Justine Chernikovich, 82, affectionately known as Tina, passed away Monday, Aug. 16, 2021, at her home surrounded by her loving husband and daughters.
She was born Dec. 15, 1938, a daughter of the late Joseph and Annetta Yarmel Laburda. She resided in the Hanover section of Nanticoke most of her life and was married to Paul Chernikovich, with whom she would have celebrated 60 years of marriage on Oct. 14.
Tina was employed by RCA in Mountain Top for many years and later became a housekeeper to many families who called her their own. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who loved her husband, children and grandchildren dearly as they were her greatest joy. A long-time member of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Tina served as the first female parish president. She was an integral part of all the fundraising, bazaars and church activities for many years. Her faith was unshakable, as she read her bible daily.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Dolores Sheldon; and brothers, Joseph and Bill Laburda.
Surviving are her husband, Paul; daughters, Kimberly Bonham and husband, Kevin, Bear Creek Village; and Karen Tomalis and husband, Gary, Dallas; grandchildren, Kaia Bonham and Braden and Adelyn Tomalis; a sister, Irene Miller, Bear Creek Twp.; brother-in-law, Joseph Chernikovich and his wife, Jamilia, Delaware; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Tina was known for her wonderful cooking and baking skills — particularly her paska bread — which she enjoyed sharing with family and friends. Tina delighted in the simple pleasures of life. These included watching the Mets on TV with her husband and family, sharing meals she had prepared for them and laughing often, as she had a gentle sense of humor. She was sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Tina was selfless, hardworking…
