Susan J. Mediate 1925-2024

Sue was born Aug. 19, 1925, in Hillsville, Pa., to Ralph and Carmella Lagozzo. Sue had two sisters, Mary Scali-Sant and Theresa Dattilo, and a brother, Joseph. At the age of 2, her family moved to Lowellville, where they opened a grocery store that would eventually serve as a gathering place to many. She graduated from Lowellville High School in 1942 and worked at a beauty salon shortly after. Five years later, she married her late husband, James Mediate. She had three children, the late Frank and Colleen, and Suzanne, who she is survived by, along with her spouse, Dan Leach.

She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Deborah Mediate; grandchildren, Chris (Leslie) Mediate, Nicole (Ray) McNally, Danny (Brandi) Leach, David (Anne) Leach and Dana (Jason) Crowe; along with a wealth of great-grandchildren, Christopher, Carson, Tyler, Reagan, Brady, Landon, Cecelia, Alex, Andrew, Declan and Siena, whose pictures filled her home and reflected her love for them.

A true family matriarch, Sue — known affectionately to all as “Nana” — had a love for her family that was only rivaled by her love of cooking. To her, family and food went hand in hand, a mindset that began in her early years helping her mother in the kitchen with Sunday pasta. There was no greater illustration of her love than that which she put into every plate she made, regardless of who it was for. No visit was ever complete without a meal, and even if you weren’t hungry, she would make sure your plate was full. When faced with whether or not to accept her offer of food or a second plate, she’d notoriously take it upon herself to make the decision for you — it’d be in front of you halfway through the question.

Her legendary fried meatballs, sausage and pepperoni rolls, and hot pepper bread were Sunday staples, always in high demand by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren alike. It would be remiss not to mention her Easter bread, another beloved tradition.

In the latter years of her life, Sue lived in Cleveland to be close to her daughter. Fiercely dedicated to her family, she was also a great friend to many and made them wherever she went, most recently while living at Emerald Village Independent Living. She attended numerous social events, including a senior prom where she was fittingly crowned queen of the dance.

Sue loved bringing people together, whether it was for a Sunday meal, a cup of coffee or her countless Christmas parties, which always ended with caroling — “Feliz Navidad” as the grand finale. She lit up every room she entered with her charm, quick wit and one-of-a-kind smile, and was stubborn in all the best ways. To her, age was simply a number.

Sue was a sister, a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother and a friend. She will be missed dearly.

The family will receive relatives and friends 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church, 131 E. Wood St., Lowellville, OH 44436, followed by an 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave. in Boardman. Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers to the family and support via phone call, text, email or visit the Book of Memories at www.rossifuernals.com.

(special notice)