Kathleen Swade Mappas

KATHLEEN SWADE MAPPAS, 84, of Monessen, passed peacefully in her sleep on May 24, 2025. Born on October 22, 1940 at her home on Rebecca Street, she was the youngest daughter of the late George Charles & Mary Pauline (Creevy) Swade. The wife of the late Nicholas M. Mappas, Kathleen was proceeded in death by her sisters Patricia Swade Kovach and Rosemary Swade Titler, brothers John "Jack" Swade and George F. Swade. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. Kathleen was a proud1958 graduate of Monessen High School and continued her education at the University of Pittsburgh and California State College of Pennsylvania, where she received her Teaching Degree. She enjoyed substitute teaching at Monessen High School and other school districts as well. "Mrs. Mappas" could be seen regularly at the Greyhound football and basketball games where students would cheer along with her and husband Nick and their big circle of booster friends, usually meeting afterwards at one of their favorite restaurants. Her natural ability to mingle with people was her greatest asset and always had a piece of family history and an interesting story to share. Her bright, loving smile and vibrant personality usually led way to a conversation with her asking "Hello my dear, how are you". Her genuine and sincere interest in family and society issues enabled her to bridge the gap between people of all ages. Her volunteerism and dedication to improve the quality of education and ability to manage projects to "get things done" was an important part of her life. Active in several organizations, Kathleen served on the Board of Directors for the Monessen School District and was a founding member of "The Friends of the Library". She also belonged to several social and community organizations including the Greyhound Boosters, F.C.S.L.A. Branch 88, and the Monessen Historical Society. She was a member of The Epiphany of Our Lord Parish, and Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, both in Monessen. She is survived by nephew Ron Kovach and wife Beth Ann of Charleroi, sister-in-law Judy (George) Swade of Torrance, CA and numerous nieces and nephews scattered throughout the United States. "Aunt Kathy", "Auntie" and "AK" will be missed by all, including her six "fur babies" and special friends Denise Spark, Jenny Poroda, Lisa DeZardo and niece Jaclyn Sedlak, who supported her daily in her quest to remain independent at home. Sincere thanks to the nursing staff at Mon Valley Care Center and Grandview Estates, for providing an exemplary level of care, including niece Danielle Skrypak and staff at OSPTA Hospice for helping us navigate her journey. Also, an extension of gratitude to her "special nieces" Cheryl and Patty Swade (CA), Lavonne (Checco) Rosales (AZ) and Cindy (Checco) Popelas, for phone calls, gifts and cards of support. Per Kathleen's wishes, there will be no public viewing. The arrangements have been entrusted to the Dalfonso-Billick Funeral Home Inc. and Cremation Services, 441 Reed Avenue, Monessen. A mass of Christian burial will take place on Saturday, June 7th beginning at 9:30 am at The Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 44 Pennyslvania Blvd., Monessen, interment will follow in Holy Name Cemetery. Condolences are being accepted for the family at www.dalfonso-billick.com.