Vera L. (Pross) Lioy

It is with great sorrow to announce the passing of Vera Louise Lioy, 84, on November 5, 2025.

Born in Altoona, Vera was the daughter to the late James and Vera (Dean) Pross; she was lovingly raised by her grandparents, the late Edgar and Alberta Dean, who instilled in her the values and strength that would guide her throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Daniel Lioy. She was also predeceased by her brothers Robert and Richard Dean, and her sister Norma Wolf.

Vera’s greatest joy was her family. Her legacy lives on through her daughter, Kimberly Nakach of Port Charlotte, FL; her granddaughters, Ashley Nakach and Abigail (Mahki) Barnes of Altoona, PA; and her great-grandchildren, Wrennley McGowan, Evander and Etta Jane Barnes. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, and her beloved niece Sue Wolf, all of whom will treasure her memory.

A 1959 graduate from Altoona Area High School, Vera studied to be a concert pianist and loved singing. She was skilled at home renovations and fashion – approaching everything she did with confidence and determination.

Vera was President of the PTA at Stevens Elementary. She worked at Stanley Electric, Fashion Bug, and spent 17 years at Rolls Meat Market before retiring.

A member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, Vera and Danny volunteered during the annual festival.

Vera will be remembered for her warmth, independence, kindness, strength, and humor. She was an avid animal lover and enjoyed playing bunco.

Friends will be received from 5pm-7pm Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30am Friday, November 21, 2025 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, Altoona with committal to follow at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Vera’s memory may be made to The Central Pennsylvania Humane Society.

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