Velma L. Benedict Merusi, 101, of Monongahela, passed away on May 19, 2023, at Bethlen Home Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Ligonier. She was born in New Eagle on Feb. 8, 1922, daughter of Joseph and Marie Lombardi Benedict. Following her graduation from Monongahela High School in 1938, Velma worked as an administrative assistant for the Hussey Co. in Pittsburgh. After getting married and beginning to raise her family, she left the Hussey Co. to become a full-time homemaker. In her younger years, she enjoyed being a den mother to her son and his friends and creating beautiful ceramics. She was an awesome baker, candy maker and cook. A member of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Monongahela, she is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth J. and Joy Jenko Merusi of Ligonier; and several loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Merusi Jr.; sister, Norma (Sam) Ross; sister-in-law, Elva (Frank) Smith; and brother-in-law, Orlando “Doc” (Angel) Merusi. Friends and family will be received from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, 722 W. Main St., Monongahela, with a Mass of Christian burial beginning at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery. MARSHALL MARRA FUNERAL HOME, 216 Chess St., Monongahela, 724-258-6767, is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be made online at marshallmarrafuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethlen Hospice, 135 Kalassay Dr., Ligonier, PA 15658.
