Minerd.com Biography of Clyde Elzie and Mary Ellen (Minerd) Rodeheaver of Keister, PA

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Mary Ellen (Minerd) Rodeheaver
(1888-1949)

Mary Rodeheaver

Mary Ellen (Minerd) Rodeheaver was born on March 28, 1888 in Leisenring/Lemont Furnace, near Uniontown, Fayette County, PA, the daughter of James Calvin and Suvina (Yauger) Minerd Sr. One of her sons gave his life for our nation during World War II.

Mary married Clyde Elzie Rodeheaver (1884-1965), son of Cornelius and Minnie Rodeheaver of Preston County, WV. The ceremony was held at her parents' home on Feb. 10, 1907, when she was age 19, and he 23. Officiating was Mary's cousin, Rev. David Ewing Minerd, the famed "Blacksmith Preacher" of Fayette County.

The couple produced a family of 10 children -- James Robert Rodeheaver, Cevilla Irene Wahler, Charles Raymond Rodeheaver, Benton Edward Rodeheaver, Clyde H. Rodeheaver, Mary Lucinda Gray, Harold "Frank" Rodeheaver, Homer Cornelius Rodeheaver, LeRoy Rodehaver and Carrie Rodeheaver.

Sadly, baby daughter Carrie came down with a fatal case of whooping cough in the winter of 1924. She died at age 29 days on Jan. 16, 1921. Her remains were placed at rest in Pleasant View Cemetery.

Elzie was a pumper in the coal mines of Fayette County, making his home in Mt. Braddock the year of marriage. In the same year they were wed, they moved to the coal mining town of Keisterville, Fayette County. They resided there for many years in house number 36. The Rodeheavers were members of the Pleasant View Presbyterian Church at Smock.

Miners in the famed "Connellsville Coal Seam"

Mary in older years

In an unfortunate incident, son Homer lost an eye at age three or four when he was accidentally shot by a gun.

Mary enjoyed visiting with her many adult sisters and brothers over the years. These social gatherings were important in the ongoing life of the family.

When the federal census was enumerated in 1930, the Rodehavers made their home in Keisterville, Menallen Township, and lived next door to Mary's married sister and family, Stella and Clinton Hager.

U.S. Census records for 1940 show the family in Menallen, with six children still in the household, ranging in age from 23 to 13. Clyde and their sons Clyde and Benton all worked as laborers in the local coal mine.

For her 60th birthday in March 1948, Mary's children threw her a surprise party. Daughters Cerilla and Lucinda presented her with a corsage and table flower arrangements, while sons Charles, Clyde, Homer and Leroy gave her a large birthday cake, followed by a covered dish dinner. Among the guests, reported the Uniontown Morning Herald, were her siblings James and Jenny Darby, Clinton and Stella Hager, Homer and Blanche McCabe, James Calvin Minerd Jr., Charles McDowell, Hattie Dettling, Harry C. Minerd and many other friends and relatives.

Above, L-R: Mary and sisters Hattie Dettling, Stella Hager and Blanche McCabe. Below: the sisters Stella, Blanche, Mary and Hattie and their husbands.

Uniontown Morning Herald, 1949

Mary suffered toward the end of her life with hardening of the arteries and chronic heart disease. Sadly, she was stricken by a heart attack and died 20 minutes later at home in Keisterville at the age of 61 on Nov. 30, 1949. At the time, said the Morning Herald, she was survived by a dozen grandchildren. She was buried at LaFayette Memorial Park.

Elzie spent his remaining life in Keisterville. For many years, on the anniversary of Mary's death, he published a memorial poem advertisement in the Morning Herald.

The census enumeration of 1950 shows him heading a residence with his adult children Lucinda, Homer and Leroy.

In May 1967, he is known to have attended the 40th wedding anniversary party for his son and daughter in law, James and Helen Rodeheaver.

He died on March 23, 1969. For some years after that, his daughter placed classified advertising on the anniversary his death, expressing her sadness with a poem.

~ Son James Robert Rodeheaver ~

Son James Robert Rodeheaver (1907-1978) was born on May 24, 1907.

Just a few days before his 20th birthday, on May 20, 1927, he was united in marriage with 18-year-old Helen Boone (July 23, 1909-1968). She was the daughter of George Flemming and Marie (Morris) Boone and a native of Adelaide, Fayette County.

The Rodeheavers spent four decades living in Bitner, Fayette County.

They together bore 10 children -- Catherine Griffith, Carl Rodeheaver, Dolores Warman, Mary Elizabeth Rodeheaver, Gloria Thompson, James Rodeheaver, Ruth Ann Rodeheaver, Ella Jean Brown, Harry Rodeheaver and Harold Rodeheaver.

Sadly, daughter Mary Elizabeth caught a case of the measles in infancy and died on May 27, 1932, at the age of seven months and nine days. Her tender remains were placed into rest in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Smock.

Helen was afflicted with a serious kidney infection known as "pyelonephritis." She passed away in Uniontown Hospital on Nov. 15, 1968. Interment was in the Cochran Cemetery in Dawson. Her obituary in the Uniontown Morning Herald noted that her survivors included 21 grandchildren as well as her sister Elizabeth Niece and Albert Boone.

James survived her by a decade. He died in November 1978.

