Josephine Prebish
OBITUARY
Josephine, known to all as “Helen” was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on October 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on May 28, 1937, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Josephine was the cherished daughter of Peter Gubanics and Jean Wolchak Gubanics.
Josephine’s life was a tapestry woven with love, devotion, and resilience. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Elaine Stefanko, her brother Joseph Gubanics, and her husbands, Walter William Lewis and Joseph Prebish. She now leaves behind a legacy of love in her surviving family: her son Walter Lewis, daughter-in-law Barbara Lewis, her grandchildren Joy Lynn Gaddis and her husband Taylor, Hope Catherine Lewis, and Bo Connor Lewis, her great-grandson McCoy Charles Gaddis, as well as her brother John Gubanics, and sisters Barbara Serge, Joan Zippittelli, Dorothy Walsh, and Rosalie Zychal. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will forever treasure her memory.
Her life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of family. Josephine was a graduate of West Scranton High School and later earned a certificate for night school to continue her career growth. She began her career as a licensed cosmetologist, a profession in which she thrived for many years. Her love for learning led her to continue her education, eventually becoming a Customer Service Representative for Herff Jones, where she worked until her retirement.
A woman of deep faith, Josephine was a devoted member of St. John’s Byzantine Catholic Church and actively participated in the St. Elizabeth’s Guild. She joyfully contributed to the church’s picnics and fundraising events, embodying a spirit of generosity and community service.
In 2014, Josephine moved to Georgia to be closer to her son and grandchildren, a decision that brought her immense joy. Known for her radiant smile, charisma, and warm presence, she was quickly embraced by the Georgia community, where she forged many cherished friendships while maintaining connections with her friends in Scranton. Her family was her world, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of her grandchildren, attending every event with pride and enthusiasm.
Josephine’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Manor Lake in Dawsonville, Georgia, as well as her doctors and their support staffs, for their compassionate care and support.
A visitation to honor and celebrate Josephine’s life will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at Savino Traditional Funerals and Cremation Care located at 157 South Main Avenue in West Scranton.
A Funeral Divine Liturgy will follow at 11 a.m. in St. John’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 310 Broadway Street, Scranton, with interment in Cathedral Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to Susan G. Komen in Dallas, Texas.
Josephine’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a beacon of light and love, and her legacy will continue to inspire her family and community for generations to come.
To offer an online condolence, visit www.NEPAfuneralhome.com.