Annabelle L. Shuntich

VIENNA — Annabelle Lee Shuntich, 92, passed away peacefully after a brief illness, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, at Hospice House, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born May 18, 1932, in Franklin Township, Greene County, Pa., to Albert Kiger and Mercedes Morris Kiger Wageley, she grew up attending a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from Waynesburg High School in 1951. After completing secretarial school in Pittsburgh, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked as a secretary at the Pentagon.

In 1955, Annabelle met the love of her life, Peter J. Shuntich Jr., who was serving in the United States Air Force Security Service. They married June 9, 1956, at SS. Peter and Paul Church in Youngstown. In 1959, the couple settled in Vienna, where they built their lifelong home. Together, they raised three children and owned and operated Heights Superette in McKinley Heights for many years.

Known for her boundless love, she adored her family, especially her grandchildren. 

She is survived by her children, Karen McCreary (husband, Scott), and their children, Shannon and Evan (wife, Effie), David Shuntich (wife, Marijo), and their sons Aaron and Adam, and Gregory Shuntich, along with his daughters, Angela Werner (husband, David) and Alicia Burrows (husband, Joe); and her great-grandsons, Ellis and Jack. She also leaves behind cherished sisters-in-law, Wilda Kiger, Nancy Kiger, Susan Gilbert Kiger and Dianne Shuntich; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

A lover of gardening, reading and cheering on her favorite team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Annabelle was celebrated for her unmatched culinary talents. Her legendary cheesecake was the centerpiece of family gatherings, and her warmth, humor and lively spirit made her unforgettable to everyone she met.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband of 57 years, Peter, who passed Aug. 5, 2013; her seven brothers, Albert Roland Kiger, Charles Duane Kiger, Jerry Marlin Kiger, James Edward Kiger and infant triplet brothers; as well as her sisters-in-law, Jessie Jean Kiger and Patricia Bechdolt; and brothers-in-law, Richard Shuntich and Donald Bechdolt.

Her strength, kindness and vibrant spirit will be dearly missed but forever cherished by her family and friends. Her legacy of love lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to visitation 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at Higgins Reardon Funeral Home in Poland. A prayer service will be held 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, at the funeral home, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Church in Poland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Annabelle’s memory to Samaritan’s Purse.

“The Lord hath promised good to me, his word my hope secures; he will my shield and portion be as long as life endures.” — from “Amazing Grace.”

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.higgins-reardon.com.