Daughter Catherine Marie Rodeheaver (1928-1980) was born on April 16, 1928 in Bitner, Fayette County. On Sept. 4, 1948, when she was age 20, Catherine wed Harry Lloyd Griffith (1923-1990) of Pinkerton, Somerset County, PA. They lived in Dravosburg, near McKeesport, in the 1960s and '70s. Grief cascaded over the family at her death at the age of 52 in Dec. 1980. Her remains were lowered under the sod of Cochran Cemetery in Dawson. Harry survived his bride by nearly a decade. He passed into the arms of the angelic host on March 1, 1990.

Son Carl Robert Rodeheaver Sr. (1929-1977) was born on Jan. 14, 1929 in Bitner, Fayette County. He tied the knot with Adeline Murillo (March 19, 1931-2020), originally from McKeesport near Pittsburgh, and the daughter of Ernest and Elizabeth Murillo. The couple produced seven children -- Patty Jean Meyers, Mary Ann Rodeheaver, Carl Robert Rodeheaver Jr., James Ernest Rodeheaver, Jerry Lee Rodeheaver, Richard F. Rodeheaver and Donald Rodeheaver. They made their home in Columbia Station, OH in 1968 and Berea, OH in 1977. Sadness blanketed the family when, at age 48, Carl passed away on Aug. 11, 1977 in Columbia Station. The Cleveland Press printed an obituary. He sleeps for the ages in Sunset Memorial Park in North Olmsted. Adeline lived on as a widow for more than four decades. Said an obituary, "Adeline enjoyed travelling, was very involved in her faith, and loved spending time and soaking up the grandchildren. No one could ever come between her and the grandchildren." She surrendered to the angel of death at age 89 on May 6, 2020.

Granddaughter Patty Jean Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) tied the marital cord with Gary Meyers/Myers.

Granddaughter Mary Ann Rodeheaver ( ? - ? )

Grandson Carl Robert Rodeheaver Jr. (1955-living) wed Dianne Shirley Wilson and lived in the Cleveland area.

Grandson James Ernest Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) married Jeanne Marie Hodnik.

Grandson Jerry Lee Rodeheaver (1957- ? ) was born in 1957. He was united in marriage with Sharon Lea Adams ( ? - ? ).

Grandson Richard F. Rodeheaver ( ? -2015) was born on (?). He resided in the Cleveland area. Sadly, at the age of 54, he died on Nov. 17, 2015. Interment was in Columbia Township Cemetery. His photograph accompanied his obituary in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Grandson Donald Rodeheaver ( ? - ? )

Daughter Dolores/Delores Rodeheaver (1933-1980) was born on Feb. 13, 1933. On Sept. 1, 1951, at the age of 18, she married Ralph Warman ( ? - ? ). Whether or not they reproduced is unknown. The pair made their residence in Waltersburg, Fayette County in 1963-1968 and in McKeesport, PA in 1977. Dolores died in McKeesport in July 1980.

Daughter Gloria Rodeheaver (1936-1993) was born on May 12, 1936. She was united in marriage with Duane Harry Thompson Sr. ( ? -1985), son of Clifford and Olive Thompson. The family lived in Phillipsburg, PA. Their brood of offspring were Duane Harry "Danny" Thompson Jr., Clifford Allan Thompson, Robert Thompson and Helen Thompson. By 1977, they had relocated to Cleveland. At the age of 56, Duane died in May 1985. The Cleveland Plain Dealer published an obituary. Rev. Dan Rossbach presided over the funeral rites. Gloria lived for another eight years. She succumbed to the spectre of death at the age of 57 in May 1993. Her obituary also appeared in the Plain Dealer.

Grandson Duane Harry "Danny" Thompson Jr. (1956-2005) was born in 1956 in Ohio. He was joined in wedlock with Theresa (Richardson) Hajostek. She brought two stepchildren into the second union -- Amy Hajostek and Ian Hajostek. They appear to have produced a son of their own, Jason Thompson. Duane was employed in Cleveland by G.W. Transport. Sadly, at the age of 49, Duane passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2005. The Cleveland Plain Dealer printed an obituary.

Grandson Clifford Allan Thompson (1957- ? ) was born in 1957 in Ohio.

Grandson Robert Thompson ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Helen Thompson ( ? - ? )

Son James E. Rodeheaver (1938-1990) was born on Dec. 20, 1938. He married Anthonette Eileen Grazetti ( ? - ? ). They together bore a foursome of children -- Darlene Hayes, James R. Rodeheaver, Annette Rodeheaver and Christine Ann "Chris" McCarthy. The Rodeheavers lived in Akron, OH in 1956 and later made a residence in the 1960s and '70s in Cleveland, OH. In October 1956, while on a visit home with his parents, James underwent an emergency appendectomy in Uniontown Hospital. He died on Jan. 8, 1990. His obituary appeared in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Granddaughter Darlene Rodeheaver wed Kenneth Hayes.

Grandson James R. Rodeheaver was united in matrimony with Tina.

Granddaughter Annette Rodeheaver ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Christine Ann "Chris" Rodeheaver (1968- ? ) was born in 1968. She married Gene Edmund McCarthy.

Daughter Ruth Ann Rodeheaver (1941-1977) was born on July 25, 1941 in Bitner, Fayette County. In her early 20s, she dwelled at home with her parents in the 1960s. She married Homer Lee Nickles ( ? - ? ) and relocated to Cleveland, OH. They had one daughter, Helen Marie Nickles. Sadly, at the age of 36, Ruth Ann died in Cleveland's Metropolitan General Hospital. Her remains were brought back to Fayette County for interment in the Cochran Cemetery in Dawson. An obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Her name as inscribed on her grave marker is "Rodeheaver" and not "Nickles." The fate of her husband is unknown.

