Della Ballas' Obituary
Della Ballas, 82, of Pittsburgh, passed away on February 18, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.
Della was born in Munhall, PA to parents Edward and Grace Humanik. Once she graduated high school she enrolled in West Penn Nursing School where she completed her hands on training at West Penn Hospital. She showed great care and compassion in the newborn unit, caring for the hospital's smallest patients.
Della was a devoted grandmother, always incredibly involved in the lives of her grandchildren. Whether it was a wrestling match, baseball, hockey, volleyball game or a dance recital, she was there rooting for her grand kids every step of the way. She loved her grandchildren more than anything and she showed her love in a variety of ways: spending special time with each of them on lunch outings or spoiling them with toys and gifts.
Della had a sparkling, outgoing personality. She took part in several social activities such as Bingo and bowling. She also loved going to the beach and shopping for deals. Her support of Pittsburgh's teams was unwavering. She loved to cheer on the Steelers, Penguins and especially the Pirates (regardless of if they were winning.)
Della was a loving wife of 62 years and childhood sweetheart to George Ballas; a devoted mother to Sherrie Petti (Joe), George Ballas (Michelle); cherished grandmother to Rachel Mancino (Mike), Emme Petti, Joey Petti, Zach Ballas, Nate Ballas, and Jake Ballas; cherished great-grandmother to Mila Mancino and Leo Mancino; and sister to Donna Bowling.
She is preceded in death by her parents Edward and Grace Humanik (Barteck) and her sister Darlene Opalko.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00PM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home 301 Curry Hollow Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236. All are welcome to attend. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held February 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Nativity Church, Our Lady of Hope Parish 5811 Curry Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
What’s your fondest memory of Della?
What’s a lesson you learned from Della?
Share a story where Della's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Della you’ll never forget.
How did Della make you smile?
