in 1958. On Nov. 8, 1980, he was united in the union of wedlock with Neka K. Baldwin (1961- ? ). The only child borne of this union was Tiffany R. Smith.

• Grandson Corey Giles ( ? - ? ) married Libby ( ? - ? ).

Son Robert L. Giles (1934-1993) was born in 1934. He "was employed by the Connellsville Area School District for 24 years as an air conditioner and heat maintenance person," said the Daily Courier. He also was a trustee of the Connellsville Township Volunteer Fire Company and the Fraternal Order of Eagles 493. He married Harriet E. Porterfield (1934-2005), daughter of Ben and Leona (Ritenour) Porterfield of Rogers Mills, Fayette County. They had four children -- Barbara Ann Wisilosky, Bobbie Kay Thomas, David Allen Giles and Steven Lewis Giles. Harriet was a longtime seamstress with Connellsville Sportswear, working there for 32 years. She also was active with the auxiliary groups of the Eagles and fire department. She died in Uniontown Hospital on June 29, 2005, at the age of 70. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park, with Rev. Robert Swope officiating at the funeral service, and an obituary appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Barbara Ann Giles married William Wisilosky. They lived in Connellsville in 2005.

• Granddaughter Bobbie Kay Giles wedded Dennis Thomas. Their home in 2005 was in Scottdale.

• Grandson David Allen Giles was deceased by 2005.

• Grandson Steven Lewis Giles was deceasead by 2005.

Daughter Constance June "Connie" Giles (1939- ? ) was born on April 5, 1939. At the age of about 17, on Feb. 23, 1957, she married Russell Lee Harr (July 15, 1935-2005), son of Lloyd and Leanna (Nicholson) Harr of Connellsville. They lived in Connellsville for decades. The couple bore these known children -- Russell L. Harr Jr., Cheryl Reed  and Cynthia Miller. Russell was a medic in the U.S. Army National Guard and later went on to long-term employment with West Penn Power Company, specializing in the work of "demand analyzer." They were members of Faith Bible Church, and Russell served in the role of deacon. He belonged to the Odd Fellows Club and enjoyed the hobby of photography. Russell was admitted to UPMC Shadyside Hospital where he died at the age of 69 on July 10, 2005. Rev. Barry Witt preached the funeral sermon, with burial in Green Ridge Memorial Park. An obituary was published in the Greensburg Tribune-Review. The widowed Constance continued to make a home in Connellsville.

• Grandson Russell L. Harr Jr. wedded Theresa. They were the parents of Cassidy Harr. The family was in Connellsville in 2005.

• Granddaughter Cheryl Harr married David Reed. Children born to this marriage were David Reed Jr., Brian Reed, Jason Reed and Robert Reed. Their home circa 2005 was in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County.

• Granddaughter Cynthia Harr was joined in marriage with Richard Miller. They produced three offspring -- Kelly Miller, Holly Miller and Heather Miller. Circa 2005, they made a home in Connellsville.

Daughter Gloria J. Giles (1931-2002) was born on New Year's Day 1931. She wed Walter Wilfong ( ? - ? ), believed to have been the son of Garnet W. and Susan M. (Roy) Wilfong. The couple bore nine offspring -- Sherman H Shockey, William Shockey, Walter Wilfong Jr., Jeffrey Wilfong, Sharon Long, Becky Wingrove, Deborah Corby, Tawana Wilfong and Patricia Compton. They relocated to Bruceton Mills, Preston County, WV. Sadly, Gloria passed away at home on Oct. 4, 2002. Her remains were placed into rest in Shady Grove Cemetery in Bruceton Mills, with Rev. Dale Rexrode officiating at the funeral service. Walter married again to Peggy ( ? - ? ).

