Lena Mae McCann

Lena Mae McCann, 88, of Dayton, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025. Born on December 23, 1936, to Pete and Myrtle Contella, Lena was the daughter of a large, loving Italian family. She was one of 14 Lena’s in her family tree and carried the legacy of her heritage with pride.

Lena worked at Anchor Glass for 32 years before retiring to pursue her dream of owning a bookstore. It was here that her love for reading, learning, and the written word flourished, becoming a space for others to find comfort and knowledge. She was also an avid collector of teapots and knick knacks, which she cherished deeply.

One of Lena's greatest passions was exploring her family’s genealogy, uncovering the stories of the past and preserving them for future generations. Her love for family knew no bounds, and she devoted herself to creating a warm and loving home, always ready to support and nurture those she loved.

Lena’s heart was especially filled with affection for her beloved cats—there was never a feline friend she couldn’t rescue or welcome into her life. Whether it was her quick wit or her loving spirit, Lena never failed to make an impact on those around her. She was known for her straightforward nature, always speaking with honesty and care, and was admired for her deep compassion and thoughtfulness.

Lena was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Myrtle Contella, her brother and sister-in-law, Vick and Toni Contella, her husband, Kenneth McCann, and her daughter, Vicki Charlene Gentile. Lena is survived by her daughter, Valerie Burleson; her daughter Vicki's husband, Joseph Gentile; her son, Kenneth McCann Jr.; her chosen son, Keith Byer; her grandchildren, Ryan Gentile and his wife Megan, Eric Gentile and his wife Stephanie, Kenneth Michael McCann III, Whitney Burleson, and Lindsay Burleson; her great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Rowan, Claire, and Emma; her nephews, Phillip Contella and Michael Contella; and her nieces, Jackie Lababera, Teresa Lababera, and Debbie Lababera.

Though her physical presence may be gone, Lena's legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and everyone she touched. Her life reminds us all of the importance of family, the power of compassion, and the simple, lasting beauty of a life well-lived.

Rest in peace, Lena. You will be forever loved and missed.