Obituary

Philadelphia Obituaries

In the heart of Philadelphia lies a tapestry of stories, memories, and legacies woven together through the obituaries featured on this page. Here, amidst the bustling cityscape, we pay tribute to lives lived and loved, each of these Philadelphia obituaries serving as a poignant reminder of the impact individuals have had on our community.

With each name etched in these digital pages, every life is cherished, every story is valued, and every legacy is celebrated. Join us in remembrance and reverence, honoring the lives that have left an indelible mark on our city.

Patricia Lee Gordon Cowell

Patricia Lee Gordon Cowell (nee Reed), passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the age of 81. Pat was born on June 5, 1943, in Chester, Pennsylvania to the late Kermit and Kathleen Eyler Reed. She was a sister of the late Fred Reed, and Ida Mae. Pat grew up mostly in Philadelphia but had many relatives in Union Bridge, Maryland. She was married at the young age 18 to Jerome Gordon but raised her children on her own in Philadelphia. Pat was also married to late Donald Cowell Sr. She was the mother of Kathleen DeMarco (Larry), Maureen Trainor (Ray), Michelle Gordon, Colleen Terra and Michael Gordon (Marie). Pat also was the step mother to two step sons, Jerome Gordon Jr. and Patrick Gordon (Ann). Grandmother to Fawne Trainor, Tara Trainor, Meagan Trainor, Andrew DeMarco, Amanda DeMarco, Mario Terra, Angela Terra, Michael Gordon Jr., and Jason Gordon. Pat was GG to 7 great- grandchildren. Pat was mostly raised in Philadelphia as a child but spent a lot of time in Union Bridge and Fredrick, Maryland. She loved going to American bandstand to dance as a teenager. As an adult, she liked to fish and go crabbing with her children down at the Jersey shore and in Maryland. Pat enjoyed quilting, sewing, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her later years she lived in Northeast Philly. Pat will be greatly missed by all her family and friends. Service will be private at the request of the family.

Gloria Preno

Gloria Preno, a resident of Chapel Manor Nursing Home, passed away on June 6, 2024. She is survived by her son, David Preno, grandchildren Quintavia Preno, Qualyn Preno and one great grandchild, Jamir Preno (also one great grandchild expected to arrive soon). Sadly missed by her siblings, Charles Preno, Glenn Preno, Anthony Preno, John Preno, Anne Preno, Denise Preno, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Please keep them all in your daily prayers.

Carol Schlacter

Carol Schlacter, of Philadelphia, PA, sadly passed away on June 3, 2024, at the age of 69. Daughter of the late Charles and Elizabeth Eells. Beloved wife of the late Stephen Schlacter. Loving mother of Joe Sr., Beth (Dave), Shannon (Al), and Stephen (Crystal). Loving mom-mom of Joseph Jr., Andrew, David, Christian, Genevieve, Alex, Bella, and Briella as well as great-grandmom of David. Sister of Deborah, and the late Nancy and Kathy. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. All are invited to Carol’s viewing and funeral on Wednesday, June 12th At McCafferty Funeral and Cremation Inc. 6711 Frankford Avenue 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.

William Joseph Matczak

William Joseph Matczak
Sunrise: 3/19/1956 Sunset: 6/3/2024

William J. Matczak, better known as Mr. Bill, of the 19124 area of Philadelphia passed away on June 3rd, 2024, at the age of 68. Mr. Bill leaves behind two children, Sandy Julianne Matczak and William Edward Matczak, and a bonus daughter, Tina Matczak, who is his niece, but viewed her as a second daughter. He also leaves behind 2 granddaughters, Nylah Williams and Yuna Newman, and an unborn grandchild. In addition, he leaves behind two bonus granddaughters, Keylani and Ava Newman.

Mr. Bill will forever be known for his sarcasm, dad jokes, playing darts, and being both a sports and war history guru. He was easy to talk to, and brilliantly quick with word substitutions and scrabble games. He was also known as a selfless man who would put others first and give you his last dollar if you needed it. He provided support to his children, even in his adult years, and took being a dad and granddad very seriously. The grandchildren have the following things to say about him: He was always smiling. He always played board games with us. He put us first. We loved his funny dad jokes.

Mr. Bill resiliently battled mental health challenges, blindness, lung cancer diagnoses, and years of COPD before finally saying goodbye to the world. His passing was a true devastation, but his memory will live on.

We love you, PopPop!

Tributes and Remembrances

Within the pages of obituaries in Philadelphia, PA, we find more than just names and dates; we discover the power of storytelling.

Obituaries are more than mere announcements of passing; they are heartfelt tributes, preserving memories, and celebrating lives well-lived. Through the delicate art of storytelling, we weave together the threads of individual journeys, honoring the triumphs, the joys, and the sorrows that have shaped each life.

In these pages, we find solace in remembrance, comfort in shared stories, and strength in the legacies that endure. Join us as we celebrate the lives that have touched our hearts and left an indelible mark on the fabric of our region.

Supporting the Bereaved

In the wake of loss, navigating the tumultuous seas of grief can feel overwhelming. At McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc., we extend our heartfelt support to those touched by loss, recognizing the profound impact of Philadelphia obituaries in marking the passage of loved ones.

With compassion as our guiding light, we offer a sanctuary of solace, providing resources and support to individuals traversing the labyrinth of grief. From grief counseling services to bereavement support groups, we connect bereaved individuals with the compassionate care and understanding they need to navigate this journey.

In these moments of profound sorrow, we stand as pillars of strength, offering a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. Let us walk this path together, offering comfort, solace, and unwavering support to those who mourn the loss of their loved ones.

Sharing Memories

Amidst the pages of these Philadelphia obituaries, we find not only the stories of those who have passed but also the countless lives they have touched. We invite you to share your own memories, stories, and reflections about these individuals, contributing to the collective celebration of their lives and legacies.

In sharing our personal experiences and fond memories, we breathe life into the narratives of those who have left an indelible mark on our hearts. Together, let us honor their lives, celebrate their legacies, and find solace in the bonds of shared remembrance.

Community Connections

Here, amidst the ebb and flow of grief, we create a compassionate online community where individuals can find understanding, empathy, and solidarity. It is in sharing our burdens and our sorrows that we discover the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Together, let us forge bonds of compassion and support, reaching out to one another with kindness and empathy. In this community of shared remembrance, may we find solace in the knowledge that we are not alone, and that together, we can navigate the journey of grief with grace and dignity.

Honoring Legacies, One Life at a Time

With unwavering dedication, we provide a dignified and respectful platform for these obituaries, ensuring that every individual is remembered with the reverence they deserve. It is our commitment to uphold the values of compassion, empathy, and sensitivity in every aspect of the webpage’s content and interactions.

At McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc., we are here to support you during this difficult time. Whether you are considering a traditional burial, exploring options for cremation, or looking for guidance in planning a service, our compassionate team is ready to assist you.

We also specialize in providing veteran funeral services, ensuring that every detail honors the service and sacrifice of your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a meaningful tribute.