Vincent D. Ferguson (1954-2024)
Vincent D. Ferguson, known to most as Vince, died late night Monday, April 8, 2024, after a series of health struggles that required initial hospitalization in December. He was 69.
Born November 20, 1954, in Shreveport, LA, to the late Bessie M. Ferguson, Vince and the family, including his older brother and two younger sisters, eventually migrated to California and settled in Santa Monica near other relatives. After graduating from Santa Monica High School, he started his first significant career by joining the US Navy, taking him around the world with the Pacific Fleet. His most memorable deployment cruise was with the USS Enterprise (CVN-65). As he was winding down his career with the Navy, his final duty station assignment was with a ship dry-docked at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Instead of returning to California or Louisiana, he decided to settle in Pennsylvania.
After his Navy career, Vince worked in the Security industry as a Supervisor and Assistant Security Director for several different organizations around Philadelphia, including Museum Towers Apartments, 2601 Parkway Apartments and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, not knowing how all those positions would prepare him for his next significant career endeavor. After a short period as a Contract Security Patrol Officer with RAV Security Services, one fortuitous assignment with the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) began his career in Higher Education Security. He rose through the ranks at LTSP, from Patrol Officer, Corporal, Lieutenant and Acting Director before becoming Chief of Safety and Security at LTSP from 2007-2017. When LTSP merged with Gettysburg Seminary to become United Lutheran Seminary, he remained Chief of Public Safety and Security for two additional years. He had brief employments with Arcadia University and Sovereign Security before retiring in December 2022.
Vince will be remembered as a proud Navy Chief, a burgeoning blues musician, an artful storyteller, and a self-proclaimed grill master. He is survived by his wife of more than 10 years, Edrena; their 8-year old Labrador Retriever, Blackjack; and several relatives across the country. He will be missed by his family, friends, colleagues, students, professors and mentors from all phases of his life. As he was averse to funerals, Vince will be cremated and buried at sea in Oceanside, California, located between San Diego and Santa Monica, two of the many places that meant so much to him.
“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.” -John F. Kennedy
And now his watch is over.
Angel Nolberto Rodriguez, of Feltonville, passed away on April 15, 2024, at age 60. Loving father of Karina and Angel. Sadly missed by his beloved partner and companion, Adele. Sadly missed by his 7 sisters, Aida, Elba, Ade, Zenaida, Milagros, Ana, and Gloria as well as 3 brothers, Jose Juan, Gilberto, Carlos, and a host of nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing and funeral on Tuesday, April 23, from 9:30am – 11:00am at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Ave. (between Unruh & Knorr sts) There will be a prayer service starting at 11:00 am. Burial will be held at a later date.
Anne Marie Marianne Cadet, was born in Port au Prince on Sunday May 13th, 1934, to Elucie Thelusma and Eugene Cadet.
She entered a peaceful eternal rest on April 11th, 2024, at 89 years old.
Anne Marie’s life would appear short to many, but she truly lived a full and blessed life. Every one of us here today is feeling the lasting impact that she’s left in our hearts. May we fill that space with the grace that God has given us and the love that we have for each other.
Our grandma wore many hats, she was an entertainer, a charmer, a giver, a patient queen, a world-renowned chef, a loyal friend, a mediator, a doctor, a mother, a sister and most of all, THE BEST grandma.
She touched the lives of many with her kindness, grace, wisdom and unwavering love. When Anne Marie was not feeding an army, raising a village, she could be found worshiping and praying. Grandma took her relationship with God very seriously and when she prayed, she prayed with all her might for all those that she loved and those she lost.
Not a day went by that Grandma didn’t talk about her children or family. She considered them the greatest accomplishment of her life. Anne Marie is survived by her three daughters, Gladys Felix and her husband Daniel Felix, Marie Ange Pierre and Evelyn Blain. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Betianne Polycarpe, Berenice Dallard and her husband Dawens Dallard, Belinda Polycarpe and Abigaelle Auguste. Her great-grandchildren Jocelyn Leong, Daniel Felix, Skyla Felix and Damien Dallard will carry on her legacy. Her last living sister, Ginette Leroy. Her cherished loved ones Florence Pierre & family, Carline Pierre & family, Bishop Sem Celestin & family, Chantal Bourdeau & family, Mireille Greggaire & family, Carmen Nelson and family, Cemelfort’s family, Blain’s family, and Leon’s family; Her nephews and nieces and many many loving families and friends.
