John S. Gira Jr. – Belle Vernon

John S. Gira Jr., 86, of Belle Vernon, Washington Township, passed away Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, at his home. Born Aug. 19, 1932, in Monessen, he was the son of John S. and Mary Sramko Gira. A resident of Belle Vernon for the past 62 years, Mr. Gira Jr. was a member of St. Sebastian Roman Catholic Church and was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Army. John was retired from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel, where he worked as a rigger, and was later employed by the BVA School District in its maintenance department. He was a member of Belle Vernon American Legion Post 659, Naomi Athletic Club and enjoyed spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Beth” Hesson Gira, to whom he was married 66 years; two sons and daughters-in-law, John S. Gira III and wife Mary of Belle Vernon, Mark and Becky Gira of Perryopolis; daughter, Lisa Malley of Munhall; seven grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Andy Gira, George Gira; and an infant sister baby, Gira. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at Parzynski Funeral Home & Cremations, family owned and operated, 626 Broad Ave., Belle Vernon, 724-929-6183. Prayers of Transfer will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday in the funeral home, followed by a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at St. Sebastian R.C. Church with the Rev. Elmer Alforque as celebrant. Interment will take place in Belle Vernon Cemetery. Belle Vernon Legion Post 659 will conduct a service at 7 p.m. Monday in the funeral home. Condolences accepted at the funeral home’s website, www.parzynskifuneralhome.com.