Helen "Jean" A. Gusic

Her parents were William and Charlotte Schmidtke and she was born in Trotter, Pennsylvania.

Born in an era of profound change, Jean lived a life defined by service, strength, and generosity. A lifelong nurse, Jean began her remarkable career during World War II, providing care and compassion as a young US Army nurse in Japan and the Philippines. Her work during those difficult years shaped a legacy of empathy and resilience that would echo throughout the rest of her life. As a graduate of the West Penn Hospital School of Nursing, she shared her knowledge through teaching nurses aid courses to young women at Waynesburg’s Youth Development Center. She also served as nursing supervisor at the Curry Home (nursing home) in Waynesburg.

Jean’s commitment to helping others extended far beyond her professional years. In her retirement, she was a devoted volunteer at The Cherry Door, a beloved second-hand store in Waynesburg, operated by the Waynesburg Hospital Auxiliary, where her kindness and dedication touched the lives of many in her community. Anyone who ever walked through the door, felt her joyful presence and laughter.

She shared a beautiful life with her late husband, John R. Gusic. Together, they found joy in travel and adventure, particularly in attending Elks Club events and conventions across the country—moments that deepened their bond and filled their years with laughter and companionship. Together, they volunteered at Waynesburg Hospital (UPMC Greene) and delivered Meals on Wheels.

Jean's greatest pride and joy, however, was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Linda Winegar (Jim), David Gusic, and John (Bill) Gusic (Susan); her grandchildren: Dan Gusic, Alena Delio (David), Amanda Mearsheimer (Max), Jonathan Gusic (Emily), and Sarah Eno (JC); and her great-grandchildren: Maddy and Mila Gusic (Jonathan and Emily), Anthony Gusic (Jonathan), and Jean Mearsheimer (Amanda and Max), who carries on her namesake and feisty spirit. She was the last of her immediate family.

Deceased are her late husband, John R. Gusic and her brother, Carl (Bud) Schmidtke.

Jean’s legacy is one of strength, joy, boundless generosity, and a deep devotion to family and community. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege to know her.

A memorial will be held in celebration of her extraordinary life on Monday, July 21 at Behm Funeral Home in Waynesburg, with visitation from 11:00am-1:00pm, followed by a service at Behm’s Funeral Home. A private burial will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Waynesburg. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made, in her honor, to a local volunteer organization or Hospice program of your choice. Condolences may be expressed online at www.behmfh.com.