Mary Louise Orlando

Mary Louise Orlando, 83, of McKeesport, passed away Friday, October 4, 2024. She was born May 14, 1941 and was raised in McKeesport by the late James and Gertrude (Canfield) Gabriel, Sr. She was the wife of 58 years to the late Salvatore Thomas Orlando, before his passing in April 2019. Mary Lou was best known for her contagious laugh, remaining positive through the toughest of times, and her unparalleled strength to overcome the odds. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family during summer vacations at the Jersey Shore, holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, and grilling in the backyard. Mary Lou worked hard her entire life - caring not only for her children and grandchildren, but as a compassionate Nursing Assistant at McKeesport Hospital for 20 years. Later in life she enjoyed working the front desk at De Blasio's Designs where she always greeted people with a smile and made many long-time friends. She is survived by her son, Anthony James Orlando of White Oak; daughters, MiMi (Lee) Kaminsky of McKeesport, and Gina Marie (Paul) Watson of White Oak; 3 grandsons, Nathan (Steph Bracken) Kaminsky, Kevin (Kari) Kaminsky, and Orlando Watson; brother, James (Lynne) Gabriel; sister in law, Lucretia Zangrilli; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her half brother, Louis Gabriel; and brother & sister in-laws, Catherine (Dennis) Marshall, Nicholas "Tony" Orlando, and Dr. James Zangrilli. Mary Lou will be missed by many but most especially by her family and all the family pets including her favorite cat, Pickles. She was the light of their lives and their daily dose of sunshine. She was who you called first with good or bad news and her joyful spirit, quick wit and endless ability to see the bright side will be missed. Whether you knew her as Mary Lou, Mar, Mom, Gram, Aunt Mary Lou, or Woo she was truly one of a kind and someone never to be forgotten. Rest in Peace. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131. (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, director. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, November 17th, 2024 from 12-3pm at Moments Event Hall - 231 Jennie Drive, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com