Granddaughter Helen Marie Nickles (1972- ? )

Daughter Ella Jean Rodeheaver (1943-2022) was born on Oct. 9, 1943. Circa 1963, she wed Russell Robert Brown ( ? - ? ). They remained together over the ups and downs of a remarkable 58 years. The Browns lived in Cleveland in the era of the 1960s and 1970s. They produced five known children, with their first and middle names all beginning with the letter "R" -- Ryan Russell Brown, Rita Renea Colombes and Rachelle Rae Evanish. By 1999, the Browns' resided in North Royalton, OH. Said an obituary, "Ella enjoyed traveling, traversing almost every state with her husband, Russell. She would organize family reunions and holiday get-togethers, often serving her famous chicken squares. Ella loved dancing to old-time Rock-n-Roll and listening to Country favorites." Sadly, Ella died on Jan. 28, 2022. The family requested that any memorial donations be made to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank or The Salvation Army.

Grandson Russell Brown ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2022.

Grandson Robert Brown ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2022.

Grandson Ryan Russell Brown (1969- ? ) was born in 1969. He was deceased by 2022.

Granddaughter Rita Renea Brown (1968- ? ) was born in 1968. She wed (?) Colombes ( ? - ? ).

Granddaughter Rachelle Rae Brown (1976- ? ) was born in 1976. She married Chris Evanish. They are believed to be the parents of Kaleb Evanish and Morgan Evanish.

Son Harold Franklin "Baldy" Rodeheaver (1951-2024) was born on Jan. 17, 1951 in Bitner, Fayette County. Harold made his residence with his parents in the 1960s. During the Vietnam War, in 1969, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and attained the rank of lance corporal. He served until discharge in 1971. He married Denise Diana Goodwin ( ? - ? ). They became the parents of three children -- Mandy Jo Rodeheaver, Robert James Rodeheaver and Audra Marie Rodeheaver. They relocated to Cleveland, OH by 1977 and in about 1984 moved to Burbank, OH, where they spent their remaining 40 years together. Said an obituary, " Baldy was a self-employed truck driver for 38 years and was a member of Disable American Veterans. He could fix anything and everything, He loved his motorcycles and was a mentor to many area kids that he took into his home." Among the "many area kids" whom he "embraced like his own" were named in his obituary -- Zac, Joe, Wayne, Kari, Tom, Buck, April, Paul, Lisa, Justin, Jerry, Jamie, Angie, and Shawn. After a long decline in health, Harold died at home at the age of 73 on Feb. 28, 2024. Burial was in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

Grandson Robert James Rodeheaver (1976- ? ) was born in 1976. He married Teresa and relocated to Anchorage, AK.

Granddaughter Mandy Jo Rodeheaver (1977- ? ) was born in 1977. She tied the knot with Tony Lugo. One known offspring is Yesenia Lugo. The family settled in Collinsville, OK.

Granddaughter Audra Marie Rodeheaver (1978- ? ) was born in 1978. She wed Kasper Holmes. Their two daughteers are believe to be Audrianna Holmes and Kassidy Holmes. They also relocated to Oklahoma and put down roots in Collinsville, OK.

Son Harry B. Rodeheaver (1948-1999) was born on June 18, 1948. He resided at home in 1968. Harry married Ruth Ann Patterson ( ? - ? ). The couple did not reproduce. By 1977, they moved to Cleveland, followed by a relocation to West Salem, OH. He was employed in Cleveland by Acme Paper Company. Sadly, at the age of 51, he died on Dec. 4, 1999 as a patient in Barberton Citizens Hospital. An obituary was published in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

~ Son Charles Raymond Rodeheaver ~

Son Charles Raymond Rodeheaver (1915-1987) was born in 1915 in Fayette County, PA.

He stood 5 feet, 11 inches tall in young manhood and weighed 186 lbs. On Jan. 30, 1939, at the age of 24, he was united in wedlock with 22-year-old Myrtle Wallace (Sept. 6, 1916-2002), daughter of James and Nancy (Sickles) Wallace of Forward Township, Allegheny County.

The Frick Coke plant at Filbert

Charles was a coal miner by occupation. They lived in the mining communities of Keisterville and Dearth Fayette County (1940-1942), sharing a residence with Myrtle's widowed father. As of 1940, his employer was H.C. Frick Coke Company at its plant at Filbert. By 1948, they relocated to Dayton, Montgomery County, OH. The pair returned to Uniontown by 1950, with Charles now employed as a motorman in the mine. They made their residence at 76 Park Avenue in the city.

They bore two known children together, Marlene Alexander and Charles Franklin Rodeheaver.

Myrtle and her sister in law Cevilla Wahler often traveled to Pittsburgh to attend live musical and theatre performances. Among these was seeing the Ice Capades in 1965 and 1966, and also the Robert Goulet Revue at Pittsburgh's Civic Arena in 1966. In October 1969, Myrtle and Cevilla traveled to Baltimore to visit with Myrtle's married son and daughter, and then drove to Washington, DC, where they visited the grave of President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery.

Sadly, Charles surrendered to the angel of death in 1987. His remains sleep for the ages in Lafayette Memorial Park.

Myrtle survived her husband by 15 years and remained in Uniontown. Death swept her away on Jan. 30, 2002.

