Mary J. Ceci 1965-2025

Mary was born Nov. 4, 1965, in Youngstown.

Mary lived with a vibrant zest for life, which shone through her many passions.

A 1984 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School, Mary was a proud member of the speech and debate team, where she honed her impeccable debate skills and advocated for others to use their voices and talents to make a difference.

Her faith was a guiding force, inspiring her to volunteer at church and work at Catholic Television Network of Youngstown (CTNY). Mary was also a proud participant and supporter of the Lake to River Girl Scouts Camp for the Orthopedic Handicap.

She found joy in her garden, where her green thumb produced delicious vegetables season after season. A gifted photographer, Mary had a keen eye for capturing special moments and proudly entered award-winning images in the Canfield Fair.

She was also a devoted football fan, especially the L.A. Rams, never missing a chance to cheer on her team or host a Super Bowl party.

Mary was a valued member of the Accessible Home Services family, actively contributing her ideas and insights. Her thoughtful suggestions helped shape the care experience for others and she built lasting relationships, making friends and caregivers feel like family.

Mary’s sharp wit and unforgettable one-liners brought laughter to everyone around her. Her playful spirit was evident in her unique collections of hats, monkeys, gargoyles and all things Grinch — each piece a reflection of her humor and unique personality. Like the Grinch himself, Mary believed the greatest gifts were kindness and love, which she gave freely to those fortunate enough to know her.

She was the cherished daughter of Mavis Carney Ceci and the late Peter Ceci. Mary was a devoted sister to four sisters, Karen (Dave) Barwick, Amy (Hoss) Mirzai, Molly (Emir) Salem and Abbey Ceci; a sister-in-law, Peggy Ceci; and five brothers, Rick (Victoria) Ceci, Michael (Holly) Ceci, Peter (Lindsay) Ceci, James (Mary) Ceci and Dan (Brittany) Ceci. Each of these relationships was marked by the profound love and support that defined Mary’s family ties.

Mary’s warmth extended to her nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. Each of them shared a remarkable relationship with Mary and their bonds will never be forgotten. She leaves behind Joseph Kim, Kaleigh Ceci, Maria Mirzai, Kyah Ceci, Gabrielle Ceci, Nicolina Mirzai, Michael Ceci, Victor Salem, Kyleigh Kuebler-Ceci, James Ceci, Wyatt Ceci, Roman Salem, Juleigha Ceci, Gemma Ceci, Leighvi Ceci and Leighanna Ceci.

In addition to her immediate family, Mary leaves behind special individuals who played meaningful roles in her life, including Uncle Mark Ceci and Mary’s beloved dog, Remsen, who was also a constant source of companionship.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Peter Ceci, and nephew, Mark Ceci.

Friends and family may call 4 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave., Austintown, OH 44515.

On Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, there will be calling hours 10 to 10:45 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., at St. Blaise Parish-St. Joseph Church, 4545 New Road, Austintown, OH 44515.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel.

(special notice)