Lillian Ruth (Jones) Kowalcyk

Lillian “Lil” Kowalcyk died on January 10, 2021. She was 90 years old.

She was born on May 21, 1930 as the daughter of Tom and Flotys Jones of Pickens, West Virginia. She joined a loving family of three older brothers and lived in Pickens until she was 20 years of age. On June 30, 1950 she married Rudolph “Duke” Kowalcyk and moved to Houtzdale, PA where she remained until moving to “The Oaks” in Pleasant Gap, PA in 2017. The couple had three children (Rudy, Judy, and Tom).

She was a loving wife, devoted mother, devout Catholic, good friend, and a career woman. Choosing to work outside of the home, she made a career by working in the textile industry. She started her career being employed by Campo Slacks as a seamstress. After acquiring additional skills and showing leadership capabilities, she became a floor manager. She finally ended her career in the textile industry working for Navasky Clothing Factory in Philipsburg, PA as their Quality Control Supervisor. She always did her best at what ever task was given her and was proud of her work. She was 62 when she retired.

She preferred the simpler joys of living. If telling a story about when she had fun, she would undoubtedly recall such times as attending the yearly Snowball dance at the American Legion or an October drive for a Friday fish dinner at Sir Barneys just to enjoy the fall foliage. She loved being with her dog, a Golden Retriever called Banon. She even enjoyed spring house cleaning and found great pleasure knowing it had been done. But what gave her the most joy was to be with her family and friends. Hours could be spent on her front porch or at the kitchen table just enjoying each other’s company. The smile never left her face as she watched her great grandchildren do chalk art on her patio.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and husband. She is survived by her three children and their spouses, three grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

Recently she commented, “Don’t cry for me when I’m gone. I’ve had a good life”. The family asks all to honor her wish and celebrate her life. Let us also give thanks to our Lord for sharing her with us for so many years.

There will be no public visitation.  A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Christ The King Catholic Church, Houtzdale with Father Joseph Czarkowski as celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made in Lillian's memory to a favorite Catholic Charity or any children's organization.

The Birger A Freeberg Funeral Home Inc, Houtzdale is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.birgerafreebergfuneralhome.com.