ELIZABETH JOCHUM

She was greeted in Heaven by her parents, Jacob “Jack” Jochum, Sr., and Evelyn Tralka Jochum, her brother, Jacob “Jack” Jochum, Jr., and her great niece and goddaughter, Evelyn Rose “Eva” Miller. Beth’s life was defined by an unwavering generosity, deep faith, and a quiet yet powerful dedication to those she loved.

Left to cherish memories that span a lifetime are her sisters, Deborah (Lee) McWhorter, Beckie (David) West, and Patti (Todd) Miller, and sister-in-law Karen Jochum.

Also left to cherish countless memories of their Aunt Beth are her nieces, Ellen (Joan) McWhorter, Jacqulyn (David) Obara, Kristen West, Gera Jochum, and goddaughter Maria Miller, and nephew and godson, Matt (Liza) Miller, great nieces Emily Obara, Julia Obara, and Stella Rounsley, great nephew Joseph Obara, and great nephews and godsons Matthew Miller and Miles Miller.

A lifelong lover of everything Pittsburgh, Beth spent many years there building a career as Vice President of Clinical Operations at the Central Blood Bank, and later, Director of Wheeling Hospital’s labs, where she earned the respect and admiration of all who worked alongside her.

Despite her demanding career, Beth always made time for her loved ones. Never married, Beth’s role as a second mother and godmother to her nieces and nephew was one of her greatest joys. She was the epitome of what it means to be a loving aunt, providing not just memories and gifts, but wisdom, care, and a listening ear.

Beth’s love for her family brought her back to Wheeling to care for her aging parents, ensuring their twilight years were filled with love, dignity, and comfort. From chauffeur to chef, gardener to personal assistant, she gave herself without hesitation, finding joy in the simple act of caring for others.

Her generosity knew no bounds. While she spoiled her nieces, nephew, great nieces, and great nephews, Beth was also deeply committed to giving to her community. She loved music and was a member of the Cathedral of St. Joseph’s church choir, giving both her time and talent in service to God. She was also generous with her resources. Each Christmas season, Beth would stop at Neely’s Grocery to give a significant lump of money to her brother-in-law Todd with one simple instruction: “help a customer who needs it to have a merry Christmas.” Beth leaves a legacy with what we now call the “Anonymous Angel Program,” as other members of the community have continued this holiday tradition.

In her final years, following a debilitating stroke in 2020, Beth’s family returned the care and devotion she had shown them throughout her life. Her sister and best friend Patti and brother-in-law Todd opened their home to her, converting their living room into a hospital room and quickly learning basic nursing skills. Their care, compassion, and love for Beth over the past five years is immeasurable. Beth was outspoken in her gratitude and love for Patti and Todd during this time, commenting often on how happy she was, despite her new disability. Patti and Todd, assisted by weekly visits and meals from Beth’s sister Debbie, enjoyed giving Beth the love and support she had always given them and their children, ensuring her final days were as filled with love as her whole life had been. Mere weeks ago, they hosted “sister lunch” at their house for the Jochum Sisters to celebrate Beth’s birthday.

Among the many caretakers of Beth who held a special place in her heart are Kayla Colebank, Autumn Foschia, WVU Wheeling Hospital Home Health, Dr. Monina Jao, and Dr. Angela Mouhlas. The family appreciates the support given by Valley Hospice.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 9:30 am until 11:30 am at Altmeyer Funeral Homes Wheeling Chapel, 1400 Eoff St. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:05 pm at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. Procession to Mt. Cavalry Cemetery for Beth’s Committal will directly follow.

Beth’s memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a beacon of kindness, a role model of generosity, and a testament to the power of unconditional love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Beth’s name to the Cathedral of St. Joseph Music Program by visiting https://www. tmcfunding.com/. Memories and condolences may be shared with Beth’s family at https://www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com/.