Our family greatly appreciates everyone who’s made the effort to join us in sending Grandma off in love and light.
Grandma joins her sisters Elucienne Cadet and Marietta Cadet and grandchildren Stephanie Auguste and Dany Felix in the peaceful rest of God.
May you rest in peace and you will be deeply missed. We all love you Grandma!
All are invited to Anne Marie’s viewing and funeral Saturday April 20th at Mount Olives Church of God (4229 Paul St., Phila., PA 19124) from 8:30am-11:00am. Burial to follow in Magnolia Cemetery.
Calos Alberto Rosario Rodríguez
Sunrise: February 11, 1965
Sunset: April 9, 2024
On Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, Carlos Alberto Rosario Rodríguez, left us at 59 years of age in his city of residence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Better known as Albert to his large, loving family, he was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and grandfather. Born in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico to parents Isabel Rodriguez and Angel Rosario, Albert was known to be adventurous from an early age. After moving to Philadelphia at 14 years old, he became passionate about sports including boxing, running, and football. He trained at Joe Frasier’s gym and went onto grow his love of boxing, but in his own words was more of “a lover than a fighter.” He was a man of deep faith and loved the Lord Jesus Christ; spreading his word to all who would be open to taking God’s love in their heart. He went on to become a talented floral designer, loving father, and caring husband. Albert was known for his huge heart and sought the light, beauty, and grace of life in all he did. He was adored by all that truly knew him and would waste no time in making a joke out of any situation just to see everyone laugh. In his last years, he was training to be an elder at his church to further his influence and profession as God’s servant. His pastor said that Albert was “muy especial y servicial.” His kind soul will always be treasured and carried on through those whose lives he has touched and will continue to do so forever more. He is survived by his wife, Ada Rosario, daughters, Jadylee Ramos and her husband Alex Ramos, Dominique Rosario, and Charlene Benner and her husband Alex Benner, his parents Angel Rosario, Isabel Rodríguez and Wilfredo Rosario, by his brothers and sisters, Angel Rosario and his wife Evelyn Rosario, Carmen Rosario, Darling Rosario and his wife Yesenia Rosario, Alma Rosario, Francisco Rosario, and Jessica Rosario, along by his grandchildren Ianeli, Zavier, Zekiel, Zylas, Penelope, and many nephews and nieces. We will always love you! Rest in Peace and Power! All are invited to Carlos’ viewing and funeral Friday April 19th at Holy Innocents Parish (1337 E. Hunting Park Ave. Phila., PA 19124) from 10:00am-11:00am. There will be a funeral mass at 11:00am. Burial to follow in Forest Hills Cemetery.
Gerald F. Murphy, age 82, died surrounded by his loving family, on April 11, 2024. Survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara (nee Zolkiewicz), and his daughters, Mary Rose McCaw (James), Linda McCarry (Michael), Susan (John Rosinski), and Amy Pohl (Eric). Pop was adored by his 9 grandchildren, Michele Reed (Matthew), Paul Hennessy, Michael McCarry (Jacqueline), Katelyn McCaw (Tyler), Sarah Lynch (Patrick), Emily McCaw, Ian McCaw, EJ Pohl & Owen Pohl, and 4 great-grandchildren Travis, Hannah, Dorothy and Grace. Jerry worked for the Philadelphia Newspapers for 47 years and was a longtime member of the A.O.H. 87. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed coordinating golf trips for his friends and family for over 30 years. Jerry enjoyed lounging in his pool, summers at the shore and was a sweets connoisseur. His true joy in life was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was so very proud of all of them. All are invited to gather for a visitation and funeral at Christ the King Church 3252 Chesterfield Rd on Tuesday, April 16th, from 9:00am to 11:00am followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00am. (more…)
Mary Aigler, age 65, originally from Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, after almost a year long battle with brain cancer. Mary was born on August 17 to Ukrainian immigrants, Dmytro and Anna Nessen. She was a graduate of Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1976 and received her Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Hahnemann University in 1984. A nurse up until the very end, she was always caring for other people. A devout Ukrainian Orthodox, she often attended services with her community who loved her dearly at the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. Always the one with a book in hand and to be quick with a witty joke, Mary will be remembered for her humor (sometimes inappropriate) and kind soul. Mary is survived by her daughter Rachel (Corey) Clark, brother Michael (Regina) Nessen, and sister Irene (John) Zehmisch. All are invited to Mary’s viewing and funeral, Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at St. Stephen Orthodox Cathedral (8598 Verree Road Philadelphia, PA 19111) from 9:30am-10:30am. Funeral service will start at 10:30am. Burial to follow in Hatboro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Brain Tumor Association or The Ukrainian Red Cross.
