Maryann Yurko, a cherished resident of Swoyersville, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by her loving family. Her husband, Richard R. Yurko, was by her side, reflecting the deep bond they shared over their 55 years of marriage, celebrated on July 18, 2025.
Born on March 20, 1948, in Kingston, Maryann was the daughter of the late Andrew Barilla Sr. and Margaret Drugotch Barilla. She was the youngest of three siblings and a proud graduate of the last class of the former Swoyersville High School in 1966. Following her passion for beauty, she attended Empire Beauty School in Wilkes-Barre, earning her cosmetology certification in 1967. For over 40 years, Maryann operated a beauty parlor from her home, becoming a beloved figure in the community.
Maryann’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of Saint Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church, where she actively participated in church activities. Her love for the community extended to her passions, particularly her loyalty to Penn State, where she held football season tickets for 23 years.
Beyond her professional and religious commitments, Maryann found joy in tending to her flower garden and maintaining a home that was both inviting and immaculate. Family vacations to the Caribbean and Ocean City, Maryland, were particularly special to her, creating lasting memories that she cherished dearly.
Maryann was not only a devoted wife but also a loving mother and grandmother. She took immense pride in her daughters, Kyra and Krisa Yurko, as well as her grandson, Jacob Botek. Her family described her as the heart of their household—a source of unwavering support and love.
Maryann is survived by her husband, Richard, their daughters Kyra and Krisa, her grandson Jacob, and her brother, John Barilla, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Magistrate Andrew Barilla Jr., sister-in-law MaryAnn Charnetski Barilla, and niece Lisa Barilla.
In honoring Maryann’s memory, a viewing will be held on February 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Wroblewski Funeral Home, Inc., located at 1442 Wyoming Avenue, Forty Fort. Following the viewing, Panachida Services will take place at 7:00 PM, led by Reverend Father Andrii Dumnych. The Office of Christian Burial with Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on February 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM in her church, with interment to follow at Denison Cemetery in Swoyersville.
The family requests that floral offerings be omitted and encourages memorial contributions to be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, located at 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507, or to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.
Friends and family are invited to share memories or messages of condolence through the funeral home’s website or Facebook page. Maryann Yurko will be deeply missed by all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and community spirit.
