Winona Jean (Balog) Searles

Winona Jean Searles, 87, died June 29, 2024 in Manlius, NY surrounded by her family after bravely facing pancreatic cancer. Born January 16, 1937 in Sharon, PA to Joseph and Mary Alberta (Aderhold) Balog, Jean married her high-school sweetheart, David Lee Searles, who predeceased her. 

She is survived by her Aunt Gizella Varkonda, her four children, Robert (Carol) Searles, Cheryll (George) Davis, Donna Komor and Bruce (Erica) Searles; sister Catherine (George) West, half-brother Alan (Sandy) Clemons, half-brother John (Valerie) Clemons, step-sister Betty Clemons-Rush, sister-in-law Janice Grippin; brother-in-law Gary (Elizabeth) Searles; sixteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and many, many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends all of whom she loved and remembered regularly. 

 A graduate of Horseheads High School (1954), Jeanwas certified as a CNA and employed by home health agencies, retiring from Divine Providence Hospital in Williamsport, PA. But retirement did not stop Jean from caring for others. A caregiver at heart from an early age, Jean will be remembered for her kind words and actions, dedication to and encouragement of others to be positive and grateful in every situation. She was quick to respond to the needs of others, doing the business of her Lord. Jean enjoyed being involved in various capacities of her church, wherever she lived.

 The family wishes to thank the staff of her medical teams at Upstate and Crouse Hospitals for their care and kindness.

 A loving wife, mother, sister and friend, Jean will be greatly missed. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Condolences and memories may be shared at https://www.mathewsonforani.com

 In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be directed to: Al Todeschini Pancreatic Cancer Fund, Upstate Foundation, 750 E. Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210. Make check payable to: Upstate Foundation, or to Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, 471 Mathews Rd, Boardman, Ohio 44512.

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