Holly Burnett-Hanley 1952-2023

Holly Jean was born Dec. 26, 1952, in Youngstown, the second child of Norma and Thomas Burnett. She was a 1970 graduate of Chaney High School and received her Christian education degree from Defiance College in 1974. She was a member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Youngstown.

Holly relished her role as aunt, bringing music, art, hugs, laughter and dancing to every occasion. Her life outside of family included various pursuits: church youth director, lead singer in a band, magazine publisher, published writer, public speaker, community activist and coordinator of the Mahoning River Education Project at YSU for local schools.

Holly published Speed of Sound magazine nearly singlehandedly in the late ’80s and early ’90s. She shared her memories of childhood in Youngstown in an excerpt in Christine Davidson’s book, “Mill Creek Park Remembered.” She was the co-editor of “The Ultimate Coloring Book of Mill Creek Metroparks,” that included 21 beautiful landmarks. She was a devoted member of the League of Women Voters of Greater Youngstown, and even served as co-president. Holly’s vibrant personality, caring nature and connections to the city made her a beloved person to many.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her mother, Norma Irwin Burnett; her husband, Mark Hanley, whom she married Aug. 27, 2005; sister, Marsha Hamilton; brother, James (Rebecca) Burnett; brothers-in-law, Kurt Kridler and Bob (Pat) Hanley; stepchildren, Zac and Mallory Hanley; uncle, the Rev. Bruce (Barbara) Irwin; aunt, Dorothy Macnaughton; nieces, nephews and cousins; and lifelong friends.

Holly was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Burnett; sister, Connie Kridler; stepson, Mitchell Hanley; grandparents, Dorothy and William Burnett, and Mabel and Robert Irwin; and by her loyal beagles, Buddy and Abby.

Holly has graciously donated her body for scientific research, in hopes she will help other patients and families faced with a frontotemporal degeneration diagnosis.

The family thanks the staff of Crandall Medical Center and Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate care.

A memorial to honor her memory will be held at a later date.

Holly had a fondness for Youngstown and all things it has to offer. If Holly touched your life and you want to honor hers, please donate in her name to a Youngstown organization of your choosing. Finally, do as she would, and tell those closest to you that you love them.

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