Brenda J. Magyar's Obituary
Brenda J. Magyar, age 81, of West Mifflin, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025. Brenda was born on November 16, 1943, in McKeesport, the youngest of nine siblings to the late Howard and Edith (Palmer) Widel.
Brenda is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, John E. Magyar, her loving children, Michelle Sammartino and her partner, Mike J. Fowler and Michael J. Magyar and his partner, Tammie Jones. She also leaves behind her grandsons, whom she adored, Anthony B. Sammartino and Vincent J.M. Sammartino, her brother, Chuck (Jan) Widel, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her siblings Albert Palmer, Howard Widel Jr., Helen Louise Dworek, Shirley Johnson, Barbara Tiberio, Ellen Ruth Widel and Janet Finney.
Brenda grew up in Glassport, PA, where she graduated from Glassport High School. Brenda spent most of her adult life making her home in West Mifflin, where she radiated joy and warmth to all fortunate enough to know her.
Brenda was a vivacious spirit with an infectious smile, whose outgoing nature allowed her to cultivate friendships across generations. She had a unique ability to connect with people, leaving a positive impact on their lives. An avid lover of music and dance, Brenda's lively personality was matched only by her excellent sense of humor, providing laughter and light-heartedness to her family and friends. She always made sure she had her signature lipstick on as she had a unique way of never needing a mirror to perfect it.
Brenda's greatest joy was her family. She was a wonderful wife and mother who was incredibly proud of her children. She cheered her daughter on her entire journey to receiving her RN and never missed a softball game her son was in. Her love only grew with generations. When her grandsons came along she provided unwavering love and support as a second caregiver, similarly never missing a football game or special event they had. A true homemaker, Brenda had a way in the kitchen with her family especially enjoying her homemade pies and stuffed cabbage.
Brenda was a selfless woman who would give the shirt off her back, and would never kill a bug, believing all things should be treated with kindness. She was a lover of animals, especially enjoying her own furry companions. Her kindness and selflessness touched the lives of everyone she encountered, and she instilled in her family the deep values of strength and resilience reminding them that they could overcome any challenge life brought their way.
Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. A funeral service in honor of Brenda will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 11:00 am in the chapel at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Jefferson Memorial Park.
Brenda's family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff at Bridges Hospice for their compassion and care throughout this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Brenda may be made to Bridges Hospice at https://www.bridgeshospice.org/donate.
To leave online condolences please visit www.jeffersonmemorial.com
What’s your fondest memory of Brenda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Brenda?
Share a story where Brenda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Brenda you’ll never forget.
How did Brenda make you smile?
