The 69-year-old New Stanton resident Tay R. Waltenbaugh went away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 17, 2023, with his family by his side. In Fort Benning, Georgia, Tay was born on September 9, 1954, to Edith (Jack) Waltenbaugh and the late D. Roebling. A lifelong commitment to helping others and a spirit of selflessness are the legacies he has left behind.
At Juniata College, Tay earned a BS in Psychology and Sociology, capping out his academic career. Helping people, especially those in need, was a defining feature of his career. During his nearly three decades as CEO of Westmoreland Community Action, Tay was instrumental in the expansion of the organization’s budget, services, programs, and personnel. His lifelong commitment to helping people escape poverty was further demonstrated when he established Westmoreland Human Services, Inc.
Tay was a compassionate man who maintained a strong connection to his heritage and who treated everyone he met with the utmost dignity and respect. The Greensburg/Jeannette NAACP and the Mary Riegler-Chislaughi Friend of the Poor Pittsburgh Community Food Bank were among the groups who recognized his selfless work. In addition to being named one of Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 People in Central Pennsylvania and Beyond, Tay received an entrepreneurial excellence award from Seton Hill University.
Tay was a hard worker and an excellent provider for his family. Brenda L. (Krisfalusi) Waltenbaugh, his beloved wife of 38 years, three children (TR, Lane, and Kara Gardner), two grandkids (Jace and Kendall Gardner), and his sister, Enid, are among many who will remember him. The principles of perseverance and commitment that Tay taught his children will outlive his career and civic accomplishments.
Tay got his kicks from being outside, whether it was hunting, fishing, or using farm machinery to tend to his property. His ability to make even the most mundane meetings into unforgettable experiences is legendary, and Tay leaves an indelible mark of humor, kindness, and good times for those who knew him.
On Wednesday, friends and family are welcome to visit the LEO M. Bacha Funeral Home, Inc., 516 Stanton Street, Greensburg, from 1 to 8 PM. Reverend John M. Smaligo will perform a funeral service that begins Thursday at 10 AM at the funeral home.
A memorial service will be scheduled for a later time. Giving to the DASD Foundation at 982 N. Chestnut St. Ext., Derry, PA 15627, with “Tay Waltenbaugh” written on the note line, would be appreciated in place of flowers. For more information, visit www.bachafh.com.
