Roberta "Bertie" Rager

Roberta Ruth Rager of Lincoln Borough, lovingly known as Bertie, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on Christmas Day in 1939 in Farmont, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Eugene and Nora (Bucklew) Winemiller and grew up in Fairmont alongside her siblings. Her happiest memories came from life on the family farm, which gave her a love of the land and instilled in her the values of hard work, resilience, and faith.

Roberta’s greatest love was her late husband, Amos Leroy “Toby” Rager, who preceded her in death on January 19, 2019. Their love story began at a square dance, where Toby was the caller. They married young and built a life together in Pennsylvania, sharing a passion for horses, antiquing, fixer-upper houses, and even tinkering with computers. Toby lovingly called her “Bert,” and together they created a legacy of love, laughter, and family.

She is survived by her children, Amos L. (Tina) Rager, Jr. of Jeannette, and Sherry (Timothy) Matthews of Monessen; her cherished grandchildren — who lovingly called her Nan — Raymond (Amber) Matthews of Pittsburgh, Michele (Robbie) McQuaide of Fredericksburg, PA, Charlie (Ashley) Matthews of Belle Vernon, Mandy (Chad) Rapp of Delmont, Frankie (Alicia) Rager of Jeannette, Amos “Toby” (Rachel) Rager III of Ruffsdale, and Lisa (Kandyce) Siegel of Jeannette, PA. She was the proud great-grandmother of Xander, Julian, Timothy, Evelyn, Greyson, Izaac, Brody, Mia, and Frankie, and was preceded in death by her beloved great-granddaughter, Lily Ann.

Roberta is also survived by her siblings Larry (Mary Ann) Winemiller of White Oak, Elaine Lewis of Perryopolis, Iris Reusch of Washington, and Rosalie (Jim) Kuhn of Copley, Ohio; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Charlie Winemiller, and sister-in-law Kay Winemiller.

A woman of strength and conviction, Roberta never shied away from speaking her mind. She loved deeply and fiercely—sometimes believing her opinion was the only one that truly mattered—but that determination was part of what made her so unforgettable. She was a talented quilter and crocheter, creating her own patterns and leaving behind beautiful blankets that will continue to warm the lives of those she loved. She found joy in singing gospel songs and treasured that her birthday fell on Christmas Day, reminding her always that she shared her life with Jesus.

Her life was a testament to enduring love, family bonds, and faith. Bertie lived life her way—strong, spirited, and full of love. Her family finds comfort knowing she is once again with her beloved Toby.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8pm Monday in Kegel Funeral Home, Inc. David P. Kegel, Supervisor 3560 Washington Avenue Finleyville, where services will begin at 11am Tuesday.  Memorial donations can be made to onetreeplanted.org.   

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