Retha A. Okernick

Retha A. Okernick, 54, of Niles, died Sunday, March 13, 2011 at St. Joseph's Health Center in Warren, after a lengthy illness. She was born May 28, 1956 in Morgantown, W. Va., the daughter of Robert and Shirley (Hamrick) Sponsler, and had lived in Niles for the past two years. She had previously lived in Austintown, Florida, and West Virginia.

A graduate of Morgantown High School, Ms. Okernick graduated from nursing school in Parkersburg, W. Va. She had worked as a nurse for North Side Hospital in Youngstown, and enjoyed gardening and reading.

Surviving are her parents, Robert and Shirley Sponsler of Johnston; two children: Kevin Okernick of Austintown, and Jessica Okernick of Niles; three sisters: Robin (Paul) Wells of Middlefield, Cynthia Smith of Bristol, and Martha (Kenny) Severt of Newton Falls; two brothers: Robert Sponsler of Johnston, and Nick Sponsler of Ashtabula; and two aunts: Rita Clary and Virginia Tate, both of Bristol.

Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2011 at Johnston Twp. Cemetery, where her urn will be laid to rest following the services. Material contributions may be made to the American Liver Foundation, 921 E. 86th Street, Suite 150, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland & Son Funeral Services Company, 271 North Park Avenue, Warren, Ohio 44481. Please visit www.mcfarlandfuneral.com to view this obituary and send condolences.