Joshua Eckert, of Bensalem PA, sadly passed away April 8, 2024, at the age of 47. Son of the late John and Ramona Eckert “Sue.” Loving father of Joshua Eckert (Dee Dee), Haley Eckert (Kyle), Sean Eckert and Johnny Ludwig. Best friend of 22 years to Cristine Ludwig. Cherished poppy to Addilynn and Bryson. A celebration of life will be held privately by his family at a later date.
Grace Ferrara, of Philadelphia, PA, sadly passed away April 10, 2024, at the age of 84. Aunt of Dominic Ferrara, Ronald Ferrara, Joseph Ferrara, Grace Ratschof, Beverly Ferrara, Janet Krammerer, Denise Ryan, Alex Ferrara, Michael Ferrara, Anthony Ferrara, Glen Ferrara, Greg Ferrara and Cindy Ferrara. She is also survived by her great-nieces and nephews, her sister-in-law, Rosemary, as well as her good friend Barbara Slowinski.
Stephen James Meskill, 64 of Philadelphia, Pa passed away Saturday, April 6, 2024, surrounded by his children. Stephen affectionately known to his children as “Stevie G” was born July 7, 1959, to the late Margaret (nee Collier) and Joseph Meskill. Stephen attended George Washington High School and Lincoln Technical Institute and was a former employee of CTDI.
Stephen who was always quick with a joke, loved to fish and loved the wilderness, he was a history buff and enjoyed watching cartoons. A lifelong Philadelphia resident, Stephen was a die-hard Philly sports fan with a special place in his heart for the Eagles. Stephen’s greatest love however, was his granddaughter who he loved to spend time with, whether it was going to soccer games, going on adventures, or playing Barbies, Stephen was always happiest when he was with Jolee.
Stephen was married for 37 years to the late Patricia Meskill (nee Dahms) and is survived by his three children, Lorenea (Joseph), Vincent, and Gannon, his siblings Joseph Jr. (Michelle), Audrey (Mark), Teresa, Regina (Stephen), Christine (the late Ernest Bock Jr.), many nieces and nephews, and most importantly his granddaughter Jolee. Stephen was preceded in death by the late David Meskill (Geraldine).
All are invited to Stephen’s viewing and funeral Friday April 12th at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19135 (between Unruh & Knorr Sts.) from 9:30am-11:00am. There will be a words of remembrance service in the funeral home at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The American Cancer Society, in his name.
Amour Koppe, who emigrated from Ivory Coast, West Africa, passed shortly after arriving in the United States, on March 28, 2024, at age 39. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, April 9 at 1:30 pm in Resurrection Cemetery (5201 Hulmeville Rd. Bensalem, PA)
On Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, Elise F. Bastian, passed away peacefully. Wife of the late Charles Bastian Sr.; Sister of the late Ferdinand Ware, and Rosemary; Beloved mother of Charles Bastian, Jr. (Margaret), Doris Rhein, as well as the late Sue A. Golin (Gerard) and Frank Jr. She was loved by 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing and funeral on Thursday, April 11th at St. Timothy R.C. Church (3001 Levick Street, Phila., PA 19149-3135) from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM followed by a 10:00 AM funeral mass. Burial to follow in Sunset Memorial Park.