• Grandson Sherman H Shockey of Baltimore

• Grandson William Shockey of Baltimore

• Grandson Walter F. Wilfong Jr. ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). He was united in wedlock with Denise Lynn (Long) Tylka (June 18, 1964-2019), a native of Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA and the daughter of Ronald C. Long and Donna Mae (Hixson) Tylka Clark and stepdaughter of Perry Clark and Sharon Long. The two sons born to this union were Jason Scott wilfong and David W. Wilfong. They lived the Clifton section of Bruceton Mills, where Denise earned a living working at the Family Dollar Store. In her extra hours, she liked to fish, gamble, shop and spend time with horses. Grief cascaded over the family when Denise died without warning at the age of 54 on June 6, 2019. Following funeral services in Brandonville/Bruceton Mills, led by Rev. Barry M. Adkins, her remains were transported back to Pennsylvania to rest in repose in Greenlick Cemetery in Mount Pleasant. The Connellsville Daily Courier printed an obituary.

• Grandson Jeffrey Wilfong of Lemont Furnace, PA

• Granddaughter Sharon Wilfong married (?) Long and lived in Bruceton Mills.

• Granddaughter Becky Wilfong wedded (?) Wingrove. Their home in 2019 was in Wooddale, PA.

• Granddaughter Deborah Wilfong was united in matrimony with (?) Corby. They dwelled in Oakland, MD.

• Granddaughter Tawana Wilfong resided in Bruceton Mills

• Granddaughter Patricia Wilfong was joined in wedlock with (?) Compton. They lived in Bruceton Mills.

Daughter Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Giles ( ? - ? )

~ Grandson Samuel A. "Sam" Giles ~

Samuel A. "Sam" Giles (1908-1974) was born on Oct. 24, 1908 in Connellsville.

When he was 20 years of age, on Sept. 30, 1929, he married 20-year-old Elinor "Elma" Holt (1909-1990).

They produced an only daughter, Dorothy Turney.

Said the Daily Courier, Samuel "was a retired engineer in the Pennsylvania Central Railroad, a member of the Free Methodist Church of Aliquippa and a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen." In 1954, living in Pittsburgh, he signed his mother's death certificate.

He resided in Whitsett, Fayette County (1937), Pittsburgh's North Side (1945), Connellsville and at 1212 Vine Street in McKees Rocks near Pittsburgh in 1970-1974.

Samuel died in Ohio Valley Hospital at the age of 65 on Nov. 6, 1974. Rev. Charles Little led the funeral service, with burial in Mount Olive Cemetery.

Elma survived him by 16 years. She joined him in death in 1990.

Daughter Dorothy Giles ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). On Nov. 15, 1963, in nuptials held in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church of McKees Rocks near Pittsburgh, she married a distant cousin, Merle Robert Turney (Dec. 3, 1939-1965). Merle was the son of Robert and Carrie Mae Turney of the family of Daniel and Martha (Leonard) Turney of Connellsville. Rev. James S. Dittmar officiated at the wedding, which was announced in the Connellsville Daily Courier, and included her photograph portrait. Merle was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, having trained at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX. At the time of marriage, Merle was employed in Cleveland by Ford Motor Company, and the newlyweds established their home there. They were the parents of one son, James Richard Turney. Tragically, on the fateful night of March 19, 1965, while driving on the Ohio Turnpike near Berea, Merle at age 25 was badly injured in a two-car crash. He was rushed to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The Daily Courier printed an account of the accident. The body was eturned to Fayette County for the funeral, led by Rev. William Beal, and burial in Mount Olive Cemetery. Dorothy then relocated back to Connellsville and lived with her parents in 1974.

• Grandson James Richard Turney

~ Granddaughter Mabel (Giles) Rosenbloom ~

Daughter Mabel Giles (1916- ? ) was born on April 16, 1916 in Connellsville.

She first married William Rosenbloom ( ? - ? ) Sometimes the name was referred to as Roseblossom and Rose Blossom.

Later, she wedded George Robinson ( ? - ? ).

At some point, Mabel adopted a son, Donnie.

She lived in Ambridge, Beaver County, PA, circa 1936 and in South Heights at Aliquippa in 1945-1952. She is known to have been in Ambridge, Beaver County in 1970-1974. 

She worked for many years in the dietician's office of Sewickley Valley Hospital near Pittsburgh.

Her final fate has faded from view.