Nadya Keenan 1944-2025

She was born Sept. 9, 1944, in Youngstown, the daughter of Paul and Maria Yarmchuk Zaitzew. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1962.

After graduating from Kent State University, she spent two years in the Philippines with the Peace Corps. Upon her return, she taught in the Youngstown City Schools before becoming employed at the Columbiana County Mental Health Center.

She was a well-known track and volleyball official, working in the state for over twenty years. In addition, “Neddie” crocheted hundreds of baby blankets for Project Linus. She was also a life member of MENSA.

She was preceded in death by her parents as well as siblings Harry Zaitzew, Nellie Bevilaqua, Helen Bilas and Vera Houck.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, John Gary; children, Michael (Kelly) Keenan of Export, Pa., Jeffrey (Daijah) Keenan of Phoenix, Arizona, and Helena (Brian) Chambers of Canfield; grandchildren, Star, Ryley, Braeden and Madden; and great grandchildren, Kira, Ellie and Jack; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

At Neddie’s request, there will be no calling hours or services.

She chose to donate her body to the Northeast Ohio Medical School.

It was also her wish that any memorial funds be sent to Hospice of the Valley or Planned Parenthood of the Mahoning Valley.

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