Betty L. DeMarco 1933-2026
STRUTHERS — Betty L. DeMarco, a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, at the age of 92.
Born Dec. 20, 1933, in Charleston, W.Va., a daughter of the late Claude E. and Bessie Lee Douglas Graham.
Betty was the daughter of deaf parents, which necessitated her to become fluent in sign language. Her ability to communicate beyond words enriched her relationships throughout her life.
After graduating from East High School, she married the love of her life, Ed DeMarco. During their marriage, they lovingly welcomed seven children. After Ed passed away in 1972, Betty successfully raised her family as a single parent. Betty also spent many years working as a bakery manager at Holowach’s in Cornersburg.
Betty’s greatest joys were her loved ones, especially her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Betty loved babysitting for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she attended as many recitals, athletic and school events, and family functions as she possibly could.
Betty was an avid reader and enjoyed canning, cooking, her standing Friday hair appointments and traveling to Florida, where she created an extended family of friends. Anyone who knew Betty was all the better for it.
Her legacy lives on through her children, Roan Craig of Canfield, Jean Sotlar of Lowellville, Nancy (Michael) Swiatkwich of Cortland, Edward (Jan) DeMarco of Campbell, Lori (Bob) Ficorilli of Poland and Valerie (Jeff) Jones of Boardman; her daughter-in-law, Judy DeMarco of Hubbard; 18 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and her sisters-in-law, Patricia Graham of Canton and Nancy Kuivila of Boardman.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Edward P. DeMarco, whom she married Aug. 18, 1951, and passed away Oct. 11, 1972; her son, Anthony DeMarco; two sons-in-law, Ken Craig and Frank Sotlar; and her brother, Claude E. Graham Jr.
Betty’s wishes were to have her services private for her family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sanctuary Hospice, 6715 Tippecanoe Road, Suite B, Canfield, OH 44406.
Professional arrangements were handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel.
(special notice)