Obituaries
February 14, 2023

James Morakis – McKeesport

By obits

 

James Morakis, 89, of McKeesport, died on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023. He was born in McKeesport on July 16, 1933 and is the son of the late Alexandros and Marianthi Mikedati Morakis. James proudly served in the United States Army and later was employed as a machinist at U.S. Steel. He was a member of the Annunciation of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church of White Oak, the General Smedley D. Butler Post 701, White Oak American Legion, and the Renzie Seniors. He is survived by his siblings, Nicholas Morakis of McKeesport; George (Mary Lou) Morakis of North Huntingdon; and Kiki Morakis of McKeesport. James is also survived by nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-great-nephews. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Smara and George Mermigas. Family and friends may gather at the Annunciation of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church, 1128 Summit St., White Oak, PA 15131, on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at McKeesport and Versailles Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by STRIFFLERS OF WHITE OAK CREMATION AND MORTUARY SERVICES INC., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177). To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com.

Charleroi glassmaking memories buried in time capsule
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
December 2, 2025
Former Corelle workers were joined by public officials for an emotional ceremony in Charleroi. Charleroi stood in the cold Monday in Meadow Avenue Park to say goodbye to the plant that shaped its peop...
Kennel contract renewed despite public objections
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
The new agreement with Hoffman Kennels will run for one year. Elizabeth Township commissioners renewed a contract with Hoffman Kennels for one year for deer removal and dog control services despite so...
Season’s first big snowfall hits Mon Valley, western Pa.
Latest News, Main
By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
The worst part of the storm is forecast for today’s morning commute. The first big snowfall of the season hit Western Pennsylvania on Tuesday morning, coating the ground and roadways. Speed limits hav...
Elizabeth Twp. hydrant replaced after failing during fire
Latest News, Main
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
Pennsylvania American Water installed the new hydrant Monday and submitted the broken one to the manufacturer. Pennsylvania American Water has replaced a fire hydrant on Dillon Road in Elizabeth Towns...
Annual McKeesport Festival of Trees opens Thursday
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
December 2, 2025
The long-running holiday celebration will feature dozens of decorated trees. By the MVI Renziehausen Park’s Jacob Woll Pavilion will be converted into a village of Christmas trees this week, which is ...
Two-vehicle crash in Charleroi
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
December 2, 2025
Charleroi Fire Department responded Monday night to a collision involving two cars at Fifth and Washington Avenue in Charleroi. Charleroi FIre Department