FERENCE

JEANETTE "JAN" MARIE (BILOWICH)

Jeanette fell asleep in the Lord after a long illness on Sunday, May 17, 2026. A resident of Wilkinsburg for more than 70 years, Jeanette was born in Lyndora, PA to the late Martin and Josephine (Hunka) Bilowich. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband and "childhood sweetheart" Stephen Ference, and her two brothers, Martin Jr. and Edward Harry Bilowich.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Cynthia Ference-Kelly and Joseph Kelly, and Mary Anne and William Mistick; as well as her cherished sisters-in-law, Elaine (Martin) Bilowich and Shirley (Edward) Bilowich; many dear nieces and nephews; and numerous treasured friends.

Jeanette was a loving and caring wife and mother. Her mother died tragically when Jeanette and her brothers were young children, so Jeanette dedicated herself to be the mother that she never had, and her daughters will never forget her deep devotion and love.

She volunteered for many years at the former Columbia Hospital in Wilkinsburg, first in the Physical Therapy Department and later at the Front Information Desk. Her volunteer work was especially rewarding, and she continued even when employed full-time.

During the early 1970s she worked as a sales clerk at Prices of Wilkinsburg, a high-end women's clothing store. Jeanette discovered she had a knack and flair for fashion and worked her way up to store manager by 1978. She remained at Prices until the mid-1980s, when she switched paths to become a Radiology records clerk at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. She worked there for ten years before taking an early retirement to join her husband in his retirement. Years later she would state how grateful she was for those retirement years with Steve, as they enjoyed traveling, renovating their new home, and helping their daughters and sons-in-law in many ways.

Jeanette was initially quiet and shy, but once you engaged her in conversation, she blossomed and enjoyed getting to know you and caring about you.

The family would like to thank the staff at Interim Hospice and Presbyterian Senior Care's Westminster Place and The Willows in Oakmont for their compassionate and excellent care.

Jeanette loved her church, Saints Peter and Paul in Braddock, and was a faithful member for 70+ years. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Saints Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, "Adopt-a-Project Fund," c/o Parish Office, 4200 Homestead Duquesne Rd, Munhall, PA 15120.

Visitation will not be held, as per Jeanette's request. All are welcome to her Divine Liturgy which will be held Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, 431 George St., Braddock, PA 15104. The funeral will stream online at https://stspeterpaulbcc.com/on-line/.

A private burial will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Butler, PA, where Jeanette will be laid to eternal rest alongside her beloved husband, Steve.