Wharton

Sally J. Wharton, 65, of Valencia, beloved sister and friend to many, died Wednesday after an extended illness.

She was born on Oct. 20, 1948, in Pittsburgh, the daughter of the late Jonette and Harry Wharton.

A 1966 graduate of North Allegheny High School, Sally was a valued member and treasurer of the NA Class of '66 Reunion Committee and took great pleasure in working with her fellow graduates.

A born leader with a multitude of interests, following graduation Sally worked as a DJ for several radio stations, drove for Yellow Cab, was a local store manager and for 20 years was an employee and later CFO for the Simakas Co. in Mars.

She was a longtime volunteer for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council, where she helped countless women from South Korea assimilate and improve their English language skills. As a member of MENSA, Sally held various offices and served as president for several terms for her Western Pennsylvania group. As a devoted and adoring “mother” to many ferrets over the years, Sally was an active supporter of various ferret rescue groups.

Her zest for life led her to travel the globe, from Iceland to Australia and from New Orleans to Sturgis, with an appreciation of the many cultures and people she encountered along the way.

She is survived by her sister, Minette W. Thompson of Evans City, and her four ferret “children.”

WHARTON — A memorial service for Sally J. Wharton, who died Wednesday, March 26, 2014, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at the McDonald-Aeberli Funeral Home, 238 Crowe Ave., Mars.Memorial contributions can be mailed to Hide E Hole Ferret Rescue Inc., 145 Margaret St., Pittsburgh., PA 15210 or via PayPal at rescue@hide-e-hole.com.Directions and condolences are available at www.mcdonald-aeberli.com.