Daughter Marlene Grace Rodeheaver (1939-2022) was born on May 13, 1939 in Keisterville, Fayette County. She was a 1957 graduate of Uniontown High School. On May 17, 1958, at the age of 19, she tied the marital cord with Walter Alexander ( ? - ? ). The couple remained together over an extraordinary 62 years. One daughter born into this family was Luann Kirchner. They lived in the Fallston community near Baltimore, MD. Said an obituary of Marlene, "Among her favorite pastimes included reading, crossword puzzles, and conversing with family and friends. She was her happiest when spending time with her family." Sadly, Marlene passed away at the age of 83 on Oct. 6, 2022. Burial was in Highview Memorial Gardens. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial contributions be made to the Organization for Autism Research.

Granddaughter Luann Alexander wed George Kirchner. Together, they produced a trio of children -- George W. Kirchner, Matthew Kirchner and Laura Fox.

Son Charles Franklin Rodeheaver (1941-2010) was born on Aug. 23, 1941 in Dearth, Fayette County. He relocated to Baltimore, MD where he earned income as a factory worker in young manhood. At the age of 20, on Oct. 21, 1961, he traveled to Winchester, VA to be joined in marriage with 21-year-old Darlene Marie Young (July 12, 1940-2010), daughter of Albert Arnold and Winnie (Stafford) Young of Oliver, Fayette County. Rev. Jacob W. Mast, of the local Methodist Church, led the rites. Their union endured over the ebbs and flows of 49 years together. She brought a stepson into the union who took on Charles' surname -- Scott A. Rodeheaver. A pair of daughters born to the couple were Cheryl Lynn Rodeheaver and Diana Dawn Rodeheaver. The family is known to have resided in Baltimore in 1969, a year in which they returned to Uniontown and he found a job in the mines. He eventually retired from Consol Energy. The Rodeheavers attended Christ United Methodist Church. Sadly, both Charles and Darlene both passed away in 2010. She had spent three years battling pancreatic cancer and died first, at age 70, on Sept. 22, 2010. He followed two-and-a-half months later, on Dec. 2, 2010, after being injured in an assault by his stepson and hitting his head on pavement after a fall in a dispute over removal of flowers placed at Darlene's grave. He was life-flighted to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital and died six days later on Dec. 8. Their remains sleep for eternity in the Rodeheaver plot in Lafayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill. The stepson was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to serve between six to 23 months in Fayette County Prison. He was granted early parole in December 2012 and released with an order to serve six months on house arrest.

Step-grandson Scott A. Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) has resided in Jefferson, Greene County, PA.

Granddaughter Cheryl Lynn Rodeheaver (1962-living ) was born in 1962 in Uniontown. She is a 1980 graduate of Laurel Highlands High School and immediately joined the U.S. Army following in her late Great Uncle Frank Rodeheaver's footsteps. She continued and retired from government service as an employee for the U.S. Postal Service upon completion of her military tour of duty. She married Ricky Rhodes ( ? - ? ) of Smithfield, PA and have two children: Christopher Lee Rodeheaver and Nicole Elizabeth Rhodes and one granddaughter.

Granddaughter Diana Dawn Rodeheaver (1963-living) was born in 1963 in Uniontown. She is a 1981 graduate of Laurel Highlands Senior High School, Uniontown and joined the U.S. Air Force immediately following graduation. She had her first child Franklin Ray Rodeheaver in Wiesbaden, Germany in 1984 and later wed her husband Willie Barreto ( ? - ? ) in 1985 in Maryland. The couple share two children together, Kristin Marie Barreto, born in Wiesbaden in 1987 and Michael Thomas Barreto born in Spokane, WA in 1989 and three grandchildren born to their daughter Kristin -- Hailey Elizabeth Reigh Barreto/Hensley (Born in Dayton, OH 2008), Ysybella Dawn Marie Hensley (born in Dayton in 2009) and Hunter Ball (Born in Madison AL, 2021). After traveling the world with the military community, Diana and Willie divorced after 23 years of marriage in 2008. Diana retired after 36 years of government service (Air Force and as an Army Civilian) in 2025; she and her two children Kristin and Michael and her three grandchildren: Hailey, Bella and Hunter live within Owens Cross Roads and Athens, AL. Franklin her older son relocated to Allen Park, MI upon completion of his Navy tour of duty in 2006.

~ Son Clyde Henry Rodeheaver ~

Son Clyde Henry Rodeheaver (1916-1973) was born on July 26, 1916 in Keisterville.

He stood 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighed 190 lbs. in young manhood, later ballooning to 220 lbs. He is known to have served in the U.S. Army circa 1934, and was a member of the Medical Corps stationed at Carlisle, PA.

Later in the 1930s, he made headlines when he was convicted of robbing an elderly retired woman school teacher in the Keisterville area. He was incarcerated in Fayette County Jail, and is shown residing there at the age of 23 in the U.S. Census of 1940. When applying for a hardship parole, in September 1940, he told the court that he "was suffering from sinus, rheumatism and spinal trouble," said the Uniontown Morning Herald, and "has been advised by the jail physician that confinement is aggravating his condition, that he desired to obtain proper treatment and has employment to which he can turn if released from further custody." He was temporarily released to return home during the Easter 1941 holiday weekend.

He appears to have been thrice-wed. The first spouse appears to have been Freda Bair (1918-1980). They were together in 1936. The second of his brides was Ruth Miller ( ? - ? ).

Clyde was the father of three sons -- Joseph R. Rodeheaver, Robert E. Rodeheaver Sr. and Charles Rodeheaver.

