Melva Davern

Melva Beynon Davern, age 77, of Pittsburgh’s Greenfield neighborhood. Joined the angels in heaven with her husband, George Davern by her side on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Preceded in death by her parents John and Barbara Beynon; son, George Davern, Jr; and brother John, Beynon, Jr.  She is survived by her husband George, daughter Laura  Burdette (Jon Wesselman), Jack (Janice) Davern, Jason (Stacey) Davern, and Pam McCauley; siblings Joanne (Gerald) Thiry, William (Dolores) Beynon, Dolores (David) Himelright; 11 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild who loved their “Mimi” very much. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and very dear friends.

Melva enjoyed spending time at her vacation home in Conneaut Lake where she had many friends and hosted quite a few yard sales! During her lifetime she had many accolades, including her marriage to George P. Davern of 57 years; she led the charge in Pittsburgh’s POW-MIA Campaign, made a name for herself in the field of antiques and collectibles and was a published author of books on Figural & Novelty Salt and Pepper Shakers. She was a member and served as the first president of the Novelty Salt & Pepper shakers club. Melva was a jack of all trades with a variety of jobs in the community including working as a featured writer for the Squirrel Hill News. Melva had amazing wit and made friends in all walks of life. She loved to tell stories, write poetry and reflections. She absolutely loved to entertain company as an exceptional cook and had a knack for keeping people laughing! She always had room for guests at the table and in her home - Melva’s arms were always open. She had steadfast faith in God and was a member of St. Rosalia’s Church. Her family and friends will miss her deeply, but they can find comfort in knowing she is among the angels watching over us.

Family and friends will be received at Kanai Funeral Home, 500 Greenfield Ave, 15207 on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with a funeral mass at 10 a.m. on Friday is St. Paul Cathedral Parish-St. Rosalia Worship Site.

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