Kathleen "Kay" A. Bestider, 83, of Harding, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township. She was married to James George Bestider for 59 years, until his passing on April 22, 2017.

Born in Fairmont Springs, she was a daughter of the late John and Marion Hoover Yankoski. In her younger years she worked as a nurse at the former Mercy Hospital in Wilkes-Barre. From there went on to private duty nursing. Caregiving came naturally to Kay as she was extremely compassionate and loving to her patients. She was an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, and a friend to confide in. Kay had a special place in her heart for children and especially children in need. She loved the children of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital and held this organization near and dear to her heart by sponsoring them monthly.

Kay was a loving, dedicated, mother, grandmother and friend. To her children Kay set the example of being a true confidant, teacher, inspiration, wise, courageous, and most importantly the gift only mothers can bring. They were able to talk and confide with her about everything in the best and worst of times. To her grandchildren she was "home" warm and loving and would light the room with her smile. To her children's friends from the neighborhood, she always had an open door, open fridge, and witty fun-loving comments. She was from a special time "old school love, prideful and honest." She would listen and was always there for family and friends. She loved music, food, dancing (even in her wheelchair), shopping, yard work, decorating her home, and all desserts, especially "all things" chocolate.

Kay left an ever-lasting impression, to know her was a gift, to be around her was a blessing, to be a part of her family was an honor. She is irreplaceable and will be greatly missed. She always would say she would be with her "loving hubby." We know thats where mom is now. RIP MOM. XOXOXOXOXOXO

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the medical and clinical staff at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, especially the intensive care unit staff for their compassionate care given to Kay and her family.

She is survived by her sons, James and wife, Rhodica, Michael, Brian and Mark; daughters, Brenda Schrieber and fiancé, Al Nalachi and Sheri and fiancé, David Pisack; beloved grandchildren, Billy Schrieber and Olivia Bestider; brother, Joseph Yankoski and wife Kyle; sister, Deborah Yankoski Lynch; Uncle Paul and Aunt Dory Hoover, several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Greg Mantione.

According to Kathleen's wishes, her funeral and interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street, Pittston (Port Griffith).