Son Joseph was born in 1936 while Clyde and Freda were in Carlisle, PA. Sadly, at the age of just three months and four days, he died from acute middle ear infection ("otitis media") and malnutrition on May 10, 1936. His tender remains were laid to rest in the old grave yard in Carlisle.

During World War II, Clyde rejoined the Army Air Forces in April 1943. He reached the rank of corporal and served until March 1946.

In 1946-1948, Clyde lived in Dayton, OH, where he worked in "checking" for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Then later that year, they moved to Denver, CO, making a residence in the Shirley Hotel, Embassy Hotel and in an apartment at 1671 Logan. There, he was employed as a fry cook by the Red Wing Cafe and then at the A-A Ranch in Encampment, CO before joining the workforce of the Colorado Steelworks.

Clyde's final wife was Beverly ( ? - ? ). They made a home in Denver but divorced on Aug. 11, 1970.

Freda spent her later years in Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA and married again to (?) Penland ( ? - ? ). She died on Oct. 9, 1980. An obituary in the Harrisburg Patriot-News said she was survived by her sons Robert E. Rodeheaver and Charles W. Howard of Wisconsin. Interment was in Paxtang Cemetery, with the services presided by Rev. Henry S. Raab.

Sadly, Clyde died in Denver, CO on May 30, 1973. Burial was in Fort Logan National Cemetery.

Son Robert E. Rodeheaver Sr. (1937-1999) was born in 1937. He married Carole Ann Donbaugh (1943-living). They dwelled at 3436 Walnut Street in Harrisburg, PA in 1973 and in Enhaut, PA in 1990. They were the parents of Cheryl Lynn Kresge, Christina Marie Venturo and Robert E. Rodeheaver Jr. Robert was employed by Ganflec. Their final dwelling-place together was in Grantville near Harrisburg. Sadly, Robert passed away at the age of 62 on Aug. 12, 1999. His obituary was printed in the Harrisburg Patriot-News. Interment of the remains was in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Lower Paxton Township. The widowed Carole made her residence in 2004 in Mechanicsburg, PA.

Granddaughter Cheryl Lynn Rodeheaver was an alumna of Central Dauphin East High School. She exchanged marital vows with Douglas E. Kresge ( ? - ? ). In 1999-2004, their home was in Grantville, PA. They lost an infant granddaughter, Haley Nichole Popp, in Hershey Medical Center on Feb. 21, 2004.

Granddaughter Christina Marie Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) is an alumna of Central Dauphin East High School. Christina is the mother of Wendi-Ann Rodeheaver. She was employed in 1990 as a senate page in the Pennsylvania State Senate. In the spring of 1990, she was joined in wedlock with Ralph Edward Venturo ( ? - ? ), son of Samuel D. Vanturo of Steelton, PA. The wedding was held in St. Ann's Catholic Church, and the beaming couple was pictured in the Harrisburg Patriot News. Ralph was a graduate of Steelton-Highspire High School and at the time of marriage worked as a lithographic press operator for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The pair settled in Steelton and were there in 1999.

Grandson Robert E. Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) planted himself in Lititz, PA as of 1999.

Son Charles Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) - his story has faded from view.

~ Son Benton E. Rodeheaver ~

Son Benton E. Rodeheaver (1919- ? ) was born on Jan. 10, 1919.

He was charged with burglary in a 1938 theft at a private residence in Uppermiddletown with two other friends.

Benton joined the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. As of 1943, he was stationed at Camp Beale in California.

On Jan. 10, 1941, he married Bertha Andrews ( ? - ? ), daughter of Michael Andrews Jr. of Nemacolin.

The Rodeheavers lived in Keisterville in 1948-1966. They marked their silver wedding anniversary in January 1966, with a related article appearing in the Uniontown Evening Standard.

Together, they produced a trio of children -- Judith Shaw, Kerry Rodeheaver and Benton Rodeheaver.

Daughter Judith Rodeheaver (1941-2023) was born on Aug. 23, 1941 in Uniontown, PA. She was a 1959 graduate of Uniontown Joint Senior High School and was employed as a young woman with Michael Berkowitz Shirt Factory. She is believed to have wed Donald Kenneth Shaw (Nov. 4, 1937-2015), son of Joseph and Martha (Firmstone) Shaw of Mount Pleasant, PA. Donald was a 1955 graduate of Hurst High School and earned a living in young manhood with B.J. Bartlow of Mount Pleasant. They settled in the rural outskirts of Mount Pleasant and became the parents of two -- John Kenneth Shaw and Elizabeth Dawn Booher. Donald was employed over the years with Duraloy Steel Company, while Judith gave of her time helping others, especially providing care to the elderly. They belonged to the First United Church of Christ in town. Grief swept over the family when Donald, residing in the Harmon House Convalescent Center, died at the age of 77 on June 6, 2015. Funeral obsequies were conducted by Rev. Paul R. Sarver, with burial following in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Judith survived her spouse by eight years. Toward the end, she was admitted to the Ligonier Gardens Personal Care Home. She passed away there at the age of 81 on April 26, 2023. An obituary appeared in the Greensburg Tribune Review.

Grandson John Kenneth Shaw (1961- ? ) was born in about 1961. He tied the marital cord with Darlene. They planted themselves in Mammoth near Mount Pleasant as of 2015.

Granddaughter Elizabeth Dawn Shaw (1965- ? ) was born in about 1965. At her second birthday, she was pictured in the Uniontown Evening Standard. She entered into marriage with Brent Booher and settled in Mount Pleasant. The pair moved to Florida by 2023.