Joan Herb, longtime resident of Tannersville, PA, formerly of Philadelphia, passed away on April 3rd, 2024, at age 86. Joan was a great person, loved and respected by many who thought of her as their mother. Affectionally known as “Aunt Joan” to everyone in Tannersville, she will be lovingly missed by all who knew her. Beloved wife of the late, Thomas Herb. Loving mother of Linda Gordon (Thomas), Brian Herb, the late Thomas “Bud” Herb, Joan Schneider, and William Herb. Devoted Mom Mom of Thomas Gordon, Jason Herb, Lisa Herb, Joseph Schneider, Jeffrey Schneider, James Schneider, and the late Michael Herb. Sadly missed by many great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her two siblings, Elizabeth Rodgers, and Claire Rudolph. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Family and friends are invited to attend her visitation and funeral on Tuesday, April 9, at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Ave. (between Unruh & Knorr sts) You may visit and comfort Joan’s family during the visitation from 9:30 am – 11:00 am in the funeral home. There will be a prayer service at 11:00 am. Burial will be held at a later date in Magnolia Cemetery.
Candace Diane Cain “Candy Cain” of the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, passed away on March 26, 2024, at age 63. Loving mother of Daryl Clegg, Candace Clegg, and Shane Clegg. Devoted grandmother of Nicholas, Cash, and Vada. Candace was a resilient single mother who was a breast cancer survivor. Family and friends are invited to attend her visitation and funeral on Wednesday, April 10 at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Ave. (between Unruh & Knorr sts) You may visit and comfort Candace’s family from 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm in the funeral home. A eulogy service will begin at 2:30 pm. Further arrangements will be held in private by her family.
Michael T. McGerry, age 77, passed away on March 31, 2024. Beloved husband of the late Mary K. McGerry. Loving father of Michael McGerry (Jeanne), Maureen McGerry, Kevin McGerry (Nicole) and Sean McGerry. Devoted Pop Pop of Michael, Thomas, Kevin, Joey, Katy, and Kyle. Sadly missed by many loving nieces and nephews. Michael was a US Navy veteran, who proudly served his country in Vietnam, was a Purple Heart recipient, North Catholic HS Alum, class of 1965, and retired sheet metal worker, Local #19, where he worked for 30 years. Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing and funeral on Thursday, April 4, from 9:15 am – 11:00 am in St. Jerome RC Church, (8100 Colfax St. Phila., Pa 19136) There will be a funeral mass at 11:00 am with burial to follow in Our Lady of Grace Cemetery. Please omit flowers and kindly make donations in Michael’s memory to North Catholic Alumni Association PO Box 7005, Philadelphia, PA 19149. or Click Here
Michael Salvitti, of Philadelphia, PA, sadly passed away on March 19, 2024, at the age of 71. Michael was a graduate of Penn State University. He bravely fought a brain aneurysm and survived. He was a devoted Phillies and Eagles fan and he will always be remembered for being the life of the party. Loving husband of Pam. Beloved father of Jessica Salvitti (George Senderling), Dakota, Ryan, and Shane. Cherished grandfather of Avalee Senderling. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins. All are welcome to celebrate Michael’s life at his memorial service on Saturday, April 20th at Lawndale Baptist Church (6433 Lawndale Ave. Phila., PA 19111) at 1:00 pm.
Richard Kenneth Mackowsky, 86, of Philadelphia passed away Tuesday, March 26, 2024. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years Mildred (83). Born August 22, 1937, in Philadelphia, Richard was the son of the late Henry Mackowsky and Marie Myers. Richard grew up in Philadelphia and graduated from Bok High School. He worked as a jeweler for 30 years, then retired as a machinist. Richard’s smile lit up the room and was cherished by all family and friends. His sense of humor added laughter to everyone’s day and is one of many personality traits that he passed on to his children. His wife, Millie, was the most important person in his life. They met in an elevator in which Millie was the elevator operator, and it was love at first sight – they married within 2 months. Together they raised a loving family and created beautiful and lasting memories. Richard had many interests and joys in life – his family being his highest priority. Holidays and family get-togethers were the most loved and anticipated occasions. He was also a dedicated Philly sports fan, with the Phillies and Eagles as his favorites – he hadn’t missed a Phillies game broadcast, TV or Radio, in decades. Richard also enjoyed gardening, as well as collecting scale model cars, of which he owned over 500. He also had an extensive coin and stamp collection. Although time forced him to stop riding, he always had a passion for motorcycles. Richard was preceded in death by his son Daniel. Survivors include four children – Debra, Thomas, Richard (Nancy), and Donna; six grandchildren – Brandan (Keri), Taylor, Tiffany, Daniel (Gabrielle), Emma, and Evan: and five great-grandchildren – Shawn, Breanna, Jackson, Ayden, and Macy. Instead of a service, the family has decided to honor his memory in a private gathering.
