Obituaries
October 30, 2019

Rosita ‘Chicky’ Nega

By obits

Rosita “Chicky” Nega yielded up her spirit on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019. Chicky was a lifelong resident of the Mon Valley, having lived most recently in Belle Vernon (Seldom Seen) and previously in Charleroi and Rostraver. She became unexpectedly ill in early October and passed away on her own terms, surrounded by love. She had just enjoyed a summer of travel and festivities, most recently celebrating her 69th birthday on Sept. 14 with friends and family. Chicky was born the daughter of the late Camillo and Rosita Pesi Fantini. She often recalled stories of growing up with her sister, brother and many cousins, immersed in a proud Italian heritage. From childhood and throughout her entire life, Chicky had a way of fostering friendships and bringing laughter wherever she went. It can be said that Chicky “never met a stranger,” and was always greeted with hugs and excitement. She worked as a phlebotomist at LabCorp in Charleroi for many years and was loved by her patients as well. She was known for her wonderful cooking, storytelling, beautiful blue eyes, joyful laugh, creativity, thoughtfulness and bringing out the best in those around her. She is survived by her daughters, Allison Barajas and Katherine Nega; beloved grandchildren, Karolina, Elias, and Mario Barajas Jr.; sister, Amelia Solobay; brother and sister-in-law, John and Judy Fantini; sister-in-law, Joy Gazi; nieces, Ashley and Aria Clawson and Tracey, Dena, Kayla, Sydney and Giana Fantini; nephews, Jeffrey, Jason, Joshua, Jonathan, Riley and Luca Fantini, son-in-law, Mario Barajas Sr.; mother-in-law, Mary Nega; nephew, Scott Clawson; many cousins and loved ones of the Fantini, Nega and Cocciolone families; and in bittersweet hearts of her countless friends who she leaves behind to remember her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas W. Nega Jr.; father-in-law, Thomas W. Nega Sr.; and her precious nephew, Marco Fantini. “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. Her children stand and bless her.” Proverbs 31:25-31. Friends will be received 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019 (All Souls Day) at FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY INC., 700 Broad Ave., Belle Vernon. 724-929-5300 www.FergusonFuneralHomeAndCrematory.com. A memorial blessing service will begin at 11 a.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. Michael Crookston, pastor of St. Sebastian Roman Catholic Church, officiating. All are then welcome to process from the funeral home to the Mausoleum Chapel in Belle Vernon Cemetery for a brief committal service and dove release. At 12:30 p.m., a celebration luncheon will be held at Felicia’s Restaurant, located at 450 E. Schoonmaker Ave., Monessen.

Donora honors Senko on 9/11 anniversary
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
September 12, 2026
The borough native was killed on Sept. 11, 2001, when a plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Twenty-five years ago, students walked into Ringgold High School on a beautiful Se...
Charleroi Area High School homecoming royalty
Latest News, Main
September 12, 2026
Crosby Hatalowich and Vanessa Gray are Charleroi Area’s homecoming king and queen. Jenn Codeluppi / Mon Valley Independent
Washington County holds groundbreaking ceremony for new Public Safety Building
Latest News, Main
September 12, 2026
The $41M project is slated for completion in 2028. By the MVI Construction will soon begin on a new Washington County public safety building after a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of the $4...
McKeesport Area hires new solicitor in 5-3 vote
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
By MICHAEL VINSICK mvinsick@yourmvi.com 
September 12, 2026
The school board voted on the new law firm at a meeting this week. A new law firm is now representing the McKeesport Area School District. In a 5-3 vote Thursday, the school board voted to terminate t...
DAR chapter will dedicate Little Free Library in White Oak
Latest News, Main
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
September 12, 2026
The library will be located by the Faith Lutheran Church parking lot. The Queen Alliquippa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will dedicate a Little Free Library today in White Oak. T...