Daughter Kerry Louise Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) was a 1968 graduate of Uniontown Area High School. During her senior year, she earned income through her work for the Discount Pop Mart in town.

~ Daughter Mary "Lucinda" (Rodeheaver) Gray ~

Daughter Mary "Lucinda" Rodeheaver (1920-2007) was born on Sept. 26, 1920 in Keisterville, Fayette County.

Unmarried at the age of 29, in 1950, she lived under the roof of her widowed father in Keisterville, along with her younger siblings Homer and Leroy.

Lucinda eventually married Franklin Edgar Gray (July 6, 1925-1987).

They resided in Keisterville and did not reproduce.

Sadly, Franklin was cleaved away by the grim reaper of death in Jan. 1987.

Lucinda outlived her husband by nearly 21 years. She passed away in Uniontown Hospital at the age of 87 on Dec. 4, 2007. Rev. David White led her funeral obsequies. She was laid to rest at LaFayette Memorial Park at Brier Hill, near Uniontown.

~ Daughter Cevilla Irene (Rodeheaver) Wahler ~

Daughter Cevilla Irene Rodeheaver (1908-1989) was born on Oct. 20, 1908.

On June 7, 1933, at the age of 24, she married 43-year-old Joseph Wilford "Dutch" Wahler (April 2, 1890-1959), son of John and Martha (Benzer) Wahler of Scottdale, PA. They were 18 years apart in age.

Wilford was divorced from his first wife Katherine Blanche Kachmar ( ? -1964), and he brought two sons into the second marriage, John "Edward" Wahler and Joseph Wilford Wahler Jr.

The family lived in Uniontown and bore one son of their own, Gerald L. Wahler.

Wilford "was employed for 18 years as a sweeper operator for the City of Uniontown Street Dept.," said the Uniontown Evening Standard. "He was a member of the Calvary Methodist Church."

Their address in 1942 was 76 Park Avenue and in 1959 was 28 Carlisle Street, Uniontown.

Sadly, stricken by acute leukemia, hardening of the arteries and heart disease, Wilford died on New Year's Day 1959, at Uniontown Hospital, at the age of 63. He was survived by five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Burial was at Lafayette Memorial Park, with Rev. Howard M. Brown presiding.

Cevilla outlived her husband by many years. Among her addresses in Uniontown were at 61 Pittsburgh Street, 438 Clarendon Avenue, 62 Bailey Avenue, 477 Braddock Avenue and 58 Askren Street.

In September 1965, Cevilla and family, along with her widowed father and sister Lucinda, motored to Kingwood, Preston County, WV, to visit Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Rodehaver and Mr. and Mrs. Daley Miller.

Cevilla and her brother Homer, sister Lucinda and sister in law Myrtle Rodeheaver often traveled to Pittsburgh to attend live musical and theatre performances. Among these was seeing the Ice Capades in 1952, 1965 and 1966, and also the Robert Goulet Revue at Pittsburgh's Civic Arena in 1966. In 1970, they saw singer Jerry Vale perform at the Twin Coaches.

She also was close with her aunt Evelyn Walters and cousin Jean Lowller, and both attended her birthday dinner in Uniontown in August 1963.

She was gathered away into the heavenly host on Sept. 12, 1989.Former wife Katherine spent her final years in Monroeville. She died at the age of 73 on Aug. 11, 1964. An obituary was printed in the Evening Standard, and services were held in the Edward E. Minerd Funeral Home, led by Rev. Grant R. Walborn of the local Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.

Son Gerald Lee Wahler was born on July 24 (?). On May 16, 1963, he wed Lois Mae ( ? - ? ). One daughter of this union was Phyllis Ann Wahler. Gerald's home circa 1965 was in Leetsdale, Allegheny County, PA. But the marriage dissolved, and Lois filed for divorce in April 1966. Evidence suggests that he lived in Dunbar, PA in more recent years.

Stepson John "Edward" Wahler (1912-1997) was born on July 8, 1912 in Uniontown. He earned a living as a truck driver in Uniontown in young manhood. In 1934, in Monongalia County, WV, the 22-year-old Edward tied the marital cord with 22-year-old Helen DeHanis (1913- ? ), daughter of Andrew and Mary DeHanis (sometimes misspelled as "DeHarris"). Their wedding ceremony was held in the Protestant Episcopal Church, by the hand of Rev. William G. Gehri. At the time of marriage, Helen worked for a shirt factory in Mount Pleasant. Together, the pair bore four known children -- John "Edward" Wahler Jr., Herbert L. Wahler, Helen Louise Rentfrow and Edith R. "Edie" Baxter Rossini. The Wahlers made their home in Uniontown in 1940-1968, with him generating income in 1940 as a clerk in a retail meats and groceries store. Their homeplace in 1968 was at 156 Connellsville Street. Death swept him away on March 22, 1997.

Grandson John Edward "Ed" Wahler Jr. (1937-2005) was born on Aug. 23, 1937 in Uniontown. He was twice-wed. His first bride was Barbara Jean Holliday ( ? - ? ). His second spouse was Judith A. Holliday ( ? - ? ). His four offspring were Linda Orawiec, John Edward Wahler III, Scott K. Wahler and Dr. Bruce A. Wahler. They planted themselves in Uniontown, where John spent a 40-year career with Bell Atlantic Telephone. He held a membership in the Communication Workers of America union, Local 1300, and belonged to the Cherry Tree Alliance Church. Sadly, at the age of 68, he died at home on Sept. 19, 2005.

Great-granddaughter Linda Wahler wed David Orawiec. They have lived in Uniontown.

