Gloria A. DeStefano, 67, of Monessen, passed away on June 29, 2021, in UPMC Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh. She was born in North Charleroi on Dec. 12, 1953, to Benjamin and Edith Marten Nichols and was a graduate of Monessen High School. Gloria worked as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. She was a member of the Monessen Volunteer Fire Department No. 2, serving as a firefighter and first responder. She was elected as the first female secretary, treasurer and president. Gloria was part owner of Kang’s Black Belt Academy, where she taught martial arts. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Monongahela, serving as deacon, worship leader and where she hosted many fundraising activities. Gloria traveled to Lima, Peru, on four separate Christian mission trips. Gloria is survived by her loving sister and brother, Alice (Alan) McElfresh of Donora and Carl (Kathleen) Nichols of Monessen. Gloria is also survived by her furry friends, Gentle Ben and Fara. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by sister, Eileen Nichols; brother, Benjamin Nichols Jr.; sister, Patty Stout; brother, Charles Nichols; sister, Shirley Kudlik; brother, John “JT” Nichols; and sister, Bernadette Keegan. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, July 10, at First Christian Church, 630 Chess St., Monongahela, with the Rev. Janet Scott-Mace, officiating. The ROBERT A. BILLICK FUNERAL HOME INC. Monessen, Pa. has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences can be given at www.billicksfuneralhome.com.
