Regina “Jean” Marie Brak, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the Wheeling community, passed away peacefully at her home on October 24, 2026, at the age of 98. Born on August 26, 1928, in Benwood, West Virginia, Jean lived a life filled with love, dedication, and faith.
Jean devoted many years of her career as an operator for C&P Telephone and also worked as a clerk for Stone & Thomas department store in Elm Terrace. However, her greatest joy and pride came from her role as a homemaker. Jean’s heart was always at home, nurturing her family with warmth and care. Her home was a sanctuary, a place of love and comfort that reflected her loving spirit.
A woman of many talents and interests, Jean enjoyed playing Scrabble with her twin sister, Virginia, creating countless memories over the years. She was a gifted cook whose meals brought joy to those around her, and an accomplished crocheter. In fact, she will be shown in the beautiful dress she made herself for her daughter’s wedding — a true testament to her creativity and skill. Jean was also an avid bird watcher and a devoted fan of the WVU Mountaineers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Pittsburgh Pirates, often found glued to the television rooting for her favorite teams.
A devout Catholic, Jean was a longtime member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, where her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found comfort and strength in her spirituality, inspiring those who knew her by example.
Jean is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Anna Brayec Yankovich; her devoted husband of over 60 years, Alphonse Brak; her twin sister, Virginia Subasic; and her brother, Richard Yankovich. She is survived by her loving children, Pam (Robert) Games, Mark Brak, and Robert Brak; sister-in-law, Phyllis Yankovich; grandchildren Angela Spurloch, Alysia Work, Natalie Criss, Noah Brak, and Gretta Brak; along with several great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love.
Services to celebrate Jean’s remarkable life will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger Street, Wheeling. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, with Father Jeeson presiding. Entombment will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery Garden Mausoleum.
Memories and condolences may be shared with Jean’s family at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.tmcfunding.com.
Jean’s life was a shining example of love, perseverance, and grace. She touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire her family and friends for generations to come.