John Patrick Walker, of Philadelphia, PA, suddenly passed away, March 29, 2024, at the age of 59. Son of Jack Walker and the late Patricia Walker. Loving father of Felyshia Walker, Chrystal Suarez, Jeffrey Walker (Deborah) and the late Jessica Lee Walker. Cherished pop of 10 grandchildren. Brother of Franny and Vinny. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. All are invited to John’s viewing and funeral Friday April 5th at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19135 (between Unruh & Knorr Sts.) from 9:30am-11:00am. There will be a prayer service in the funeral home at 11:00am.
John William Newbert, of the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, sadly passed away March 29, 2024, at the age of 85. John was a dedicated Philadelphia police officer for over 20 years. He was a United States Army Veteran, who proudly served his country. Loving father of John Newbert Jr. (Maryann), Michael Newbert (Stephanie), Kevin Newbert (Lori) and Joseph Newbert (Mary Kay). Beloved PoPop of Jaclynn, Michelle, Michael Jr., Rachel, Lindsey, Kevin, Ryan, Julia, Nicholas and James. Great-grandfather of Kinsley, Anthony, Jackson and Sophia. Brother of Carol, Patricia and Linda. Longtime companion of 35 years to Donna. Former spouse of Nancy. All are invited to John’s visitation and memorial on Monday April 8th at St. Timothy’s R.C. Church. (3001 Levick St. Phila., PA 19149) You may visit and comfort the Newbert family in church from 9:00am-10:30am. There will be a funeral mass to follow starting at 10:30am.
In the early afternoon of Sunday, March 24, 2024, Anthony Edward Daddario, passed away at the age of eighty-one in Philadelphia, PA, where he had lived since the 1980s. A native of Hartford, CT, “Ed” had also lived in Rome, Italy, first as a child and later as a young man with his now ex-partner, Barbara, and their three children. He was an avid reader, a fan of writers such as Henry Miller and Robert Heinlein; a lover of jazz and rock music and film; an amateur guitarist and writer; a lover of food and wine, especially Italian; and had a gift for making complicated things sound simple and obvious. In his late teens he began to suffer from schizophrenia. As an adult he spent decades working with a dedicated psychiatrist learning to control and live with its various effects. The hard work paid off: Newly strengthened relationships with two of his now-grown children included many shared dinners and wine bottles over the years. He is survived by his three children, Susan, Sibyl, and Parker; his brother Richard; and Barbara. A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 1, 2024 from 10:00am-11:00am at McCafferty Funeral Home at 6711 Frankford Ave, (between Unruh and Knorr Sts.) in Philadelphia. There will be a prayer service in the funeral home at 11:00am. No flowers, please. Instead Ed’s family asks that those who are able make a donation to the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance, an organization “solving foundational problems that create barriers to treatment, support and survival for people living with schizophrenia and those who care for them,” by fighting discrimination and stigma, advocating for equal access to care, advancing best-practice treatment, and “empowering our community with knowledge, skills and support.” Please donate at https://sczaction.org/donate/
Gloria Troppello, of the Wissinoming section of Philadelphia, sadly passed away March 26, 2024, at the age of 62. Daughter of the late Anthony and Marie Troppello. Loving mother of Charles Platt (Melissa). Beloved G-Mom of Nicholas, Alexander Platt and the late Ariel Platt. Cherished sister of Tina Szrankowski (Chip) and Anthony Troppello (Kathy). She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Shannon (Mike), Alyssa (Andrew), Kathy, Tony, Micky (Nicole), Brenna, Jessica (Anthony), as well as her great-niece and nephews, Madi, Michael and Nathan. She will be lovingly missed by her best friend and chosen sister, Michelle and her chosen nephew, Kevin. Gloria’s family will be holding a memorial for her at Melissa and Charles’ home on Saturday April 6th at 2:00pm. Please contact her family for more information. If you do not have Melissa or Charles’ contact information, you may contact our funeral home. The family kindly asks that you wear red and white attire in honor of Gloria and her love for the Philadelphia Phillies. Thank you.