Great-grandson John Edward Wahler, III married Kristen and settled in Amarillo, TX.

Great-grandson Scott K. Wahler entered into marriage with Kimberly. As of 2005, they dwelled in Eau Claire, WI.

Great-grandson Dr. Bruce A. Wahler is a 2003 medical school graduate. He was joined in wedlock with Dr. Suzanne Renee. They have resided in McBee, SC, where they are licensed chiropractors with Premiere Chiropractic.
Grandson Herbert L. Wahler (1939- ? ) was born in about 1939. He was an alumnus of Uniontown Joint Senior High School and went on to work for Wilson Company. On Feb. 11, 1961, he married Katharine Barton Rice ( ? - ? ), daughter of Donald Lewis and Dorothy Lloyd (Lewis) Rice of 63 Kerr Street in Uniontown. Their service was held in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, with Rev. Grant R. Walborn presiding. The beaming couple were pictured in a story in the Uniontown Morning Herald, which said they had exchanged their vows "In a lovely setting of standards of white gladioli and palms... [The] bride wore a ballerina-length gown of ice blue peau de soie, fashioned with basque bodice and full skirt. She completed her ensemble with a matching crown with face veil of silk illusion and matching slippers." Katherine was a 1960 graduate of Uniontown High. The newlyweds made their first address at 63 Kerr Street, Uniontown. He joined the U.S. Army in March 1961 and trained at Fort Dix and then an engineer equipment maintenance course at Fort Belvoir. Following the completion of his term of military service, he attended Temple University, studying engineering technology. The Wahlers eventually relocated to Rockville, MD.

Granddaughter Helen Louise Wahler was united in matrimony with Rev. Thomas Rentfrow. They initially made their dwelling-place in Heron, VA, where he pastored a church. Then circa 1992, believing he was following God's direction, they relocated to Elm Grove near Wheeling, WV to found the Abundant Life Baptist Church and Christian School. At the time, they were warned that a majority of Elm Grove residents were Catholic or otherwise engaged with their own churches. Said the Baptist Press, "The Rentfrows had doors slammed in their faces. But they persevered, building bridges to active and nominal Catholics -- and lasting friendships. The most effective bridge has been Tom Rentfrow’s involvement in the pro-life movement." In 2002, they were led to plant a new church in an older Polish section of Wheeling, in an old St. Ladislaus Catholic parish building that they bought for $35,000.

Granddaughter Edith R. "Edie" Wahler ( ? - ? ) is a 1966 graduate of Uniontown Joint Senior High School. She then secured a job with Rockwell Manufacturing Company. Edith has been twice-wed. She first tied the knot with Thomas Baxter ( ? - ? ), son of Charles Baxter. He was a 1966 Uniontown High grad and at the time a member of the U.S. Army, serving at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Two known offspring were Kelli Jean Baxter and Thomas "Chad" Baxter. In 1977, the Baxters lived in Gibbon Glade, Fayette County. Thomas in 1977 served as Wharton Township tax collector. The marriage dissolved in divorce. Edie eventually married again to Richard Rossini, while Thomas was joined in wedlock with Scarlet and remained in Gibbon Glade. The Rossinis relocated to Lawrenceville, GA. Evidence suggests that Edie has been employed as a real estate title examiner for Eastern Sky Title Inc.

Great-granddaughter Kelli Jean Baxter (1972- ? ) was born in 1972. She was pictured in the Uniontown Evening Standard on her first birthday.

Great-grandson Thomas "Chad" Baxter (1974- ? ) was born in 1974 in Uniontown Hospital. His birth was announced in the Uniontown Evening Standard. Chad received an electrical engineering degree from Pennsylvania State University and became employed by Verizon in Greenbelt, MD.

Stepson Joseph Wilford Wahler Jr. (1916-2001) was born on July 21, 1916 in Uniontown. Dr. S.E. Hibbs assisted in the birth. As a young man he stood 6 feet, 3 inches tall and weighed 185 lbs. He was employed in 1939 as a Uniontown representative for a Pittsburgh newspaper. On Nov. 9, 1939, Joseph married Charlotte Elizabeth Hays (1917-1989), daughter of John William and Kathryn Olive (Engel) Hays of Hopwood, Fayette County. They exchanged their marital vows in St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Uniontown, officiated by Rev. Herman H. Will. The Connellsville Daily Courier announced the happy event, saying that "Quiet simplicity marked the marriage" and "The bride wore an olive green gown with brown accessories." Charlotte was a 1935 graduate of South Union High School and at the time of marriage worked for the Hollywood Shop in Uniontown. One known son of the couple was Ronald Wilford Wahler. Early in the marriage, circa 1940, the pair lived in Hopwood, with him employed by J.W. Hays & Sons on Furnace Road. Then during World War II, he served an 11-month term in the U.S. Armed Forces. He spent more than seven months overseas with an Engineers unit in Korea. They resided circa 1950-1959 in Wilkinsburg, PA (at 1425 Swissvale Avenue) and in 1964-1967 in Monroeville, Allegheny County, PA. As of 1950, his occupation was in machinery repair. His final residence was in Markleysburg near Uniontown. He died on Jan. 12, 2001. The remains were lowered under the sod of Chalk Hill Lutheran Cemetery.

Step-grandson Ronald Wilford Wahler (1944- ? ) was born on March 4, 1944. He grew up in Wilkinsburg and was pictured in the Uniontown Morning Herald upon his second birthday.

