Alan J. McElhinny

Alan J. McElhinny, of West Homestead, entered peacefully into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the age of 87. Born on August 12, 1938, he spent his childhood years in Lincoln Place before moving to West Mifflin and then West Homestead where he spent the remainder of his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lawrence and Amelia; brother, Donald (Bertha), brother, Richard; nephew, Larry (survived by Sue), and brother-in-law Walter Napierkowski (survived by Pat).

Alan was the loving husband of 63 years to Joan (Napierkowski) and a devoted father of Sue Kelly (Brian), Steve (Tracy), Jill, Linda, and Diane Coury (Ken). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Erin, Lauren, Ryan, and Corinne Kelly, Julia and Natalie McElhinny, and Leah and Noah Coury. He is also survived by his caring nieces, Maureen Thornton (the late Joe), Carol McMorris (Donald), Janet Sculimbrene (Michael), and Eileen Kress (Ray), in-laws Lorraine Hayward (Robert) and Michael Napierkowski (Maryann) in addition to many extended family members, friends, fellow parishioners, and neighbors who appreciated his kindness, generosity, and friendship.

Alan graduated from Carnegie Tech and then proudly served his country in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he went on to enjoy a long and successful career as a Systems Engineer with IBM, where his intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

A faithful Catholic, Alan was a devoted member of St. Therese Church, where he regularly attended Mass and generously shared his time and talents as a lector and member of Parish Council for many years. His commitment to serving others extended beyond the parish as a dedicated board member of Carnegie Library of Homestead.

His engineering mind served him well throughout his life, especially when helping his kids with math at the kitchen table! He was the ultimate handyman, capable of fixing nearly anything and always willing to help family, friends, and neighbors with projects large and small.

Alan’s children and grandchildren brought him immeasurable happiness, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. He was deeply involved in their lives, rarely missing a sporting event, dance recital, school activity, or milestone celebration. Whether cheering from the sidelines, helping coach girls' softball, offering advice, or simply showing up with quiet encouragement, Alan was a constant and supportive presence.

Family gatherings were among his favorite occasions, especially when they included plenty of baloney wheels, Grandma Dip, laughter, sweets, and ice-cold drinks! He enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly sitting outside on a beautiful day and tending to his garden, which he cared for with great pride each year.

Alan's life was defined by faith, service, humility, generosity and love. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord. May he rest in eternal peace.

The family wishes to extend profound thanks and gratitude for the loving care provided by Alan’s doctors, especially Dr. Mitsuko Takahashi and Dr. Natalie Furlong, and the nurses and therapists of Anova Home Health Care Services and VITAS Home Hospice.

Friends and family received on Thursday, June 25 from 4-8 pm at George Irvin Green Funeral Home, Munhall with Mass of Catholic Burial at St. Therese of Lisieux Church, Munhall on Friday, June 26 at 12:30 pm. Interment at Calvary Cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Therese of Lisieux School in Munhall.