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YOUNGSTOWN -- Marilyn DeSalle, 83, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family.
Marilyn was born on April 27, 1943, in Youngstown, to John and Mary Olejar.
She graduated from South High School in 1961, where she was a majorette and fire twirler. She went on to attend Youngstown State University and later worked at YETC as a career advisor. Marilyn is survived by her four children, Sharon (Eric) Edgerton of Indialantic, Florida, Robby (Kelly) Conti of Lake Milton, Ray (Kelly) Conti of Naples, Florida, and Nicole (Brian) Ulrich of Howland; a sister, Jean Erme of Hermitage, Pa.; a brother-in-law, Jerry Kernan (Amy) of Canfield; and a sister-in-law, Bernice Uehlinger of Streetsboro.
She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Chase (Allison) Foster of Fort Worth, Texas, Jena Foster of Los Angeles, California, Blake Foster of St. Paul, Minnesota, Matthew Conti of Youngstown, Brec (Erin) Conti of Cincinnati, Tyler (Alejandra) Conti of Westlake, Florida, Troy (Valerie) Conti of Plant City, Florida, Bailey Ulrich of Howland, Kristy (Mike) Elliott of Ravenna and Jeremy Richards of Mogadore. She will also be dearly missed by her seven great-grandchildren; her nieces and nephews, who were a constant source of love and support; and her many friends and members of the community.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her sister, Joanne Kernan; and her beloved husband, Ralph DeSalle Jr., a Youngstown police officer who was killed in the line of duty on June 13, 1984.
Marilyn's impact as a mother extended far beyond her own children and grandchildren. She provided unceasing comfort and support to her nieces and nephews after her sister, Joanne, left this life too soon to be with the Lord. She was a steadfast and loving presence to her friends and church community at One Spirit Family Christian Church. She was also a member of the Jabez Sisters. Her home always had homemade kolachi and pepperoni rolls, games to play, and a table to gather around. Marilyn's warmth and empathy made everyone feel welcome and safe, and her beautiful smile was a reflection of her kind heart. To her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, Marilyn's house always felt like home.
Marilyn's faith in God was the foundation of her life, giving her strength and grace through difficult times. She lived her faith through her extraordinary generosity, freely giving her time, love and support to others. Her kindness, compassion and generous spirit touched countless lives and remain an enduring part of her legacy.
A service celebrating the life of Marilyn DeSalle will be from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home. Calling hours will precede the service from 10 to 11 a.m., with the service immediately following, also at the funeral home.
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