Mary L. (Kanack) Lynagh

Mary L. (Kanack) Lynagh, 87, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, surrounded by the love that she so faithfully gave throughout her life.

She was born on October 24, 1938, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the daughter of Lawrence and Angeline (DiMare) Kanack. A 1956 graduate of Ashtabula High School, Mary’s life was rooted in faith, family, and quiet strength. On August 29, 1959, she married her one and only true love, Larry G. Lynagh. Together they built a beautiful life centered on unwavering devotion to one another and a deep, abiding love for their children, which remained Mary’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment.

Mary’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her in all that she did and shaping the values she lovingly instilled in her family. A devoted member of both Mount Carmel Church and in the past at St. Andrew’s Church, she gave generously of her time and heart. She served as a CCD teacher and later as superintendent of the CCD program, faithfully sharing her love of God with generations of young people. In recognition of her dedication and service, she was honored with the Pope Pius X Award from the Youngstown Catholic Diocese.

Her faith was not only something she practiced, but something she lived each day—most especially within her home. Mary’s greatest happiness came from her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with her family and felt profoundly blessed by the gift of each child and grandchild entrusted to her by God. Her love was constant, her presence comforting, and her guidance rooted in faith and compassion.

In addition to her devotion to family and church, Mary served her community as the Denmark Township Clerk for 18 years until her retirement in 1998, and for four years as an accountant at the Jefferson Public Library. She was also actively involved in her children’s lives through the Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, classroom volunteering, and PTO, always placing her family at the center of her world.

She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 67 years, Larry; her children, John (Terri) Lynagh, Joan (Tom) Gears, James (Jennifer) Lynagh, and Jeanne (Charles) Kochevar; and her cherished grandchildren, Chris (Jenna), Richard (Samantha), Andrew (Kayla), Katie (Adam), Thomas (Kaitlyn), Sean (Claire), Michael (Julia), Noah, Ethan (Maddie), Megan (Fitz), Johanna (Cody), Emily, and Madeline; along with nine great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her sister, Larraine Britton; her beloved dog, Rip; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Stephan Kanack.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Fleming-Billman Funeral Home, 49 West Jefferson Street, Jefferson, Ohio, from 5:00–7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Peace (Mount Carmel) Church, 1220 East 21st Street, Ashtabula, Ohio, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Jefferson Care Center, Bella Care Hospice, and the Jefferson Emergency Rescue Squad for the compassionate care given to Mary.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s name to Bella Care Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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