Jane Salem, longtime nurse and matriarch, dies at 93

Jane Salem, a dedicated nurse and the central figure of a large, multi-generational family, passed away on November 1, 2026, according to a report from Duca Funeral Home. She was 93 years old. Salem, who lived in Latrobe but was originally from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, died at her home while surrounded by her family.

Born on December 27, 1932, in Everson, Jane Salem’s life spanned nearly a century of significant change in Western Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of the late George J. and Abla Nassar Farrah. After graduating from Scottdale High School in 1950, she pursued a career in healthcare, earning her nursing degree from the West Penn Hospital School of Nursing in 1953. Her professional life in nursing was a defining element of her character, though she frequently expressed that her most cherished role was the one she held within her own home while raising her children.

Beyond her marriage, she was a pillar for a vast network of relatives, serving as a mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and godmother. Her personal philosophy often centered on the importance of living one's values and maintaining respect for others, particularly by remembering one's roots and the people who provided support along the way.

A legacy of family and faith

The impact of Salem’s life is reflected in the extensive family she leaves behind. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jacob George Salem, and five daughters: Linda Salem Ganson of Ashburn, VA; Donna Salem Smith of Columbia, SC; Brenda Salem of Latrobe; Lisa Salem Salamon of Redlands, CA; and Barbara Salem Putignano of Murrysville. Her legacy extends to her sister, Dr. Peggy Farrah of Latrobe, and a large group of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In her private life, Salem found simple joys in the company of her loved ones, whether playing cards, shopping, going to the movies, or watching her favorite soap operas. Her spiritual life was rooted in her membership at St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church in Johnstown.

The family has expressed their gratitude to the medical professionals who assisted in her care, specifically mentioning Dr. Geneen Dashefsky, Melinda Fowler, PA-C, and the staff at WVU Latrobe Hospital.

Service arrangements and memorial tributes

Funeral services for Jane Salem are scheduled to take place in Latrobe. Friends and community members may gather for visitation on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Frank Duca Funeral Home, Westmont Chapel, located at 1622 Menoher Blvd. Trisagion Prayers will be held during the visitation at 6:30 PM.

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A formal funeral service will follow on Saturday, November 7, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM at Duca Funeral Home. The service will be officiated by the Very Rev. Father Donald Shadid, with interment to follow at Grandview Cemetery.

In recognition of her life and the causes she valued, the family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be directed to the following organizations:

American Diabetes Association: 100 West Station Square Drive, Suite 1900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
American Heart Association: 444 Liberty Street, Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
St. Mary’s Orthodox Church – Special Projects: 111 Alberta Avenue, Johnstown, PA 15905

She was preceded in death by her parents, her only son, Jay, her sister, Marian Farrah Tony, her brothers, Jacob “Sonny” Farrah and Robert “Bobby” Farrah, and her son-in-law, Gary Ganson.