~ Son Harld "Frank" Rodeheaver ~

Harold "Frank" Rodeheaver was killed during the Battle of the Bulge

Lafayette Memorial Park

Son Harold "Frank" Rodeheaver (1922-1945) was born on Aug. 22, 1922 in Keisterville, Fayette County.

He did not marry.

During World War II, Frank was drafted and joined the U.S. Army at New Cumberland, PA. He was assigned to serve with the Army's 14th Armored Infantry Battalion, 14th Armored Division. He was deployed to the European Theatre of war.

Tragically, Frank was killed in action at the age of 22 in combat in France during the Battle of the Bulge, on Jan. 19, 1945.

Frank's remains later were returned home for funeral services and burial in August 1948. The service was conducted in the Union Church of Keisterville, jointly led by Rev. Lester E. Reckard of the Uppermiddletown Church and Rev. M.P Steele of the Pleasant View Presbyterian Church. Interment took place at LaFayette Memorial Park near Uniontown.

Then in 1950, Frank's father was awarded $500 from the Pennsylvania World War II Veterans' Compensation Bureau for the loss of their son.

In July 1998, officials from our national reunion marked Frank's grave with a special plaque and flower.

~ Son Homer C. Rodeheaver ~

Son Homer C. Rodeheaver (1925- ? ) was born on Jan. 10, 1925. As a boy, he accidentally lost an eye at age three or four when he was shot by a gun.

Not yet married, in 1950, the 25-year-old dwelled with his widowed father and siblings Lucinda and Leroy in Keisterville. He earned a living that year as a laborer in a dairy.

He married Wilma Brant ( ? - ? ), daughter of Oliver and Lula Brant. They lived in Keisterville.

They together bore a brood of three known children, Terry Lee Rodehaver, Joyce White and Lana Henson.

U.S. Steel's Duquesne Works. From a painting by Howard Fogg for the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Co., of the New York Central System.

Son Terry Lee Rodeheaver Sr. (1954-2023) was born on Sept. 28, 1954 in Uniontown. He wed Dianna Lynn McCumber ( ? - ? ), daughter of John McCumber of Whitsett, Fayette County. The ceremony took place in July 1977 at the Keisterville Uniontown Church, led by Rev. Thomas Newman. The couple lived at Perryopolis, Fayette County. Three children of this marriage were Terry Lee Rodeheaver Jr., Justin Rodeheaver and Kayla Rodeheaver. At one time, Terry worked for the Uniontown Herald-Standard newspaper. Then for many years, he was employed at the Duquesne Works of U.S. Steel Corporation, a position from which he retired. He liked to fish, hunt and follow the fortunes of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He held memberships in the Keisterville Union Church and the Keisterville Sportsmans Club. Their final residence was in Keisterville. Sadly, at the age of 68, Terry passed away on April 27, 2023. The remains were lowered into repose in LaFayette Memorial Park.

Grandson Terry Lee Rodeheaver Jr. ( ? - ? )

Grandson Justin Rodeheaver ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Kayla Rodeheaver ( ? - ? )

Daughter Joyce Ann Rodeheaver ( ? - ? ) was born on (?). In young womanhood, she was a volunteer aide at the annual Fall Festival of the Keisterville Union Church. She entered into marriage with Rev. David Mahan White (Oct. 18, 1945-2021), a Morgantown native and the son of Eugene and Betty Jean (Poling) White and stepson of Billy Reah Hackney. Their union endured for a quarter of a century. Three offspring of this family were Melissa Kendall, Kim George and David Mahan White Jr. Said the Morgantown (WV) Dominion Post, "Dave was blessed with the ability to meet people where they were, which made him an exceptional salesperson. He worked in insurance for a time and would make his mark in the corporate world to become one of Ford Motor Company's most revered and successful salespeople. Dave would outsell all his peers every year at one of the nation's largest dealerships on the west coast and would eventually be given the responsibility to train other salespeople; in fact, he wrote the manual that Ford used to train sales teams nationwide." His final position, after more than 40 years, was with Morgantown Power Equipment. He also was a minister of the gospel, receiving his doctorate in theology from Apostolic Bible Institute. For a baker's dozen years, he led congregations as senior pastor of the First Apostolic Church in Sabraton near Morgantown and the Malden Christian Fellowship of Malden, PA. He blended song into his ministry, performing in quartets as well as leading funerals, weddings and revivals. Sadly, David entered the realm of holy eternity on May 14, 2021. A Dominion Post obituary said he was survived by seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Co-officiating his funeral were Senior Pastor Allen Donham and Pastor Ken Walls. Burial was in Walnut Hill Cemetery, Uniontown.

Granddaughter Melissa White wed Patrick Kendall. They relocated to North Carolia.

Granddaughter Kim White married (?) George. She was in Morgantown in 2021.

Grandson David Mahan White Jr. has resided in Morgantown.

Daughter Lana Rodeheaver married Thomas Clarence Henson ( ? -2011). They dwelled at Collier, Fayette County and were the parents of Thomas Henson and Sean Henson. Sadly, Thomas died at the age of 56, at UPMC St. Clair Hospital, on July 9, 2011. The widowed Lana has maintained a residence in Uniontown.

Grandson Thomas Henson

Grandson Sean Henson

~ Son Leroy Rodeheaver ~

Son Leroy Rodeheaver (1930- ? ) was born in about 1930 in Keisterville.

In 1950, single at the age of 23, he lived under the roof of his widowed father in Keisterville and had no occupation.

He made his home in Uniontown for many years.